An overactive bladder is a very common and highly treatable condition, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Symptoms of an overactive bladder include an urgent and frequent need to urinate. While there's no a special diet to treat an overactive bladder, the foods you eat can have a significant impact on elimination patterns. The American Urogynecolgic Foundation says eating high fiber foods helps prevent constipation which can strain the pelvic floor muscle and lead to incontinence or overactive bladder.
Nuts, Seeds and Legumes
Foods that are rich in fiber include nuts, seeds and legumes, according to the Mayo Clinic. One cup of split peas, black beans or lima beans contains about 16 grams of fiber. A quarter cup of sunflower seed kernels or about 2 dozen almonds have approximately 4 grams.
Women should aim for no less than 21 grams of fiber daily while men should consume at least 30 grams, advises the Mayo Clinic.
Vegetables and Fruits
Fruits and vegetables may help relieve incontinence by promoting regular bowel movements and diminishing stress on the bladder.
Vegetables with the highest amount of fiber include artichoke and peas with around 9 grams per cup, reports the Mayo Clinic. Broccoli and turnip greens contain about 5 grams per serving.
Raspberries are one of most fiber-rich fruits with 8 grams per cup. One apple or pear with skin each have about 5 grams fiber.
Breads, Cereals and Rice
Fiber-rich foods such as bran cereal, oatmeal, whole wheat bread and brown rice may relieve undue stress on the bladder by helping to maintain bowel regularity, notes the Cleveland Clinic.
One cup of oatmeal contains 4 grams of fiber while 3/4 cup of bran flakes has over 5 grams. One slice of whole wheat bread has nearly 1 gram of fiber. A cup of cooked brown rice is packed with 3.5 grams.
Beverages
While people who suffer from an overactive bladder may be tempted to reduce their fluid intake it's not necessarily a good idea. Smaller amounts of urine may be more concentrated, promote the growth of bacteria and actually make you urinate more frequently, according to the National Association for Continence or NAFC. Limiting fluid intake can also lead to constipation.
Drinking six to eight 8 oz. glasses of water each day is generally recommended. It is best to spread the intake of fluids throughout the day rather than drinking large quantities in one sitting, advises the Cystitis Overactive Bladder Foundation.
