Urinary incontinence is the unintentional leaking of urine.
It affects at least 1 in 3 Americans and costs the US more than $30 billion per year (Wu, Hundley, Fulton, & Myers, 2009). Incontinence can significantly alter one’s quality of life and put us at risk for many problems including falls, depression, and fractures (Coyne et al, 2013).
Fortunately, there are surgical and non-surgical interventions available to treat incontinence. However, thanks to recent scientific reports, we now understand that the first and perhaps most crucial step in improving our leaks is by improving our lifestyle. Multiple studies show that lifestyle adjustments resulting in a small amount of weight loss is associated with a significant reduction in incontinent episodes.
The International Urogynecology Journal recently published an article noting overweight women who lost 5-10% of their body weight realized up to a 70% reduction in leaking episodes (Swenson et al., 2017). Comparable results have also been reported in the New England Journal of Medicine from investigators with the Program to Reduce Incontinence by Diet and Exercise (PRIDE) study (Skelly, 2009).
The research is encouraging:
Weight loss improves continence. How much weight? For the average American women, an 8-pound weight loss may be all it takes to experience fewer incidences of urine loss, bowel loss, and prolapse (Greer, Richter, Bartolucci & Burgio, 2008).
At Pelican Health, we know that weight loss is difficult, especially without a concrete system. We understand that life is busy and that healthy steps need to be simple. Our goal is to provide you with resources that enable you to make simple changes that equate to big results for your pelvic health. We encourage you to check out the resources at RC Lifestyle Choices.
About RC Lifestyle Choices:
With RC Lifestyle Choices, you have access to a plethora of information about health, well-being and nutrition to improve all aspects of your life. We focus mainly on:
- Managing weight
- Navigating menopause
- Making healthy choices
- Improving nutrition
- Forming an exercise regimen
There are plenty of ways to put yourself on track to a healthier life. We’ll help you choose the path that’s right for you.
Start living better today – you won’t regret it.
Being Healthy Isn’t Just About Losing Weight
Making smaller numbers show up on your bathroom scale isn’t the ultimate goal. Eating healthy gives you more energy, better heart health, and a happier mood. Exercise reduces stress and allows for better sleeping habits.
Remember the long-term goals when you adjust your lifestyle. Otherwise, you might not feel as committed. It’s not about the weight you’re trying to lose; it’s about the healthy lifestyle you’re trying to gain. Make the change now by taking a jog or cooking something special for yourself. RC Lifestyle Choices will be right by your side supporting you on your health journey.