QUESTION: IT’S THE HOLIDAYS, AND IT’S HARD TO AVOID ALL THE GOODIES AND TREATS AROUND ME. DO THINGS LIKE SUGAR AND ALCOHOL REALLY MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN MY INCONTINENCE SYMPTOMS?

Answer: While it may not be what you want to hear, the answer is yes. Let’s start with sugar. Sugar (even the artificial kind) is a known bladder irritant – especially for those with overactive bladder – and too much of it can keep you running to the bathroom more times than you’d want during the holidays. Not only that, consuming too much sugar causes the kidneys to work harder to flush the sugar out of the blood, which can result in an increase in the amount of urine you’re holding onto – not a good thing if you already have a leakage problem. High blood sugar levels have also been shown to increase the risk of urinary tract infections.

And now alcohol. Alcohol is a diuretic. It increases urine production which can lead to increased frequency and urgency of needing to use the restroom. In addition, alcoholic beverages can stimulate the bladder, which can also lead to incontinence.

In short – both sugar and alcohol should be avoided as much as possible for those with incontinence or overactive bladder. If you do plan to indulge this holiday season, remember that moderation is key.

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