From the Research
Ricotta cheese may exacerbate interstitial cystitis symptoms in some individuals, particularly those with sensitive bladders, due to its moderate amounts of tyramine and histamine, as well as its slightly acidic pH. According to a study published in 2012 1, nearly 90% of patients with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) report sensitivities to a wide variety of dietary comestibles, including acidic foods, aged products, and common bladder irritants. While ricotta cheese is not specifically mentioned as a trigger food in this study, its characteristics suggest that it could potentially irritate the bladder lining in susceptible individuals.
Some key points to consider:
- Interstitial cystitis is a chronic, severely debilitating disease of the urinary bladder, characterized by excessive urgency and frequency of urination, suprapubic pain, and negative urine cultures 2.
- Certain foods and beverages can exacerbate symptoms of interstitial cystitis, including caffeinated, carbonated, and alcoholic beverages, citrus fruits and juices, artificial sweeteners, and spicy foods 3.
- An elimination diet may be helpful in identifying dietary sensitivities and improving symptoms in patients with interstitial cystitis 1.
- Staying well-hydrated with plain water can help dilute urine and reduce bladder irritation, and consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended for proper diagnosis and treatment options.
It is essential to note that the relationship between diet and interstitial cystitis symptoms is complex and may vary between individuals. While some studies suggest that certain foods can trigger symptoms, others may not. A study published in 2007 3 found that 90.2% of patients with painful bladder syndrome/interstitial cystitis reported symptom exacerbation after consuming specific foods or beverages, but the most frequently reported and most bothersome comestibles were coffee, tea, soda, alcoholic beverages, citrus fruits and juices, artificial sweeteners, and hot pepper. Ricotta cheese was not specifically mentioned in this study.
In terms of the hygienic quality of ricotta cheese, a study published in 2018 4 found that Sicilian ewes' ricotta cheeses had improved hygienic conditions over the last ten years, with a reduction in undesired microorganisms such as Enterobacteriaceae, E. coli, and coagulase-positive staphylococci. However, this study did not investigate the potential impact of ricotta cheese on interstitial cystitis symptoms.
Overall, while the evidence is not conclusive, it is possible that ricotta cheese may exacerbate interstitial cystitis symptoms in some individuals, particularly those with sensitive bladders. If you notice that your cystitis symptoms worsen after consuming ricotta cheese, it may be worth eliminating it from your diet temporarily to see if symptoms improve. Keep a food diary to track potential triggers, and consider following an IC-friendly diet that limits acidic foods, aged products, and common bladder irritants.