LEAST/MOST BOTHERSOME FOODS FOR INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS
Interstitial Cystitis (IC) is a chronic condition that is characterized by increased pressure and/or pain in the bladder and pelvic area. Although there is no one single cure for IC, some do find symptom relief through lifestyle modifications.
Nutrition: Remember the “4 C’s”—Carbonation, Caffeine, Citrus, and Vitamin C. Limit intake of these items as they are commonly referenced as bladder irritants. Reference the following guide for additional food items that are categorized as least and most bothersome.
FRUIT
|
LEAST BOTHERSOME |
MOST BOTHERSOME |
|
Apricots, Bananas, Blueberries, Dates, Honeydew, Watermelon, Prunes, Pears, Raisins |
Cranberry Juice, Grapefruit (and Juice), Lemons, Orange (and Juice), Pineapple (and Juice), Strawberries |
VEGETABLES
|
LEAST BOTHERSOME |
MOST BOTHERSOME |
|
Avocados, Beets, Asparagus, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cauliflower, Celery, Cucumber, Eggplant, Mushrooms, Peas, Potatoes (White, Sweet), Radishes, Spinach, Yellow Squash, Zucchini |
Chili Peppers, Pickles, Sauerkraut, Tomato Products |
GRAINS
|
LEAST BOTHERSOME |
MOST BOTHERSOME |
|
Oats, Rice, Popcorn, Pretzels |
NA |
PROTEIN FOODS
|
LEAST BOTHERSOME |
MOST BOTHERSOME |
|
Beef, Fatty Fish (Tuna, Salmon), Nuts, Peanut Butter, Pork, Poultry, Lamb |
Bologna, Salami, Soy |
DAIRY
|
LEAST BOTHERSOME |
MOST BOTHERSOME |
|
Milk (Low-Fat and Whole), Cheese |
Yogurt |
Condiments
|
LEAST BOTHERSOME |
MOST BOTHERSOME |
|
Salt-Free Herbs, Olive Oil |
Chili, Horseradish, Ketchup, Salad Dressings, Soy Sauce, Vinegar, Worcester Sauce |
MISCELLANEOUS
|
LEAST BOTHERSOME |
MOST BOTHERSOME |
|
Water |
Alcohol, Coffee, Tea (Decaf and Caffeinated), Carbonated Drinks, Chocolate, Pizza, Spicy Foods, Artificial Sweeteners (Equal, Sweet ’n’ Low, Saccharin), MSG (Monosodium Glutamate) |
Additional Guidance
Approach Indian, Mexican, and Thai cuisine with caution. These types of meals may contain certain foods from the “most bothersome” list.
Exercise: Ask your provider about working with a physical therapist. A physical therapist can guide you through a personalized program to help strengthen your abdominal muscles and the muscles within your pelvic floor.
Prefer to try exercises at home? Here are a few to help get you started.
Unless otherwise indicated, try completing 10 to 15 reps, 3 times with 1 minute rest in between.
- Bird Dog: https://www.acefitness.org/education-and-resources/lifestyle/exercise-library/14/bird-dog/
- Glute Bridge: https://www.acefitness.org/education-and-resources/lifestyle/exercise-library/49/glute-bridge/
- Supine Dead Bug: https://www.acefitness.org/education-and-resources/lifestyle/exercise-library/147/supine-dead-bug/
Sources:
- Interstitial Cystitis Association. Least and Most Bothersome Foods. Revised 1 June 2016. Accessed 4 August 2021.
https://www.ichelp.org/LIVING-WITH-IC/INTERSTITIAL-CYSTITIS-AND-DIET/ELIMINATION-DIET/LEAST-AND-MOST-BOTHERSOME-FOODS/ - Mayo Clinic. Interstitial Cystitis. 14 September 2019. Accessed 13 September 2021.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/interstitial-cystitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354362
Reviewed by a Registered Dietitian 9/13/2021
This handout is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Dietary needs and restrictions vary based on individual health conditions, medications, and overall care plans.
Always consult your physician, registered dietitian, or qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, trying new products, or modifying your nutrition plan—especially if you have diabetes, kidney disease, gastrointestinal disorders, or other chronic conditions.