Q: How soon can I expect to feel a change?
A: This varies tremendously from person to person. Some notice changes right away, whereas others may take a few months to notice changes.
Q: Do I need to feel worse before I feel better?
A: Some things do feel worse, yes, but the bladder itself should not have to feel worse before it feels better. If it does, then you should let us know. Examples of things that may feel worse are: cold or flu symptoms, increased vaginal discharge, itching, mild rashes, nausea, headache, cloudy or smelly urination, and fatigue. These symptoms are generally associated with the body going through a cleansing reaction and should pass as improvement in health occurs.
Q: How long is each diet stage last?
A: Every person is guided through the diet stages in accordance with his or her progress. The diet plan outlined on this site is only a very general guideline.
Q: How long will I need to stay in treatment?
A: Some people improve within one year and others may take several years, slowly improving over time. This varies tremendously depending on the length of time the person has been ill, how the illness developed, the amount of medications taken, and constitutional strength.
Q: Do I need to stay on a diet forever?
A: The diet starts out very restrictively and, as progress is made, it broadens until the diet is quite like any other normal diet. The main difference at the end of treatment is that alcohol and processed sugar are recommended for very limited consumption only. The reason for this is because it is the opinion of the ICAMA that these two items encourage unhealthy changes in the body. Other healthful recommendations are also made as a part of learning how to make healthy food choices.
Q: Will I lose weight?
A: Often patients do lose weight during treatment. If the person is already too skinny, certain guidelines of the diet need to be modified.
Q: Do I stop taking my medications?
A: Absolutely not. We require the guidance of the prescribing doctor if it is thought that your medications may be having a negative impact on your general health or your bladder. We will all work together to help you make the right decision for your individual circumstances.
Q: Can I take birth control pills during treatment?
A: The ICAMA has found birth control pills to be inhibitive of good progress and recommends not starting treatment until you have stopped the use of them.
Q: Can I undergo treatment as a vegetarian?
A: The ICAMA has not had great success in treating vegetarians. However, some advancement has been made regarding that issue recently. Please let us know in advance of scheduling your appointment if you are a vegetarian.
Q: How much will my supplements cost?
A: The cost is very different from patient to patient because different supplements are used at all junctures of treatment. Some are purchased at BOMA-MED, while others are purchased at a health food store.
Q: How often do I need to have consultations?
A: Consultations are based on the progress of the individual. It will typically start at one-week intervals and then move to two weeks, three weeks, four weeks and so forth.
