Dietary Benefits for Interstitial Cystitis

The IC diet helps reduce bladder irritation and pain by eliminating foods and drinks that can aggravate the delicate bladder lining. It also promotes a more conducive environment for a healthy bladder.

The diet can be customized according to individual preferences and causes. It provides a comprehensive approach to treating the condition.

Foods to Eat on an Interstitial Cystitis Diet

Bladder-friendly fruits: Non-citrus fruits like pears, apples, blueberries, and watermelon are less likely to irritate your bladder. Consume them in moderation and see how your body reacts.

Vegetables: Eat non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, carrots, squash, and green beans.

Protein: Choose lean protein sources like skinless poultry, tofu, and fish like salmon or cod.

Carbohydrates: Choose grains like rice because they are bland and less likely to irritate the bladder lining. Be mindful of portion size, though.

Dairy alternatives: While milk and cottage cheese are considered IC-friendly foods, this may not be true for everyone. Consider lactose-free or non-dairy options like almond milk or rice milk if dairy irritates your bladder.

Herbs and spices: Mild herbs like basil, oregano and thyme, as well as a moderate amount of salt, can be used to flavor your dishes.

Staying hydrated is also important. Drinking water helps dilute urine and reduce the concentration of potential irritants. It also helps reduce bladder irritation in people with interstitial cystitis. Drinking enough water also prevents dehydration, which can worsen IC symptoms.