Diet for a Healthy Bladder: Care Instructions
Your Care Instructions
You can help your bladder stay healthy. Drink lots of water and eat a healthy diet. This may help prevent urinary tract infections and other bladder problems.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
- Drink plenty of water or other drinks that do not have alcohol. This will help flush bacteria from your bladder. If you have kidney, heart, or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk with your doctor before you increase the amount of fluids you drink.
- Limit or avoid alcohol. Alcohol can irritate the bladder. For some people, caffeine (found in coffee, tea, and cola drinks) also can irritate the bladder.
- Avoid constipation. This can help some people who have a problem with an urgent need to urinate a lot.
- Include fruits, vegetables, cooked dry beans, and whole grains in your diet each day. These foods are high in fibre.
- Get at least 2½ hours of physical activity a week. Walking is a good choice. You also may want to do other activities, such as running, swimming, cycling, or playing tennis or team sports.
- Take a fibre supplement, such as Benefibre or Metamucil, every day if needed. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
- Schedule time each day for a bowel movement. Having a daily routine may help. Take your time and do not strain when having your bowel movement.
Current as of: March 1, 2023
