The 6 Best Supplements for Your Bladder, According to a Urologist
Updated: May 22, 2024
For anyone looking to improve the condition of their bladder (isn't that all of us?), experts in bladder health reveal the vitamins and supplements that help urinary function.
The bladder is essential to our body’s urinary system, regulating the storage and release of urine. Much like diet affects chronic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes, it also plays a significant role in maintaining bladder health.
The intake of certain vitamins and supplements is also known for maintaining urinary wellness. For example, a deficiency in vitamin D is often seen as the number-one vitamin deficiency that causes bladder issues, while some experts also point to vitamin B1 as a significant contributor.
“Eliminating sugary drinks, high caffeine, and other bladder irritants can significantly improve the urinary tract, reducing infections and symptoms of an overactive bladder,” explains Samuel Mathis, MD, MBA, a board-certified family medicine doctor and assistant professor of family medicine at the University of Texas Medical Branch. Other common bladder irritants include:
- artificial sweeteners
- alcohol
- spicy foods
- acidic foods, such as citrus fruits and tomatoes.
Recent medical advancements have significantly impacted bladder health, particularly with the introduction of the FDA-approved breakthrough therapy ANKTIVA in April 2024, which has been a game-changer in the treatment of bladder cancer. Karim Chamie, MD, associate professor of urology at UCLA, describes ANKTIVA as “first-in-class,” indicating that it introduces a new category of treatment. When used with the standard Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) treatment for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), ANKTIVA has shown a high success rate in eliminating cancer, surpassing BCG alone. It is currently undergoing trials to determine its effectiveness against advanced pancreatic and breast cancers. Dr. Chamie highlights the significance of ANKTIVA, noting, “These patients [for whom BCG alone was not effective] often do not have other options. It allowed them to avoid repeated treatment and, most importantly, to avoid surgical removal of the bladder.”
Given these breakthroughs, it’s clear that the bladder is vital for overall health. There are practical steps you can take right now for bladder health, including adding specific vitamins and supplements shown to be beneficial for the bladder.
Ahead, medical experts outline the top supplements for maintaining bladder health.
The best supplements for bladder health, according to expert doctors
1. Vitamin D
A January 2024 meta-analysis conducted by urology researchers in China and published in the peer-reviewed journal Nutrition Reviews linked vitamin D deficiency to an increased risk of overactive bladder and urinary incontinence, suggesting that vitamin D supplements could be a potential treatment.
However, the effectiveness of such supplementation is still debated. A 2022 study showed that vitamin D did not generally improve symptoms more than a placebo. Interestingly, the study also found that men with lower vitamin D levels who took supplements saw a reduction in overactive bladder symptoms, although their risk of urinary incontinence increased.
Alayne Markland, DO, associate professor of medicine in the division of gerontology, geriatrics, and palliative care at the University of Alabama at Birmingham offered a cautious interpretation of these results, stating: “Even though this is a really large study, and it appears that vitamin D may not be a sole contributor to improving urinary incontinence or overactive bladder, there may be a subgroup of men who could potentially respond.” This suggests that vitamin D supplementation might be beneficial for certain individuals but not for everyone.
2. Saw palmetto
Saw palmetto is a plant-based supplement widely recognized for its benefits in supporting bladder and prostate health in men. It is particularly effective in managing symptoms of an overactive bladder or frequent urination. Dr. Mathis explains its mechanism of action, saying saw palmetto “works through decreasing inflammation in the bladder and relaxing the bladder wall to keep it from squeezing.”
Research shows saw palmetto is well-tolerated, exhibiting no major side effects, and is considered quite safe for regular use. Dr. Mathis adds, “I use this one often with my male patients with prostate enlargement.” The recommended dosage is one 300 milligram (mg) capsule, taken one to three times daily.
3. Probiotics
Probiotics, the friendly bacteria that promote gut health, are also vital for maintaining a healthy bladder and urinary tract. “We recommend probiotics all the time for bladder pain and to prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs),” explains Emily Slopnick, MD, a urologist at the Cleveland Clinic.
Dr. Slopnick suggests opting for yogurt as a natural source of probiotics over pills or supplements. However, it’s essential to be selective about your yogurt choice. Many varieties are high in sugar or contain artificial sweeteners, which can irritate the bladder. Dr. Slopnick recommends sticking with plain, nonfat yogurt as the best option for harnessing the benefits of probiotics without the potential drawbacks.
4. Pumpkin seed extract
Pumpkin seeds, a popular snack rich in nutrients, also come in extract form to support urinary health. This natural supplement improves bladder blood flow “by increasing levels of nitric oxide in the blood,” according to Dr. Mathis. Such enhancement helps reduce urinary frequency, urgency, and nighttime urination.
However, it is important to be aware of potential side effects of pumpkin seed extract, such as headaches and lowered blood pressure. Those on blood pressure medications are advised to consult their healthcare provider before taking this supplement.
5. Zinc
Zinc is well-known for its immune-boosting properties, but it’s also one of the best supplements for urinary health, as it can reduce the risk of UTIs and the discomfort associated with them. However, it’s important to exercise caution. “One study found that too much zinc can worsen urinary symptoms and leads to increased hospitalization for bladder problems,” Dr. Mathis warns.
For optimal benefits without the risks, a daily dose of zinc ranging from 50 to 100 milligrams is recommended.
6. Magnesium
Magnesium, often referred to as the relaxation mineral, offers several health benefits, including improved bowel function and reduced bladder spasms, which can help alleviate urinary frequency and urgency—the immediate need to urinate. Dr. Mathis recommends a typical daily dose of 400 milligrams.
Since magnesium influences bowel regularity, it’s important to be aware of a common side effect: Loose stools.
Lifestyle changes to improve bladder health
Dr. Mathis points out that beyond vitamins and supplements, there are other effective ways to improve your bladder health:
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Developing good core strength and performing Kegel exercises can enhance bladder control and lessen symptoms of an overactive bladder.
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Practicing proper hygiene
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Avoiding douching, and choose less restrictive underwear
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Avoiding holding urine for extended periods can help prevent UTIs and reduce the risk of developing overactive bladder symptoms later in life.
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Originally Published: May 22, 2024
