Bladder health is one of those things that many people don’t think about until they are faced with an infection or concern. Preventative measures for bladder health, like so many other areas of our health, can be taken to help ensure a healthy bladder and that you don’t have to face those dreaded UTIs (or at least face them less often). Here’s what you need to know about how to keep your bladder healthy.
Go to the bathroom when you need to, and often
This might sound like a no-brainer – obviously, you are going to go to the bathroom when you need to. But how many of us will be in the middle of something and put off going to the bathroom until we’re done? If possible, try not to do that because holding your bladder for too long can weaken the muscles in that area. Try to make sure you’re going every 3 – 4 hours.
Take enough time to empty your bladder
Life is so busy it can feel like you don’t even have time to pee. Take the time, though, to completely empty your bladder. Rushing through the process of urinating can mean leaving urine in the bladder, making you more susceptible to infection.
Exercise regularly
Adding physical activity into your life on a regular basis can really help to prevent bladder problems. It also helps you to maintain a healthy weight, and it has been shown that adults who are overweight are more vulnerable to leaking urine.
Watch what you eat
This isn’t just about the weight factor; people with bladder issues have reported that certain foods will worsen these issues. Foods like artificial sweeteners, spicy foods, citrus fruits, and even tomato-based foods can exacerbate bladder issues.
Drink enough water
We have all heard it over and over: drink enough water. Since half of the human body is made up of water, it’s incredibly important that we drink enough water every day. The amount of water each person needs is based on their body mass, activity levels and any other health issues/concerns a person may have. Basically, though, you should consume enough water to feel you have to urinate every 3 – 4 hours.
Minimize alcohol and caffeine
If you have bladder issues already, consuming alcohol can make these issues worse. Additionally, drinks with a lot of caffeine (like coffee and tea) can cause frequent urination. Cutting these two things out of your life completely or reducing the amount you consume can help with the symptoms you’re experiencing.
Quit smoking
If you smoke, it may interest you to know that bladder problems are far more common among people who smoke than those who don’t. Smoking can also increase the chances of a person having bladder cancer. Reducing the amount you smoke, or better yet, completely quitting, can really help to keep your bladder healthy in the long run.
With a few small changes to your daily health routine, you can keep your bladder healthier and help prevent any long-term health concerns.
Contact Brant Arts today
Did you know that pharmacists can now prescribe medications for minor illnesses such as UTIs? If you have concerns about your bladder health, talk to one of our pharmacists today!
