A Diet to Minimize Incontinence

By Aileen M.K. Yee, M.D.
Urogynecologist

For women who suffer from incontinence — loss of bladder or bowel control — watching what you eat and drink could help your bladder. While there is no "incontinence diet," some foods and beverages can contribute to "leakage."

Alcoholic beverages; caffeinated beverages, such as coffee, tea and cola; citrus fruits and juices, such as pineapples, tomatoes and tomato base products; and carbonated beverages (even caffeine-free) are common bladder irritants for many people. These irritants can then contribute to frequency, urgency and urge incontinence. In addition, spicy foods, sugar, chocolate, corn syrup, artificial sweeteners, vinegar and vitamins B, C and E. Eliminating them — one at a time — might help. To identify irritants to your system, keep a log of what you consume.

Replace culprits with nonirritating substitutes: fruits like pears, apricots, papaya and watermelon; kava, and pero for coffee; non-citrus herbal teas; Ovaltine and carob for chocolate; fructose (Superose) for NutraSweet or Sweet'N Low; calcium carbonate buffered with calcium ascorbate for vitamin C; vitamin B6 instead of B; and the powdered form of vitamin E. In addition, there are over the counter products, such as Prelief, that is used to offset some of the various foods and beverages that may irritate your bladder should you decide to eat them. It's a common misconception that drinking less water prevents "accidents." Actually, limiting fluid intake irritates the lining of the urethra and bladder, which may increase leakage. Drink two to three quarts of water a day.

A healthy diet and regular exercise to control your weight can also help. Significant weight gain weakens the pelvic floor muscle. Eat fiber-rich foods. Constipation can make incontinence worse.

Kapi'olani Women's Center also offers various treatment options to help you regain control. Call 535-7000.

Aileen M.K. Yee, M.D., is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology and is a fellowship trained urogynecologist at the Kapi'olani Women's Center.

August, 2004 Women's Health Column