Dietary Causes of Frequent Urination
While frequent urination can be caused by a number of conditions, ranging from pregnancy to an enlarged prostate, there are a number of dietary causes and solutions to a problem that affects many people, though most are reluctant to discuss it.
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Prevention/Solution
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Two of the most common causes of frequent urination are caffeine and alcohol. They both act as diuretics, which mean they help lower the fluid volume in the body, so limit your consumption.
Warning
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Some people on low-carbohydrate diets complain of frequent urination (among other issues). One way to still reduce carbs and help solve the urination problem is to avoid processed foods that may be low in carbs but are also low in nutrients and instead eat more fruits, legumes and whole grains that are high in fiber.
Considerations
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Frequent urination can be caused by higher blood sugars and kidney problems, so if it's becoming a real problem, you should consult a doctor. If you eat a lot of meat, too much protein in the diet can cause kidney dysfunction.
Misconceptions
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Limiting the amount of water your drink during the day may reduce your trips to the bathroom, but dehydration is a far worse condition and is more damaging to your health. Rather than avoid drinking a few glasses of water each day, try reducing or eliminating soda and caffeinated drinks.
Suggestion
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At your next doctor's visit, report your frequent urination, but be prepared to answer specific questions about what you eat and drink, how much caffeine and alcohol you consume, when you drink (lots of fluids in the evenings can lead to frequent nighttime trips to the bathroom) and about any other symptoms you might have. Lower back pain, for example, can be a sign of kidney problems.
Recent Changes
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If you recently switched to a low-salt diet, you may find yourself urinating more frequently, as your body adjusts to not needing as much fluid to compensate for the sodium levels in the bloodstream.
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