bladder irritants
There is no specific diet that can cure your bladder problems. However there are certain dietary habits that may affect your bladder.
Many people who have bladder problems reduce the amount of liquid that they consume hoping to urinate less often. Actually, reducing your liquid intake causes concentrated urine. Concentrated urine can be more irritating to the bladder lining increasing symptoms. Decreased fluids may also encourage the growth of bacteria leading to urinary tract infections.
Your urine may have an unusual odor if you have a bladder infection or after eating certain foods (asparagus). Certain medications such as pyridium may discolor your urine. If you have questions regarding these symptoms consult your physician or pharmacist.
Certain foods and beverages are thought to contribute to bladder problems and are classified as possible bladder irritants. The reasons are not always understood. You may wish to eliminate some of the following to see if your symptoms improve. Eliminate one at a time for at least a week to see how it affects your symptoms.
- coffee, tea – even decaffeinated (herbal teas are okay)
- caffeine – pop, medications containing caffeine, coffee, tea
- alcoholic beverages
- carbonated beverages
- citrus fruits and juices – oranges, grapefruit, cranberries
- tomatoes – tomato based products
- highly spiced foods
- sugar – honey – corn syrup
- chocolate – (contains caffeine)
- artificial sweeteners, especially aspartame
Water is the best beverage to drink. Ice in your water or a thin slice of lemon may make water more enjoyable to drink. Other non-irritating choices include apple juice, grape juice, pear nectar and peach nectar; blueberry is another great choice for antioxidants.