IS THERE A LINK BETWEEN WEIGHT & INCONTINENCE?

IS THERE A LINK BETWEEN WEIGHT & INCONTINENCE?

Being overweight and incontinence go hand in hand. Obesity commonly contributes to the development of urinary incontinence and unfortunately, Australia has one of the highest rates of obesity in the world, with approximately 14 million Australians being overweight or obese. To bring it more into perspective, that is 2 in 3 adults or 1 in 4 children.


Obesity is a complex issue and is associated with many health conditions including heart disease🫀, diabetes, depression 😔, hypertension, increase in cancers 🎗️etc, and it is also often correlated to experiences of urinary incontinence.

Urinary incontinence affects almost 50% of middle-aged and older women world wide, which makes them have to navigate through many health challenges throughout daily life.
 

Would losing weight help? 🤔

 

 

Studies have shown that weight loss based on behavioral or lifestyle choices such as a good diet 🥗, regular exercise 🏋️‍♀️ and good sleep 💤 alleviate the symptoms of urinary incontinence. It also helps support greater long-term well-being and longevity thus reducing risks of chronic diseases that are related to obesity.

 

How do you treat obesity related incontinence? 🩺


Seeking advice from a physician, nutritionist or dietician are good ways to start your journey. It's important to discuss long term strategies and methods with a health care professional and refrain from 'quick fix diets'🚫, as you want it to be a change in your lifestyle as opposed to a dramatic change that you cannot live by.  
Here are some recommendations, but it's all about what works for YOU!

Here are some recommendations, but it's all about what works for YOU!

Here are some recommendations, but it's all about what works for YOU!
    Reducing stress levels 😌
    As part of our 'fight or flight' response, stress causes the production of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. At first this suppresses hunger, however chronic stress causes cortisol to remain in the body for longer and increases ones hunger.
     
    Intermittent fasting ⏳
    This is a pattern of eating that involves regular short term fasts and consuming meals within a shorter window of time. Make sure you see your health professional beforehand to ensure it is safe for you to do.
     
    Gradual long-term weight loss program 📅
    One study found that following a systematic 6 month weight loss program dramatically reduced urinary incontinence in almost half of the 338 obese participants. Again, please seek a health care professional before starting any program.
     
    Pelvic floor training 💪
    Pelvic floor muscles play a key role in preventing or minimizing incontinence across all genders and age groups.
     
    Slow & mindful eating 🥄
    It takes 20- 30 minutes for our stomach to tell our brain that we are full. Chewing more, and eating more slowly will not only help you to not overeat, but you will most likely enjoy the meal more.

       

      What can I use to make this more manageable?

       
      Just because you have incontinence, doesn't mean you have to stop doing the things you enjoy. Finding the right management products plays an essential role in navigating the condition and helping you live a confident life! 💖

      Our Comforts pads are suitable for all types of leaks, from light ones that happen 'here and there' to very heavy flows. We deliver high absorbent 100% natural cotton pads which reduces skin irritation that can accompany leakages. 🌿