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Published on: 3/5/2025

What Kind of Diet Is Recommended for Overactive Bladder (OAB)?

A diet for overactive bladder should include reducing salt, caffeine, and bladder irritants, along with a focus on balanced, healthy eating.

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Explanation

Managing your diet can help ease overactive bladder symptoms. Many experts suggest eating less salt since high salt intake may worsen bladder irritation. Cutting back on salt can help reduce swelling and make your bladder work better. It is also a good idea to limit drinks and foods with caffeine, like coffee or certain teas, because caffeine can stimulate the bladder and cause more frequent trips to the bathroom. Some people may also find that spicy or highly acidic foods, such as citrus fruits or tomatoes, can irritate the bladder further. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support your overall health while giving your bladder a break. This type of diet not only helps manage overactive bladder symptoms but also benefits your heart and other parts of your body. Keep in mind that each person may react differently to various foods, so it might be useful to keep a food diary to see which items trigger your symptoms. Always talk with your doctor or a healthcare provider before making big changes to your diet to ensure the changes are right for you.

(References)

  • Robinson D, Giarenis I, Cardozo L. You are what you eat: the impact of diet on overactive bladder and lower urinary tract symptoms. Maturitas. 2014 Sep;79(1):8-13. doi: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2014.06.009. Epub 2014 Jun 17. PMID: 25033724.

  • Willis-Gray MG, Dieter AA, Geller EJ. Evaluation and management of overactive bladder: strategies for optimizing care. Res Rep Urol. 2016 Jul 27;8:113-22. doi: 10.2147/RRU.S93636. PMID: 27556018; PMCID: PMC4968994.

  • Matsuo T, Miyata Y, Otsubo A, Mukae Y, Mitsunari K, Ohba K, Sakai H. Efficacy of salt reduction for managing overactive bladder symptoms: a prospective study in patients with excessive daily salt intake. Sci Rep. 2021 Feb 18;11(1):4046. doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-83725-9. PMID: 33603133; PMCID: PMC7893030.

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