Can Diet Improve Interstitial Cystitis Symptoms?

Interstitial cystitis, or chronic bladder inflammation, can be a very uncomfortable condition to live with. It can cause the urge to urinate, frequent urination, passing smaller amounts of urine, pain during sexual intercourse, and pain or pressure around the bladder and pelvic areas, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. It is generally thought that those who suffer from this condition can control it through diet. Is this true, though? Here's what you should know about the link between certain foods and interstitial cystitis.

Can Diet Help Manage Interstitial Cystitis?

There is no conclusive evidence which proves that diet plays a role in managing this condition, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Many experts believe that consuming certain foods and beverages can worsen interstitial cystitis, however. According to the National Institutes of Health, some patients also notice relief in symptoms when they make modifications to their diet. While the link between diet and cystitis is still unconfirmed, it is ideal for sufferers to be aware of the foods and beverages which are believed to worsen bladder symptoms.

What Foods Should Cystitis Patients Avoid?

There are a number of foods and beverages which are believed to cause bladder irritation. The Interstitial Cystitis Association lists alcohol, artificial sweeteners, coffee, citrus juices, cranberry juice, hot peppers, soda, and spicy foods as the biggest irritants for cystitis sufferers. Aged cheeses, chocolate, Lima beans, most nuts, most fruits, onions, rye bread, seasonings containing MSG, sour cream, sourdough bread, soy, tea, tofu, tomatoes, and yogurt are other foods which have been linked to bladder irritation, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Is There a Link Between Food Allergies and Interstitial Cystitis?

There is a suspected link between food allergies and cystitis. Food allergies, such as nut and grain allergies, are thought to cause bladder irritation, according to the Interstitial Cystitis Association. If you have a food allergy, the best thing that you can do is avoid consuming those foods altogether.

Although there is no evidence which confirms that there's a link between diet and cystitis, many medical experts and patients believe otherwise. If you are an interstitial cystitis sufferer, it is ideal to consider removing these foods and beverages from your diet. Try keeping a record of when you remove these foods and what symptoms you experience. Add them back individually to see if there's a difference in your symptoms. If you notice any improvement in your bladder symptoms by removing foods, it's ideal to cut back on them in the future.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only. Anyone who is concerned about their health should seek medical attention from a licensed healthcare professional.

Sources:
American Academy of Family Physicians
Interstitial Cystitis Association
National Institutes of Health
University of Maryland Medical Center