Supporting Bladder Health Through Nutrition
Bladder issues (increased urgency, frequency and UTIs) can be very common in Parkinson’s disease (PD). While medications play a role in bladder management, nutrition and hydration can also make a huge difference. Let’s talk about what you can do to support bladder health!
Hydration: Finding the Right Balance
Many people with PD reduce fluid intake to avoid frequent trips to the bathroom, but dehydration can lead to concentrated urine, increasing bladder irritation and infection risk.
Best Practices:
Sip water throughout the day rather than drinking large amounts at once.
Choose water, herbal teas, or diluted juices over caffeine or alcohol - both having the potential to irritate the bladder.
If nighttime urgency is a concern, reduce fluids one to two hours before bed but stay well-hydrated during the day.
Key Nutrients for Bladder Function
Vitamin C – Benefits and Considerations
Vitamin C supports immune function and may help prevent UTIs, but high-dose supplements or acidic sources (like citrus fruits) can sometimes irritate sensitive bladders.
• Good sources of Vitamin C: Bell peppers, strawberries, broccoli and potatoes
Magnesium – For Bladder Muscle Control
Magnesium helps relax muscles, including those of the bladder, and may reduce spasms or urgency.
• Good sources: Pumpkin seeds, almonds, spinach
Omega-3s – Reducing Inflammation
These healthy fats can help support kidney function and may have an anti-inflammatory effect on the bladder (research isn’t super conclusive yet, but there might be some benefit).
• Plant-based sources: Flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts
Prebiotics & Probiotics – Gut Health for Bladder Support?
You read that right! We have some interesting research suggesting that gut health plays a role in urinary tract function. In 2013, a systematic review and meta-analysis published in PubMed examined the use of Lactobacillus probiotics for preventing recurrent UTIs in women and found they may be effective in reducing infection rates and serving as a potential alternative to long-term antibiotic use (PubMed link). While this research is promising, more studies are needed to confirm its benefits, especially in individuals with PD. Make sure you talk to your doctor or dietitian before starting any probiotics!
On the other hand, prebiotics - fiber-rich foods that nourish gut bacteria - can also support immune function and may help regulate bladder symptoms. Foods you can incorporate to support gut health can include:
• Fermented foods: Sauerkraut, kimchi, yogurt
• Fiber-rich prebiotics: Garlic, onions, oats and most fruits/vegetables
The Bottom Line
Staying hydrated and incorporating bladder-supportive nutrients into your diet may help manage common urinary issues in PD. Choosing water-rich foods, magnesium-containing plant foods, and gut-friendly prebiotics and probiotics can support both bladder and overall health. Small dietary adjustments can make a meaningful difference over the long run.
Want to learn more about urologic issues in PD?
Make sure you attend the upcoming talk this month on March 22!
Cheers!