A man having urethritis and Urinary Incontinence. Male with hands holding her crotch. Cystitis symptoms with men
Leah Berenson
Leah Berenson
April 24, 2024 ·  3 min read

6 Foods That Can Make You Pee To Avoid Before Bedtime

Sleep is essential for overall well-being, and uninterrupted rest is key to waking up refreshed. However, certain foods can disrupt this precious slumber by increasing the frequency of bathroom trips during the night. To ensure a peaceful night’s sleep, it’s wise to steer clear of these six foods that can make you pee before bedtime.

Citrus Fruits and Juices

Citrus Fruits and Juices
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Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and their juices are notorious for their diuretic properties. While they are packed with vitamin C and other nutrients, their high acidity levels can irritate the bladder, leading to increased urination. Consuming citrus fruits or juices close to bedtime can disrupt your sleep cycle by prompting multiple trips to the bathroom.

Read More: The Recommended Sleep Times According to the National Sleep Foundation

Caffeinated Beverages

Citrus Fruits and Juices
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Coffee, tea, energy drinks, and certain sodas are popular choices for a quick energy boost. However, their caffeine content acts as a stimulant, not just for the mind but also for the bladder. Caffeine is known to increase urine production and can linger in your system for hours. Avoiding caffeinated beverages in the evening can help prevent unnecessary interruptions to your sleep.

Spicy Foods

Spicy Foods
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While spicy dishes can add excitement to your palate, they can wreak havoc on your sleep routine. Spices like chili peppers contain compounds that can irritate the bladder and gastrointestinal tract, leading to frequent urination and potential discomfort. Opting for milder options or enjoying spicy meals earlier in the day can minimize their disruptive effects on your nighttime rest.

Read More: Eating for Better Sleep: 6 Foods High in Melatonin

Alcohol

Alcohol makes you pee when consumed before bedtime
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While a nightcap may seem like a relaxing way to unwind before bed, alcohol can have a detrimental impact on your sleep quality. As a diuretic, alcohol increases urine production and can interfere with your body’s ability to maintain deep sleep stages. Limiting alcohol consumption, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime, can help you achieve a more restful night’s sleep.

Water-Rich Fruits and Vegetables

Water-Rich Fruits and Vegetables
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While staying hydrated is essential for overall health, consuming water-rich fruits and vegetables before bedtime can lead to frequent trips to the bathroom. Fruits like watermelon, cucumbers, and strawberries have high water content, making them foods that make you pee at night. Enjoying these hydrating foods earlier in the day can prevent disturbances to your sleep cycle.

High-Sodium Foods

High-Sodium Foods
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Foods that are high in sodium, such as processed snacks, canned soups, and certain condiments, can contribute to fluid retention and increased thirst. Consuming these salty treats before bed can prompt excessive urination as your body works to eliminate the excess sodium. Opting for lower-sodium options and limiting salty snacks in the evening can help you maintain a more peaceful night’s sleep.

In Conclusion

Girl sleeping - foods that make you pee
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Achieving restful sleep is essential for overall health and well-being, and making mindful choices about your diet can play a significant role in promoting uninterrupted rest. By avoiding these foods/drinks that make you pee before bedtime, you can minimize disruptions to your sleep cycle and wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Prioritizing sleep-friendly foods and beverages can help you create an optimal bedtime routine that supports a good night’s sleep.

Read More: 6 Things You Shouldn’t Do In Bed to Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Sources

  1. “11 Foods to Avoid if You Have Overactive Bladder (OAB)” Healthline. Ryan Wallace. May 19, 2023.
  2. “8 Foods and Drinks That Irritate Your Bladder” Health. Anne Harding. November 15, 2022.