Interstitial Cystitis Diet & Lifestyle

Did you know that September is Interstitial Cystitis Awareness Month? Until a few years ago, I had never heard of interstitial cystitis (IC), even though it affects an estimated 4–8 million women in the US alone! Also referred to as bladder pain syndrome or painful bladder syndrome, symptoms can commonly include urinary urgency, frequency, and pelvic pain. With the causes and treatments not being well understood and with lack of awareness among even healthcare practitioners, having IC can be incredibly isolating. But there is hope, and you can manage interstitial cystitis! Today we're focusing on interstitial cystitis diet and lifestyle recommendations with an IC dietitian.

Callie Krajcir is a Registered Dietitian specializing in interstitial cystitis (IC), a chronic bladder condition. She helps people with IC minimize their symptoms through identifying their unique triggers. Callie is an IC Warrior herself and has suffered from the condition since she was young, making her want to help others suffering from the same condition. She is currently one of only two Registered Dietitians in North America who specializes in IC. Callie currently offers a program called Road To Remission that combines an elimination diet, education, and a private support community.

Contrary to popular belief, you are not doomed to a life following a restrictive "IC diet." Like anything, managing interstitial cystitis requires a personalized approach — when it comes to IC diet, lifestyle, supplements, medications, and other treatments.

This Week We Talk About:

• What is interstitial cystitis — common symptoms, and how it is diagnosed
• Conventional treatments for IC
• What is the interstitial cystitis diet and what the most common trigger foods are
• Why a short-term elimination diet to identify YOUR trigger foods is better
• Lifestyle triggers and suggested changes to lessen IC flares
• Medications and supplements for IC

Mentioned in this episode

PCOS Meal Prep Made Easy Workshop – In this hour-long workshop, I break down what foods you want to include for PCOS and what you may want to consider avoiding or minimizing. Learn my simple 3-step formula for planning meals with PCOS, which includes learning how to eat to balance blood sugar.

Where to find Callie Krajcir:

Callie K Website: callieknutrition.com

Instagram: @callieknutrition & Tiktok @callieknutrition

Callie's free IC masterclass - click HERE

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Disclaimer: This website and podcast are not intended to provide medical advice. Please consult with your doctor before implementing nutrition, lifestyle, or supplement changes.