Tips for a Healthy Bladder
There are many reasons why it is important to keep your bladder healthy, but the primary reason is because a healthy bladder will lead to a normal, healthy lifestyle as you get older. There are a number of problems that can occur with the bladder as the body ages, but by following the tips for a healthy bladder early in life, you can do much to reduce these risks later on. Many of the tips for a healthy bladder are simply a matter of lifestyle or dietary changes that make it easier for the bladder to function as it should. Other steps include seeking your doctor’s advice at the first sign of a problem, before any real damage to this organ is done. By easing the stress and strain on the bladder earlier rather than later in life, you can do much to keep this organ healthy and reduce the possibility of problems later on.
You are what you Drink
Not only is the function of the bladder enhanced by getting enough fluids every day, the type of fluid that you choose to drink is a significant part of keeping this organ functioning at its best. Water is always the best choice, so make sure that you are getting your eight glasses a day. Other fluids may or may not act as irritants to your bladder, so it may take a bit of research to determine which substances you can safely drink, and which you should cut back on when following tips for a healthy bladder. The best way to do this is to stop drinking any fluid but water for a full week. Once your system has been sufficiently flushed out, you can begin adding other beverages, one at a time, to see which ones cause changes to your urinary tract habits. Known culprits include caffeine, alcohol and acidic fruit juices.
Do you Kegel?
Another good tip for a healthy bladder is to perform daily Kegel exercises for strengthening and toning the muscles of the pelvic floor. Keeping these muscles strong will greatly reduce the odds that you will suffer from incontinence or leakage later in life. To perform Kegel exercises, simply squeeze these muscles together and release. Three repetitions can be done in a row, with a ten second break after each set. You can repeat this exercise for ten or fifteen minutes every day to see significant results in the strength of these muscles. Kegel exercises are often taught to pregnant women because they can aid in the delivery process, as well as reduce the risk of urine leakage later in pregnancy.
Other tips for a healthy bladder include avoiding fluids two hours prior to bedtime, drinking cranberry juice regularly, and wiping front to back after eliminating. While some people believe that these tips for a healthy bladder can actually reduce the possibility of getting a urinary tract infection, others simply see these behaviors as generally healthy habits. If you do suspect that you might have a urinary tract infection, it is a good idea to see your doctor as soon as possible so that you can begin treatment. Symptoms of an infection can include frequent urination, burning while urinating or blood in the urine.
Your body depends on you and the habits you choose to keep it looking and feeling its absolute best. By following these simple tips for a healthy bladder, you will be on the road to a happier and healthier lifestyle.