Junk Food DOUBLES Risk of Embarrassing Leaks
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted March 24, 2025
Ladies, if you need another reason to think twice before hitting the drive-thru, I have one for you.
A new study found that a fast-food habit can contribute to a problem most women would rather not talk about—urinary incontinence.
That’s right, those embarrassing “oops” moments when you laugh, cough, or exercise could be directly linked to what’s on your plate.
And as strange as that sounds, scientists even have a good idea why…
An enlightening study published in Women’s Health in 2024 found that a junk food habit could make bladder leaks significantly more likely.
Urinary incontinence is becoming increasingly common, affecting millions of women and significantly impacting their quality of life. Now, researchers have uncovered a surprising dietary connection that could help explain why it’s on the rise.
According to the research, frequently eating processed or fast food is associated with a 50 percent increase in the risk of developing a leaky bladder.
The good news? The opposite is also true… eating better reduces the risk.
A leaky bladder isn’t life-threatening, of course. But, it is inconvenient, embarrassing, and costly (pads and other incontinence products are pricey).
Even worse, you might find yourself restricting activities, avoiding social situations, or constantly worrying about accidents.
So why would junk food affect your bladder control, anyway? Researchers say there are several reasons why they could contribute to the problem:
- Their high sodium content can increase urine production and bladder irritation
- Inflammatory compounds in junk food can affect pelvic floor muscle function
- Poor nutrition compromises tissue health, including those supporting the bladder
- Weight gain from unhealthy eating puts additional pressure on the bladder
Understanding these connections gives you a powerful opportunity—changing what you eat can slash your risk of embarrassing leaks. As a bonus, the same changes will protect you from other processed- food-linked health problems, from heart disease to depression.
If you’re experiencing urinary incontinence or want to take steps to prevent it, these diet changes could help:
- Replace processed foods with whole, natural alternatives
- Eat more fruits, vegetables, and fiber
- Stay well-hydrated with water and limit bladder-irritating caffeine and alcohol
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your pelvic floor
- Eat more bladder-friendly foods like pumpkin seeds, which contain zinc for tissue repair
In addition to dietary changes, pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) can significantly improve bladder control. These simple exercises strengthen the muscles that support your bladder and can be done discreetly throughout the day.
Simply type “How to do Kegels” into any search engine for instructions on how to do them.
This research provides yet another compelling reason to clean up your diet. When you cut back on junk you will not only protect your heart, brain, and waistline—but also your quality of life.
P.S. The REAL key to aging well. (Hint: It’s NOT in your genes.)
Source:
Kuutti MA, Hyvärinen M, Lankila H, Aukee P, Hietavala E-M, Laakkonen EK. Association of eating behavior with symptoms of pelvic floor disorders in middle-aged women: An observational study. Women’s Health. 2024;20. doi:10.1177/17455057241305075
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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