An expert has explained why some individuals frequently urinate at night, identifying it as a result of a little-known condition.
Dr. Eric Berg, a seasoned health professional, has extensive knowledge about urinary issues. When he suggests that your frequent urination isn’t due to bladder problems, it’s worth exploring further.
Various factors can lead to increased urination frequency. Age, childbirth, or a weakening pelvic floor may all contribute to bladder urgency.
Nonetheless, according to Dr. Berg, there is a specific condition that can significantly impact your health.
In a video shared on YouTube, Dr. Berg detailed some of the ‘consequences of poor sleep,’ which include a reduced metabolism, elevated cortisol levels, a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, increased risk of high blood pressure, impaired brain detoxification, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, diminished cognitive function, lower testosterone, and persistent fatigue.
Dr. Berg noted that ‘approximately 1 in 5 men and 1 in 4 women in the U.S. get up at least once or twice to urinate every night, and aging is not the problem!’
So, what could be the cause?
The condition in question is known as nocturia.
Nocturia, according to the UK’s NHS, is a condition that prompts individuals to urinate at night, with causes ranging from diabetes and heart problems to bladder infections, age, incontinence, and hormonal issues. Dr. Berg highlighted one cause as the hormone antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which ‘plays a crucial role in preventing excessive urination.’ In his video, he explained that ADH ‘means it’s anti-urinating excessively, especially through the night’.
He further elaborated: “This hormone is vital in preventing excessive urination, particularly at night. It is integral to maintaining water balance. If there’s an issue with this hormone, you will produce more urine, especially at night.”
He also mentioned that an excess of salt, insufficient potassium, ‘blood sugar issues, and insulin resistance all affect ADH and can lead to increased urine production to eliminate excess salt and sugar’.
Other factors that may impact the hormone include:
• Caffeine
• Sugar/starch
• Excess protein
• Alcohol
So, what does Dr. Berg advise?
He suggests that Vitamin B1 and magnesium are crucial for improving bladder control.
Dr. Berg stated: “B1 is essential for the part of the nervous system that controls the bladder. However, B1 requires magnesium to be effective. These two are particularly important if you urinate in the middle of the night with minimal output.”
He also recommends not drinking up to three hours before bedtime, abstaining from alcohol, avoiding snacks and salty foods before sleep, increasing potassium intake earlier in the day, reducing caffeine consumption, and avoiding large amounts of protein at night.
According to him, these measures help maintain optimal urinary health.