How to Eat Right for Interstitial Cystitis

Although the cause of Interstitial Cystitis (IC), or painful bladder syndrome, is unknown and there is no cure, there are various ways to relieve symptoms, including changing your diet. Diet modification does not work the same for everyone, but you might find that following the steps below helps control the symptoms and avoid flare-ups of interstitial cystitis.

Instructions

• 1

  Keep track of your diet in a food journal. This will help you track any correlations between your diet and interstitial cystitis flare-ups.

• 2

  Limit your intake of foods and beverages high in potassium, caffeine, alcohol and acid. This includes tomatoes, citrus fruits and fruit juices, chocolate, coffee and black and green teas. These are more prone to irritating your bladder.

• 3

  Eat as much fresh produce as possible. Aged, canned, cured and other similarly prepared foods may contain irritating additives or "hidden" ingredients.

• 4

  Watch for preservatives, artificial additives and seasonings closely. Read labels at the grocery store. Chemicals used in flavoring, preserving and processing food can quickly irritate your bladder. Monosodium glutamate (MSG), citric acid, aspartame and nitrates are common culprits.

• 5

  Drink plenty of water to encourage regular bladder activity. Herbal teas are typically alright, also.

• 6

  Consider using an elimination diet to help you identify foods and beverages in your diet that might be causing Interstitial Cystitis flare-ups. Cut out all foods falling into the categories above for one or two weeks. Gradually incorporate your favorite foods back in to your diet, but closely monitor which coincide with symptom flare-ups.