Chemicals, acids and irritants in foods affect the ability of the bladder to hold and eliminate fluids efficiently. The typical diet consists of foods and drinks that cause inflammation and irritation, known as acidic foods.
Whole foods rich in nutrients with a low acidic content improve the acid balance in the bladder. Foods irritate the lining of the bladder when the acid content is too high and should be avoided. Oranges, lemons, limes are examples of foods to avoid. Caffeine in foods such as chocolate acts as a diuretic causing the bladder to eliminate fluids quicker.
Refined foods and simple sugars also contribute to bladder irritation and should be eliminated. Today's diet typically includes too many convenience foods, and packaged items that contain a great deal of sugar, fillers and other irritants to the bladder.
Drinking too much fluid in a short amount of time overwhelms the bladder. This is compounded with the primary fluid intake being irritating to the lining of the bladder. Items such as caffeine, alcohol and refined sugars cause significant irritation and are consumed in large quantities.
This combination leads to further loss of control, pain and discomfort upon fluid elimination. Pure water is the best fluid to consumer for controlling the bladder. Drink water in small amounts through the day to prevent overwhelming the bladder. Determine your body's tolerance for other drinks by eliminating them from the diet and slowly adding them back.