If you have a sensitive bladder, the key is to know which foods are more likely to irritate your bladder and which ones are more likely to soothe.
For example, excessive ingestion of acidity (soda) or alkalinity (coffee) irritates the mucous lining of the bladder and causes burning on urination. Many people who drink too much soda or coffee often complain of frequent “bladder infections.”
To keep sensitive bladders happy, avoid soda, coffee, alcohol, citrus fruits, tomato-based products, artificial sweeteners and spicy foods. Make sure your diet is full of these bladder-friendly foods:
Pears: They are good fall fruits that generally begin to ripen in September and sometimes October depending on the region. Pears are a good source of fiber and about 100 calories per serving.
Bananas: Typically available in CA grocery stores year-round, bananas are great as snacks, toppings for cereals or in smoothies.
Green beans: At about 31 calories per 1-cup serving, green beans will add some color to your plate. You can eat them raw, add them to salads or roast them with a little olive oil.
Winter squash: Do not let the name fool you. Winter squash are available in both fall and winter. Squash varieties include acorn, butternut, kabocha and spaghetti.
Potatoes: Need a bladder-friendly comfort food when the weather cools down? Try white potatoes or sweet potatoes (yams).
Lean proteins: Examples include low-fat beef, pork, chicken, turkey and fish. Especially when baked, steamed or broiled, they are unlikely to bother your bladder.
Whole grains: Quinoa, rice and oats are just a few examples of whole grains. They come in many varieties and are generally not expensive.
Breads: Overall, whole grain breads are bladder-friendly and a nice addition to meals. Whole grain bread is also great for delicious turkey sandwiches after Thanksgiving.
Nuts: Almonds, cashews, pecans and walnuts are healthy snacks and rich in protein.
Eggs: Also rich in protein, eggs are on several lists as one of the "least bothersome" foods for bladder conditions.