Bladder health is often overlooked until a problem arises. The bladder is a hollow, muscular organ located in the lower abdomen. The Cleveland Clinic says it stores urine from the kidneys until it’s ready to be expelled. As the bladder fills, stretch receptors send signals to the brain, triggering the urge to urinate when visiting the bathroom.

Everything is fine when the bladder works properly, but several conditions can affect it, according to CxBladder. Chances are you or someone you know has experienced a urinary tract infection (UTI) at some point. During a UTI, bacteria enter the urethra, multiply, and travel up to the bladder. Overactive bladder, stress urinary incontinence, interstitial cystitis, and bladder cancer are other conditions that can impact bladder health.

Brown University Health states that your diet and beverages can significantly influence both your bladder health and overall wellness. These steps can help improve bladder health.

Drink plenty of water.

Drinking water throughout the day helps dilute urine and prevents conditions like kidney stones. Concentrated urine can irritate the bladder and eventually impair the ability to control urination. Not drinking enough water can also lead to dehydration, which promotes bacterial growth. Northwestern Medicine recommends that healthy adults consume 48 to 64 ounces of fluids daily. For those who wake at night to urinate, it’s best to drink more fluids in the morning and afternoon and stop drinking a few hours before bedtime.

Limit or avoid alcohol.

Alcohol acts as a diuretic, increasing urine production and water loss through urination. This can lead to dehydration and more concentrated urine. Such concentrated urine may irritate and inflame the bladder, increasing the risk of UTIs. Alcohol may also worsen urinary incontinence or an overactive bladder.

Quit smoking today.

The Urology Care Foundation explains that smoking impacts many parts of the body, including the bladder. Cigarette smokers are two to three times more likely than nonsmokers to develop bladder cancer. In fact, tobacco is the leading risk factor because it exposes the bladder to harmful chemicals that can damage its lining.

Exercise regularly.

Participating in daily activity benefits your overall health. Many diseases are connected to sedentary lifestyles and being overweight or obese. The current Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend that adults get 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week. Besides regular exercise, people can do pelvic floor exercises to support bladder health. Known as Kegels, these exercises strengthen the muscles that support the bladder, uterus, rectum, and vagina. Both men and women can perform Kegels by contracting the muscles as if stopping urination or holding in gas. Hold the contraction for five to 10 seconds, then relax. Repeat 10 times each day.

Bladder health is an important issue that many people often overlook. Making certain lifestyle changes can help improve it.