Recent research has uncovered a fascinating link between food allergies and bedwetting in children. This discovery offers new hope for families struggling with this common childhood issue. A groundbreaking study by Dr. A. Husmann and Dr. Douglas Tietjen from the Mayo Clinic’s Department of Urology found a clear connection between dietary allergies and bladder instability.
Their research showed that patients who switched to food-restricted diets stopped bedwetting, while the problem recurred when they resumed their regular diets. On regular diets, patients experienced a 50% reduction in bladder capacity and uninhibited bladder contractions. However, when following a hypoallergenic diet, they demonstrated normal bladder control. This finding is further supported by Dr. James C. Breneman’s work. In his book “Basics of Food Allergy,” Dr. Breneman states that “control of food allergy is effective in curbing bedwetting in 4 out of 5 patients”. His study of 65 bedwetters found complete symptom relief in all participants when they avoided foods they were allergic to.
The mechanism behind this phenomenon is intriguing. When an allergen is consumed, it causes the bladder to become rigid and lose its elasticity, reducing its ability to expand and hold urine. The allergic reaction triggers inflammation, leading to bladder spasms and an increased urge to void.
Practical Steps to Address Bedwetting Through Diet
Based on these findings, here are some strategies to help eliminate bedwetting:
- Identify and eliminate common allergens: Focus on removing milk products, wheat, corn, oats, barley, soybean, peanuts, eggs, citrus, strawberries, pineapple, melons, food dyes, additives, and processed foods from your child’s diet.
- Pay special attention to gluten: Gluten-containing products are often a primary trigger.
- Find suitable substitutes: Replace common allergens with alternatives like buckwheat, cassava or rice bread, rice crackers, rice pasta, potatoes, dairy-free cheeses, and nut butters (except peanut).
- Try an elimination diet: Remove potential allergens for two weeks, then reintroduce them one at a time every two days. Keep a food diary to track any changes in bedwetting patterns or other symptoms.
- Consider allergy testing: IgG and IgE blood spot testing or non-invasive allergy testing can help identify specific food sensitivities.
It’s important to note that food allergies can be highly individual.
One case study mentioned a child who experienced bedwetting
after reintroducing chia seeds, highlighting the need for
personalized approaches.
While these dietary changes may seem challenging, they offer a
promising, non-invasive approach to addressing bedwetting. As
always, consult with a healthcare professional before making
significant changes to your child’s diet.
By understanding the connection between food allergies and
bedwetting, parents can take proactive steps to help their
children overcome this common issue, potentially improving their
quality of life and boosting their confidence.
It’s important to note that food allergies can be highly individual. One case study mentioned a child who experienced bedwetting after reintroducing chia seeds, highlighting the need for personalized approaches.
While these dietary changes may seem challenging, they offer a promising, non-invasive approach to addressing bedwetting. As always, consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your child’s diet.
By understanding the connection between food allergies and bedwetting, parents can take proactive steps to help their children overcome this common issue, potentially improving their quality of life and boosting their confidence.
If you would like to order an IgE/IgG blood spot test to check for allergies, please email [email protected]