Boost Your Immune System

• 1). Make an appointment with an integrative internist. A diagnosis of IC can follow another serious illness, such as a severe case of stress and fatigue or even a case of the flu that requires antibiotics. Some people with interstitial cystitis also suffer from other conditions, such as endometriosis, irritable bowel syndrome and chronic fatigue. One key to good health is a strong immune system.
  
  
• 2). Ask your integrative internist for specific recommendations. Mainstream physicians might only offer textbook advice and guidance, such as eating yogurt for a better immune system. Many integrative internists, though, use both traditional and alternative or complementary approaches, and you can receive more in-depth advice about what vitamins and supplements to take. For example, you might be advised to take colostrum and probiotics.
  
  
• 3). Eat foods that will support a healthy gastrointestinal tract, which will also foster a healthy immune system. Maintaining a healthy gut is crucial for healthy immune and digestive function. Digestive problems experienced over a period of time may migrate downwards in the body. Eat nutrient-dense foods to support gastric and digestive functions. Eat plenty of protein, foods high in fiber and vegetables. Avoid processed, non-organic foods.
  
  

Balance Your pH

• 1). Test your body’s pH on a regular basis. In scientific terms, pH, or “Potential of Hydrogen,” is the measure of alkalinity or acidity in a solution. When you test your body’s pH, you will find out if you are more alkaline or acidic. A body with an unbalanced pH is toxic. This toxic environment can prevent cells in the body from receiving the proper nutrients and oxygen. It can also cause the mutation of cells, which can cause disease.
  
  
• 2). Eat foods that support a healthy pH. Make sure that all of your meals are balanced with a ratio of 75 percent alkaline to 25 percent acidic. Research alkaline and acidic foods and beverages in your local libraries, bookstores or through health magazines. You may be surprised to learn that foods like chicken, for example, are highly acidic. An overabundance of acidic foods will bring about too much acidity in your body. This may cause irritation, inflammation, a weakened immune system, lower energy levels and a host of other problems, including IC.
  
  
• 3). Avoid drinking beverages with your meals. When you drink with your meal, the digestive process cannot actually begin with your mouth. Moreover, this over-tasks your digestive system. If you absolutely must drink something with your meal, drink room temperature water. Proper digestion is essential to supporting a balanced environment in your body, including your pH.