By the time I was diagnosed, I already had a good idea of which foods caused my symptoms to flare up. My urologist provided me with a list of common "triggers," and recommended an elimination diet. For two weeks, I ate only very plain foods, such as bread, poultry, fish, rice, and potatoes. I gradually added others, noting which substances caused me pain. This can be a time-consuming, frustrating task. It can take months or even longer to find out exactly which foods you should be avoiding. In my case, it was well worth the trouble, and saved me from a great deal of pain. The elimination diet, or any change in your diet, should first be approved by your health care professional.
If you find that a food you love is the culprit, it does not necessarily mean that you have to give it up entirely. You may find that you can tolerate irritating foods in smaller amounts. This can help you to avoid feeling deprived. For some people, eating several smaller meals each day, instead of three large ones, also helps.
The one thing that helps me the most is WATER. It is important for everyone to drink enough water, but even more so for Interstitial Cystitis patients. Especially during a flare-up, drinking plenty of water can help flush the irritants out of your system. Bottled spring water is usually the best choice.
Having IC doesn't mean that you can't eat at restaurants. Don't hesitate to ask about ingredients, if the dish is one you're not familiar with. Sauces, spices, and other irritants can often be served on the side, or eliminated altogether. Most restaurants are glad to accommodate your needs.
Check out the Interstitial Cystitis Association's "What's Cookin?" section for diet information, as well as several great recipes: http://ichelp.org/WhatsCookin/welcome.ht...
Visit the diet and nutrition column for patients at ICN:
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