by Growing Needs | May 23, 2025 | Food & Nutrition, Lifestyle & Wellness
It is common to hear that “There is no good or bad food, what’s important is that you consume food in moderation.” While this holds true, there are certainly some foods which are more beneficial in managing incontinence and some to best avoid.
A well-balanced diet plays an integral role in managing incontinence by supporting bladder health and reducing pressure on the urinary system. Here are some foods that are good to consume and some to consume less of.
The general rule of thumb when managing incontinence and boosting bladder health is to “Stay hydrated, eat fiber-rich whole foods, and avoid bladder irritants”.
Hydration is key – caregivers need to ensure that one with incontinence stays hydrated to keep the urine clear or pale yellow. This is especially so for patients with incontinence as dehydration produces more concentrated urine which then irritates the bladder and increases the frequency of bathroom visits.
Fruits as an added source of hydration – Opting for water-rich foods like cucumber watermelon, strawberries and apples can supplement hydration needs. For those who have sensitive bladders, avoid citrus fruits such as oranges and pineapples as it might irritate the bladder. Infuse the fruits into water to encourage your loved ones to drink water.
Incorporate fiber rich foods to prevent constipation. Consume high fiber food such as whole grains (oatmeal, brown rice, Quinoa), vegetables and legumes (lentils, chickpeas). Constipation can worsen incontinence by exerting undue pressure on the bladder.
Lean proteins such as chicken, tofu, fish, and eggs increase our protein intake which can strengthen muscles. Additionally, magnesium rich foods found in leafy greens, almonds (and even supplements) helps maintain muscle health which can aid in bladder health.
On the other hand, here are some foods to avoid or if you have to – consume in moderation as they can trigger bladder irritation or increase the frequency of which one has to visit the washroom.
Caffeine also keeps you alert which can interfere with sleep. Poor sleep quality can lead to one waking up at night to urinate.
Commonly found in coffee, tea and also energy drinks.
Alcohol also impacts the nervous system which can trigger confusing signals as to whether one really needs the toilet.
Artificial sweeteners can irritate the bladder and trigger urgency.
As a caregiver preparing meals for your loved ones or as someone managing incontinence, always remember to consult a healthcare professional when in doubt. These changes need not always be big bang changes but incremental changes are already a step in the right direction.
Growing Needs grew out of our own encounters with caring for our aging parents and reflecting on the Growing Needs that we ourselves would face as we advance in years. We hope to build a community that will learn, share and contribute towards caring for the growing needs of our loved ones.
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