Navigating life with bowel incontinence can be challenging and frustrating. However, there are ways you can manage your symptoms through the foods you eat.
Our diets are a powerful asset when it comes to managing our health and supporting our digestive system.
Whether you're aiming to solidify stools, reduce urgency, or simply improve gut health, our guide will walk you through five dietary changes to implement into your daily routine.
An Insight into Bowel Incontinence
Bowel incontinence affects millions of people across the globe.
This condition causes issues with bowel movements, such as leaks and an inability to control the bowels. This can range from minor to severe, affecting people in a myriad of ways.
Individuals who live with this condition can experience anxiety, embarrassment, and a fear of going out in public, reducing their quality of life.
Common causes of bowel incontinence include:
- Muscle damage due to childbirth or surgery
- Chronic diseases (Diabetes, Multiple Sclerosis)
- Nerve damage
- IBD (Inflammatory bowel disease)
- Chronic constipation or diarrhoea
5 Foods To Help Manage Bowel Incontinence
1. Soluble Fiber
Soluble fibre dissolves in water, forming a gel-like substance in the digestive system.
This helps regulate digestion, leading to healthier and more consistent bowel movements. It also helps thicken stool, which can prevent constipation and diarrhoea.
Foods containing soluble fibre help nourish gut bacteria, absorb nutrients, and benefit overall digestive health.
This includes:
- Oatmeal: Helps to control blood sugar and lower cholesterol.
- Barley: Benefits gut health and bowel regulation.
- Apples: Helps maintain easier bowel movements.
- Carrots: Aids stool formation and consistency.
2. Lean Proteins
Lean proteins are an essential part of our diet. They help repair and grow tissues, are easier to digest, and maintain muscle mass.
Foods which contain high levels of saturated fats overburden the digestive system. Lean proteins provide the necessary nutrients without the fat, digesting without stress.
Some foods containing lean protein include:
- Chicken breast: This provides high levels of protein and is easy on the stomach.
- Turkey: This low-fat protein helps maintain muscle strength.
- Fish (cod and tilapia): Whitefish contain omega-3 fatty acids which support gut health.
- Eggs: This is beneficial for muscle maintenance and repair.
3. Fermented Foods
These contain probiotics, which are essential for gut health and enhancing digestive function.
The process of fermentation causes foods to create beneficial enzymes, b-vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids. Fermented foods help to ‘predigest’ certain nutrients, allowing your body to absorb them more easily.
Fermented foods beneficial for bowel incontinence include:
- Yoghurt (low sugar): It contains lactobacilli, which strengthens the digestive tract lining.
- Kefir: Has a thinner consistency and more probiotics than yoghurt.
- Sauerkraut: Provides probiotics, fiber and vitamins C and K.
- Miso: Rich in several essential nutrients and helps maintain a healthy gut flora.
4. Bananas
Due to their unique composition and high potassium content, bananas are essential for those dealing with bowel incontinence.
Bananas help to regulate digestive health, maintain electrolyte balance, and provide dietary fibre. The pectin in this fruit helps to absorb liquid in the intestines, hardening stools and reducing diarrhoea.
They are also a good source of carbohydrates and are easy on the stomach, beneficial for those with gastrointestinal issues. Opt for riper bananas as they have less resistant starch and more soluble fibre.
5. Root Vegetables
High in soluble fibre nutrients, root vegetables are beneficial for those struggling with bowel issues.
Root vegetables contain essential nutrients and are highly digestible, helping to improve the digestive system and ease symptoms of bowel incontinence.
These store a wide range of minerals, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. Many root vegetables also have natural anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce gastrointestinal irritation.
This includes:
- Carrots (cooked): These are high in soluble fibre and beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A to help maintain the lining of the digestive tract.
- Sweet potatoes: This contains soluble fibre and beta-carotene, soothing the stomach and intestines.
- Pumpkin: Rich in soluble fibre and potassium, this aids in digestive health and stool consistency.
- Beets: These are high in fibre and nitrates, which improve blood flow and enhance muscle function in the digestive tract.
Invest in Your Comfort with Incontinence Aids
At Millercare, we understand the variety of struggles that come with incontinence.
That is why we have a wide selection of incontinence products for men and women of all ages. From bed pads to pull-up pants and skincare, you can regain control of your life and leave the house with confidence.
There’s something for everyone. Browse our products today to invest in a better quality of life.
