Supplements

Many studies have examined the use of complementary therapies for managing interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) symptoms and flares. For example, some doctors recommend drinking water with a tablespoon of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to help soothe an IC/BPS flare.

Some individuals with IC/BPS report that over-the-counter supplements help control symptoms. These include:

• calcium glycerophosphate (Prelief®)
• aloe vera (Desert Harvest Aloe Vera®)
• Wellex's IC Well® supplement
  • Should you choose to purchase IC Well from Wellex, you may use "ICHELP15" as the coupon code for 15% off.
• Femetry products
  • Should you choose to purchase Femetry products, you may use "ICA15" as the coupon code for 15% off.

New research suggests that functional compounds in foods, such as prebiotics/probiotics, Omega fatty acids, and antioxidants, may be effective complementary treatments that support healing and overall well-being.

Vitamins and Minerals

Many people with IC/BPS wonder about taking vitamin and mineral supplements. There is limited research on the need for vitamin and mineral supplementation, as it is better to get the vitamins and minerals you need from food. Following an eating method such as the IC/BPS Plate^TM, you are more likely to get the vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and fiber you need to maintain your health.

Vitamin C

Many patients report that vitamin C causes bladder flares when they take supplements. Some studies found that vitamin C supplements can trigger the “need to go” in women. However, vitamin C naturally found in foods may not cause the same kind of bladder symptoms. Check out the list of IC-friendly fruits and vegetables that tend not to cause flares but that are high in vitamin C.

For patients who feel they need to supplement with vitamin C, a pH-balanced (acid-neutralized) form may be an alternative. Remember to test your sensitivity by starting with small doses.

Vitamin D

Research suggests that low levels of vitamin D may weaken the pelvic floor and lead to chronic pain, and the pain associated with pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD). Research findings also suggest that women with at least one pelvic floor disorder and women with urinary incontinence, regardless of age, have significantly lower vitamin D levels.

It can be challenging to get the amount of vitamin D you need from food (though don't forget to get outside!). If you have PFD, ask your doctor to check your vitamin D level and determine whether you need a vitamin D supplement. Please note: Do not exceed 2000mg of vitamin D per day unless prescribed by your doctor.

Iron Supplements

Iron supplements can cause constipation, which can be very problematic for those with IC/BPS. If you are having irregular bowel movements and take an iron supplement or a vitamin and mineral pill with added iron, it may be contributing to IC/BPS flares. Talk with your doctor to determine whether you should continue taking the supplement or consider alternatives, such as a time-released version. Read more about combatting constipation.

Prebiotics and Probiotics

Prebiotics are fibers found in foods that our bodies cannot digest. But we need them to help promote the growth of good gut bugs (beneficial bacteria that live in our gastrointestinal tracts). Prebiotics are the food for probiotics. So, what are probiotics? They are a type of beneficial gut bacteria needed to keep our bodies healthy.

Some people with IC/BPS, especially those who also have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), report that probiotics help keep their gastrointestinal symptoms in check. Although some research looks promising, we still don’t know for sure whether taking prebiotics or probiotics is helpful. Scientists are trying to determine which probiotics are best for which health conditions. In addition, food manufacturers are working on how to keep these bugs alive in various products. The bottom line: Talk with your doctor before taking a prebiotic or probiotic supplement. See below for a list of foods that contain prebiotics and probiotics.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Researchers are exploring the benefits of specific polyunsaturated fatty acids. Our bodies need certain fatty acids for many functions, such as normal cell growth and the functioning of our brains and nerves. There are different types of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids possess anti-inflammatory properties. In turn, Omega-6 fatty acids can promote inflammation in the body. The typical Western diet of snack foods like chips, popcorn, and crackers is made with various vegetable oils, such as corn, safflower, and sunflower, which are the primary sources of Omega-6.

Our bodies cannot produce Omega-3 or Omega-6 fatty acids. Instead, we get these fatty acids from the foods we eat. Although both are essential, we need to consume more Omega-3 fatty acids for good health. These are found in salmon, tuna, mackerel, and other cold-water, oily fish. Omega-3 fatty acids come from both animal and plant sources. However, your body does not use plant sources as efficiently as animal sources, making the Omega-3 fatty acids from fish more effective. However, vegetarians should still aim to increase their intake of Omega-3 fatty acids through food (or consider a plant-based Omega-3 supplement). Two to three-ounce servings of a fish per week, such as salmon, can provide those needed Omega-3 fatty acids. Below is a list of IC/BPS-friendly foods that are high in Omega-3 fatty acids.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds that naturally occur in foods such as blueberries, green peppers, spinach, kale, and walnuts. The three primary antioxidants in foods are vitamin C, beta carotene, and vitamin E. Studies show that eating foods high in antioxidants can improve your immune system and relieve inflammation. A good rule of thumb for selecting foods high in antioxidants is: the deeper the color, the more antioxidant-rich the food.