Abstract
The etiology of interstitial cystitis (IC)/painful bladder syndrome (PBS), a debilitating, multifactorial syndrome of the bladder, eludes doctors. Various causes have been speculated. Consequently IC/PBS is a complex condition to treat. Among the non-traditional approaches used for IC/PBS, dietary changes seem to improve symptoms in some individuals. Most of the data gathered on diet as it affects IC/PBS symptoms is anecdotal. There is a large cohort of IC/PBS patients whose symptoms are exacerbated by ingestion of specific comestibles. The most frequently reported and the most bothersome comestibles include items such as alcoholic beverages, coffee, tea, carbonated beverages, tomatoes and tomato products, and certain spices. A registered dietitian should be consulted so that patients can undertake an elimination diet. After the offending foods have been determined, a diet can be developed to avoid problematic foods and beverages, while meeting daily nutrient requirements.