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Diet for a Healthy Bladder: Care Instructions

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Your Care Instructions

You can help your bladder stay healthy. Drink lots of water and eat a healthy diet. This may help prevent urinary tract infections and other bladder problems.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

  • Drink plenty of water or other drinks that do not have alcohol. This will help flush bacteria from your bladder. If you have kidney, heart, or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk with your doctor before you increase the amount of fluids you drink.
  • Limit or avoid alcohol. Alcohol can irritate the bladder. For some people, caffeine (found in coffee, tea, and cola drinks) also can irritate the bladder.
  • Avoid constipation. This can help some people who have a problem with an urgent need to urinate a lot.
    • Include fruits, vegetables, cooked dry beans, and whole grains in your diet each day. These foods are high in fiber.
    • Get at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days of the week. Walking is a good choice. You also may want to do other activities, such as running, swimming, cycling, or playing tennis or team sports.
    • Take a fiber supplement, such as Citrucel or Metamucil, every day if needed. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
    • Schedule time each day for a bowel movement. Having a daily routine may help. Take your time and do not strain when having your bowel movement.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.