Interstitial cystitis, or IC, is a chronic condition of your bladder that can cause uncomfortable pain or burning. Treatment sometimes includes dietary changes as well as medications or even surgery. According to the Interstitial Cystitis Association, there is a lack of research in regards to IC and diet. Many clinical studies have not proven a total link to diet and interstitial cystitis. It is best to eat a variety of foods to maintain a healthy diet. If you do eliminate a certain trigger food from your diet and feel better, it may be a good food to eliminate from your diet altogether.
Interstitial Cystitis
The Mayo Clinic defines interstitial cystitis as a chronic condition characterized by a combination of uncomfortable bladder pressure, bladder pain and sometimes pain in your pelvis, which can cause a burning or discomfort. This condition can be uncomfortable and painful. It is not caused by bacteria, so antibiotics are not able to help cure this problem. It can be associated with other medical conditions such as asthma, endometriosis, food allergies, incontinence as well as irritable bowel syndrome. If you have IC, you may have experienced frequent urination or even bladder spasms.
IC Diet
The Interstitial Cystitis Association states that eliminating certain foods from the diet can help alleviate symptoms of IC for some people. Avoid beverages with caffeine or alcohol as they may aggravate your bladder. Stay away from beer, wine, hard liquor, coffee, tea or soda. Certain carbohydrates such heavily preserved cereals or already-prepared noodle and rice dishes may increase your symptoms as well. Avoid dairy products like soy or soy cheese or processed cheeses.
Drinks
Tap water is by far the best drink to consume if you have IC. Some flavored bottled waters have added carbonation or flavors that may cause increased problems for your bladder. Avoid all alcohol because it is a bladder irritant. Any type of caffeine can increase urination because it is a stimulant. Coffee, hot or cold tea as well as soda pop is not recommended. Many sodas contain citrus flavoring as well as caffeine. Be cautious when consuming energy drinks or sports drinks too.
Fruits and Vegetables
Certain fruits have been linked to more IC problems. Be cautious when eating berries, especially cranberries. Avoid all citrus foods such as lemons, limes, oranges and grapefruits. Other fruit that may cause problems include grapes, kiwi fruit, nectarines, melons, pineapple as well as strawberries. Vegetables such as chili peppers, onions, pickles, sauerkraut, soy beans, tomatoes and tofu can increase your IC symptoms. Remember that you may not have to eliminate any or all of these foods. It is best to try each food to determine if it may be a trigger food for you. Some fruits and vegetables can easily be eaten with IC as long as you have no adverse side affects.
Meat
Most meat products or protein is ok to eat with IC. Cured meats such as lunch meats or hot dogs can increase the IC symptoms for some people. Canned crab meat has been linked to increased problems with IC. Avoid all soy products such as soy meat patties, tofu or even protein powder.
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