Caffeine
Whether you’re a java junkie or crave your afternoon soda fix (carbonated beverages, even of the caffeine-free variety, are also irritating), caffeine is something that you’ll want to reduce or eliminate from your diet altogether. It’s a common irritant for people suffering from cystitis.
Alcohol
Not only is alcohol incredibly irritating to the bladder, but it is also contraindicated with many IC medications, so while many IC patients will sneak a drink or two, alcohol should be eliminated from the diet altogether. Even a few drinks can lead to painful flare-ups, and it can interfere with your medication’s ability to function properly.
Most Fruits
Citrus drinks, fruits and juices are also common bladder irritants, as are most fruits, with the exceptions of apples, blueberries, honeydew melon and pears. Most berries fall into the “Caution” category, alongside dried fruits (especially those with preservatives), grapes, guava, kiwi fruit, melons, nectarines, passionfruit, papaya, pineapple, starfruit and raisins.
Most Nuts
Most nuts also have to be knocked off the menu, except almonds, cashews and pine nuts. Hazlenuts, pecans and pistachios are on the Caution list, while macadamia nuts, pecans and walnuts fall under the “try it” category.