Interstitial Cystitis Diet: Choose Foods to Prevent IC Naturally (+ Recipes)

Interstitial Cystitis Diet: Choose Foods to Prevent IC Naturally (+ Recipes)
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An interstitial cystitis diet may be the answer for many people who suffer from interstitial cystitis. Although research into the painful bladder health problem is ongoing, some evidence seems to suggest that in certain situations, food choices can prevent interstitial cystitis symptoms naturally. In other words, without aggressive, conventional drug intervention.

Interstitial cystitis or IC is a condition whereby a person experiences discomfort and/or pain in the bladder, as well as the pelvic area. In some cases, it can also lead to an urgent or frequent need to urinate. While scientists have not publicly declared a link between improved interstitial cystitis and diet, countless patients have said that certain foods contribute to their bladder irritation and pain. This suggests that eliminating various items from the diet and then reintroducing them one at a time may help determine which foods impact an individual’s symptoms.

Interstitial Cystitis Prevention Diet: Foods to Eat and Foods to Avoid

It is important for us all to get a well-balanced diet, but it seems there are foods to eat and foods to avoid with painful bladder syndrome. It is true that not everyone is the same, yet there is an IC food list consisting of what you could call common offenders. Check out the list of beverages and foods below. These could be foods that cause interstitial cystitis to act up.
  • Coffee
  • Black, green, and herbal tea
  • Most fruit juices
  • Carbonated drinks
  • Alcohol
  • Tomatoes
  • Lemons and limes
  • Grapefruits
  • Vinegar
  • Chocolate
  • Artificial sweeteners
  • Citric acid
  • Most preservatives
  • Most spices
The above list is extensive, so you might be wondering, what is the interstitial cystitis diet list? Well, as mentioned, we need a balanced diet. This allows for good blood flow and proper bowel movement. If we limit our diet too much, it will make us weak – aside from the fact that the menu will always be boring.
Victor Marchione
Victor Marchione
Author
Dr. Victor Marchione is a leader in the field of smoking cessation and pulmonary medicine. As well as being on the Advisory Board for Bel Marra Health, he is also the editor of the Health eTalk newsletter.
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