Polly Weston
Clinical Lead University Hospital of Morecambe Bay and Chair, ACA
Healthcare professionals are encouraged to support patients’ self-care. This includes coaching patients with simple lifestyle changes to prevent bladder and bowel dysfunction.
In this modern world of new technology, there are so many fast-moving advances in healthcare that support patients, more than ever, to stay well for longer. However, it is equally important to remember that simple lifestyle advice can prevent bladder and bowel dysfunction.
Lifestyle changes to prevent bladder and bowel dysfunction
The benefits of hydration can support our general wellbeing. In particular, it helps prevent symptoms such as urinary tract infections and constipation. Optimal hydration is achieved with fluids that don’t act as a stimulant to the bladder.
Caffeine is a natural chemical with stimulant effects which can irritate the bladder causing overactivity. By reducing the sudden urge to pass urine, you can also reduce the risk of a fall which becomes a risk when rushing to the toilet.
Optimal hydration is achieved with fluids that
don’t act as a stimulant to the bladder.
How caffeine reduction can help with hydration
Reducing caffeine can improve sleep; reduce indigestion and headaches; improve hydration, which can reduce urine infections and constipation. It can also improve the effectiveness of antibiotics, other medications and our own ability to fully absorb essential vitamins. Switching to decaffeinated fluids is a great first step to achieving optimal hydration and preventing bothersome bladder and bowel symptoms.
Decaffeinated tea or coffee is where the caffeine has been removed from the coffee beans or tea leaves. The safest method of decaffeination is natural or water-based decaffeination. If you normally drink a lot of caffeinated tea or coffee, you might experience some withdrawal headaches in the first few days. The best way is to reduce slowly, reducing caffeine intake by half a cup a day over a 7–10 day period.
It’s important to remember: as wonderful as innovation is, we can all improve our general health by following these simple lifestyle changes. We must not underestimate that a small change can make a big difference.
