Foods To Avoid With A Bladder Ulcer

Interstitial cystitis is a bladder disorder characterized by irritation and inflammation of wall of your bladder, which is responsible for storing urine. This condition affects about 500,000 people, according to 2008 information from the University of Maryland Medical Center. In some cases, ulcers along the walls of your bladder accompany interstitial cystitis. Although diet cannot cure ulcerative interstitial cystitis, avoiding certain foods may help reduce symptoms and encourage healing. Talk to your physician before changing your diet to address ulcerative interstitial cystitis.

Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits, such as lemons, limes, oranges, tomatoes and grapefruit, may have an adverse effect on ulcerative interstitial cystitis. These fruits may alkalize your urine, which may encourage bacterial growth in your bladder, according to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Bacteria may contribute to bladder infection, which can aggravate bladder ulcers and further damage bladder walls.

Artificial Sweeteners

Products containing artificial sweeteners may aggravate inflammation and cause bladder irritation. This may increase pain and urgency to urinate in people with ulcerative interstitial cystitis. Artificial sweeteners are commonly found in diet soft drinks, commercially packaged juices, candy, light ice cream and some pastries. They are also commonly found in packet form in grocery stores and restaurants.

Refined Flour

White flour is heavily processed to remove the germ and bran for consistent texture, and to increase the shelf life of white-flour products. It is found in pastries, snack crackers, white breads, bagels, flour tortillas, cakes and pasta. White flour is a simple carbohydrate that can damage your bladder and increase inflammation, according to Balch. It may also provide fuel for bacteria, increasing your risk of infection that can irritate ulcers.

Hot Peppers

Hot peppers are commonly used to flavor stir-fry dishes, curries, chili, burritos and Cajun-style meat and rice dishes. Peppers, such as serranos, habaneros, jalapenos and cayenne peppers, contain capsaicin, a chemical that can irritate the lining of your bladder, according to Balch. Capsaicin may also aggravate bladder ulcers, increasing abdominal pain and other symptoms of ulcerative interstitial cystitis.