IC/BPS Food Guide
There is no universal IC diet. Food and drink tolerance varies by person and can change with portion size, combinations, preparation, stress, sleep, and flare status.
Start with observation
Record what you eat and drink alongside symptoms without immediately removing many foods. Look for repeat associations rather than blaming one meal after one difficult day.
Commonly discussed categories
Some people report sensitivity to acidic foods, caffeine, alcohol, carbonation, spicy foods, artificial sweeteners, or concentrated ingredients. Others tolerate some or all of these. A list is a hypothesis generator, not a rulebook.
Protect nutrition
Large restriction lists can reduce calories, fiber, protein, micronutrients, enjoyment, and social flexibility. A registered dietitian can help when the diet is already narrow, weight is changing, eating feels fearful, or other conditions complicate choices.
A practical method
- Track a baseline.
- Choose one focused change at a time.
- Keep the rest of the routine reasonably stable.
- Reintroduce when appropriate.
- Record amount, preparation, timing, and symptom context.