For those of you who don’t know, Interstitial Cystitis (IC) is a condition that consists of recurring pelvic pain, pressure, or discomfort in the bladder and pelvic region. You may feel like you are having a bladder infection, with a lot of pelvic pain and feeling like you constantly have to urinate. The trouble with this condition is that it is very hard to diagnose.

We received a copy of the book “Interstitial Cystitis- A Guide for Nutrition Educators” by  Registered Dietitian, Julie Beyer and although this book is very helpful for us in treating IC, we wanted to share this information with our readers, regarding this unique condition.  This book goes to show how important the role of the Registered Dietitian is in treating interstitial cystitis nutritionally. First, the dietitian knows how to incorporate necessary, healthful foods into a diet with certain food and beverage restrictions.  We can also provide the tools and suggestions for nutrient modifications so the body is still functioning despite the condition.  Many people with IC tend to feel scared and frustrated when they cannot find the right answers on how to modify their diets.

If you or someone you know has IC please consider seeing a Registered Dietitian. We can help identify your trigger foods, instill problem-solving skills to maintain your health and offer support in helping you rediscover the pleasures of eating.  We help you recognize your trigger foods, teach you how to modify your diet, and allow a testing period for introducing new foods.

Furthermore, diet is now going to be considered a first line treatment in the new American Urological Association’s treatment protocols for IC patients.