At least 17 million people in the U.S. have an overactive bladder, reports the Cleveland Clinic. An estimated one out of six people over the age of 40 have symptoms of incontinence. An overactive bladder can be caused by a variety of conditions including neurological disease, pregnancy and childbirth. Incontinence can also be a sign of aging. Symptoms of an overactive bladder include the frequent and often urgent need to urinate. While no special diet exists for treating overactive bladder, eliminating certain foods may help relieve it's symptoms, notes the National Association for Incontinence, or NAFC.
Citrus Fruits and Juices
Citrus fruits and juice are acidic may exacerbate bladder symptoms. Citrus fruits like grapefruits, lemons, limes, clementine, mandarin, tangerine, and oranges can be irritating to the bladder and should probably be limited or eliminated, notes the Mayo Clinic.
While cranberry juice is a common home remedy for urinary tract infections, it is acidic and may irritate the bladder.
Spicy Foods and Tomato-Based Products
Foods that contain tomatoes like tomato sauce, tomato paste and tomato soups may intensify symptoms of overactive bladder, due to their acidity, according to the Mayo Clinic. Spicy foods like chili and salsa can increase urine leakage and should be avoided if they seem to worsen incontinence.
It's unclear why certain foods seem to worsen bladder control problems. A food item or type that causes problems for one person may have no negative effects on another, notes the Mayo Clinic.
Eliminating foods you suspect are bothering your bladder for several days, then gradually reintroducing them into your diet, may help you detect which items are affecting urination patterns.
Chocolate, Sugar and Sweeteners
Eliminating chocolate from your diet may help decrease symptoms of an overactive bladder. Chocolate contains caffeine which encourages the production of urine, according to RXlist.com.
Honey, sugar and artificial sweeteners can be bothersome to the bladder and should be eliminated or consumed in moderation if you are making frequent trips to the bathroom.
Beverages
Beverages that may aggravate bladder symptom include alcohol, coffee and tea, according to the Mayo Clinic. Caffeinated sodas and carbonated drinks, such as club soda and seltzer water, may also be irritating to the bladder.
