1. Urinary Incontinence in Women Slideshow Pictures
2. Urinary Incontinence in Men Slideshow Pictures
3. Food & Drinks That Make You Gotta Go Slideshow Pictures

Medical Author:

Sandip P. Vasavada, MD

Coauthor:

Raymond Rackley, MD

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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The following lifestyle habits can help you maintain bladder and urinary health:

• Urinate regularly, and do not delay having bowel movements.



• Drink adequate fluids, 6-8 cups a day, to maintain a urinary output of 50 ounces per day, more if you are exercising or sweating due to hot weather.



• Limit alcohol and caffeinated drinks.



• If you smoke, quit.



• Maintain a healthy weight (body mass index <25).



• Eat a healthy diet low in fat, sugar, and salt.



• Limit consumption of spicy foods, chocolate, and citrus or acidic fruits.



• Exercise regularly. Kegel exercises (exercises that strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor) also help women strengthen muscles used during urination.

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