Daily Food & Fluid Guide
Helping carers support healthy hydration and nutrition throughout the day — key steps for continence health.
Guidance based on Continence Foundation of Australia recommendations
Daily Food & Fluid Guide for Carers
ACE Care gap – Continence Support
The 3-Bottle Daily Water Plan
Each morning, fill three 600ml bottles of water and label them 1, 2, and 3. Keep them in the fridge — cold, fresh, and ready to offer. Use this guide to know when to offer each one.
Morning
Offer Bottle 1 with breakfast and through the morning. Encourage small, regular sips.
Midday
Offer Bottle 2 at lunchtime and through the afternoon. Try adding lemon or cordial if plain water is refused.
Evening
Offer Bottle 3 in the late afternoon. Aim to finish by 7pm to help reduce nighttime toilet trips.
Fluid Tips for Carers
SIP
Encourage small, regular sips throughout the day rather than large drinks at once — this is easier on the bladder.
FLAVOUR
If plain water is refused, try adding a slice of lemon, mint leaves or a small splash of no-sugar cordial to make it more appealing.
LIMIT
Reduce caffeine (tea, coffee, cola) and alcohol — these irritate the bladder and can make leakage worse. Offer decaf alternatives where possible.
TRACK
Check how much has been drunk from each bottle at the end of the day. If bottles are not emptied, note it and discuss with the care team.
Food Tips for Continence Health
CHOOSE
Foods with high water content such as soups, fruits (watermelon, oranges, grapes) and yoghurt — these count towards daily fluid intake.
INCLUDE
Fibre-rich foods such as wholegrain bread, oats, vegetables and legumes to support regular bowel movements and reduce constipation.
TIME
Offer meals and snacks at consistent times each day — a regular eating routine supports a healthy bladder and bowel pattern.
AVOID
Very spicy, acidic or salty foods in excess, as these can irritate the bladder. Also limit fizzy drinks which can increase urgency.
Keep drinking — your bladder needs it
Don't stop drinking because you think it will stop your leaking. If you drink too little, the urine becomes very concentrated. This irritates the bladder and makes it want to empty more often — even when there is very little in it. A lack of fluids can also lead to urinary tract infections.
National Continence Helpline: 1800 33 00 66
