Diet and other methods to help IC (questions)

[Toto]

Hi All!

I'm hoping to discuss some diet strategies here and get some feedback from others that have found success. I'm farely new to this site and am hoping to find some information on holistic approaches. (I do want to add that I will be trying the hydrodistention surgery soon...I cannot tolerate many medicines as I said in another post)

I've been really working hard to change my diet and have made dramatic changes. I gave up coffee, chocolate, all drinks except for water and the very occasional half glass of soda. I gave up spicy foods, cheese, and (due to migraines), MSG and other migraines causing foods (which coincidentally are also all the IC list). I am now trying L-arginine because I read that some have success. For $8.00 a month I figured it's worth a shot and I have nothing to lose. After I try that out I will try the Cysta-q. (got the free 1 month trial..which by the way I found through this site). I want to try the Cysta-Q now but didn't want to do it while trying the L-arginine.

I even wanted to try extreme measures and try to go vegetarian. I'm reading a book about pain relief through dieting and read the vegetarian diet and help with a whole host of ailments...including bladder issues, migraines, PMS, etc. But right now I don't have the time and energy to change my diet that dramatically. However, I'd love to hear from anyone here who might be a vegetarian. I did buy a vegetarian book to teach myself how to cook vegetarian food. The biggest issue is that many foods need flavorings such as vinegar, lemon juice and spices. How horrible that I cannot use those things because of IC and migraines. It makes me so depressed sometimes!

I'd love anyone's input, opinions, suggestions, and experiences.

I'm also exploring the "sugar" and "gluten" issue. I've given up most sugar but am wondering about "wheat." I saw a book published here on this site about diet and IC and am wondering if anyone's read it and if they recommend it.

Thank you in advance!

[ICNDonna]

There are several very good books available in the ICN Shop. And you'll find the latest food list at the link in my signature below.

I know we have some vegetarian members; some will probably respond.

Warm healing thoughts,
Donna

[Toto]

Thank you! I am going to pick up one of the books. I hope some others will respond.

[Julie B]

Hi Toto,

Yes, we have several people here who are vegetarians. Keep in mind, though, that for some reason, many people find high protein foods like eggs, chicken, and fish helpful. For example, years ago, I realized that my bladder felt better if I had some eggs. To this day I will have scrambled eggs and toast for dinner if my bladder is fussy. So maybe rather than go entirely vegan, you might choose to include eggs and occasionally meats.

The gluten and IC connection has only recently been thrown about as a theory. In contrast, the IC Diet that you find on this website and others, including my own, is based on decades of anecdotal patient and clinician experience as well as emerging research which validates that anecdotal information. Wheat products haven't been traditionally considered a problem for IC patients. I even asked one of the leading experts about a possible IC and gluten connection, and she was very clear about the fact that unless a person has been diagnosed with celiac or another form of gluten intolerance, that a person should not follow a gluten free diet.

It is very confusing, I know.