Irritable Bladder Symptoms: Dietary Considerations

Women with irritable bladder symptoms, frequency, urgency and pain, can have worsening of their symptoms related to certain foods in their diets. Most of these cause acidification of the urine.

Infections should always be the first consideration. If it is not infectious, then at the first sign of increase in symptoms, start drinking 10 ounces of water mixed with 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Then drink 8 ounces of plain water every 20 minutes for the next 2-3 hours. Then repeat the 16 ounces of water with 1 teaspoon of baking soda in 4 hours. Women with a history of high blood pressure (Hypertension) or heart disease should check with their internist first, since baking soda contains sodium and can cause fluid retention.

The following foods are particularly irritating to some women’s bladders.
• All coffee and tea, including decaffeinated (Kava and Postum are less so)
• All citrus juices and fruits
• Sugar substitutes (saccharine and aspartame) Splenda seems to be okay
• Alcoholic beverages

The following can be irritating:
• Apples and apple juice
• Cantaloupe
• Chili and other spicy foods
• Cranberries and cranberry juice
• Grapes
• Guava, peaches, pineapple, plums, and other fruits**
• Strawberries
• Tomatoes and tomato sauce
• Vinegar
• B-Complex vitamins
• Vitamin C
**Apricots, papayas, pears, and watermelons are low-acid fruits.

For women who find the above bothersome to their bladder, but wish to have those foods in their diet, taking two or more Prelief, which helps to neutralize the acidity may be of help. This can be purchased over the counter.

I recommend that you eliminate all of the above for ten days to see if you get relief of your symptoms. If you get relief, then add back one food at a time and see what bothers you. If you do not get any relief, then drink and enjoy.

Learn More About Dietary Irritants Of The Bladder
If you are experiencing dietary irritants or would like to learn more about your options, schedule an appointment with me or other skilled physicians at Randolph OB/GYN using our online contact form or calling 704-333-4104.