Colon cleansing practices date back as far as Ancient Greece. Cleansing the colon and large intestines became popular here in the US during the 1920s and 1930s. But as theories for colon cleansing lost its support, it then fell out of favor. Performing a colon cleanse detox using teas, colon irrigation, and at home kits however have recently experienced a resurgence in popularity.
The big question still stands: is colon cleansing good for you? Do you need it? It is still a hotly debated topic with research showing evidence of both pros and cons for colon cleansing. But for now, here is some information that might help you decide whether or not colon cleansing is good for you.
Methods of Natural Colon Cleansing
There are two main colon cleansing methods: colon cleansing products and colon irrigation. Powdered or liquid colon cleansing supplements: These are supplements used to cleanse the colon by mouth or rectum. The main idea is to force the colon to expel its contents. These products can be found on the internet, health food stores, pharmacies, or supermarkets and include:
- Enemas
- Strong herbal teas
- Laxatives
- Antiparasite capsules
- enzymes
- powders
Colon irrigation (high colonics) method
The first modern colonic machine was invented around 100 years ago. Today, colon therapists perform colon irrigations. Colon irrigations are like enemas but involve much more water and none of the discomfort and odor. While you lie on a table, a machine flushes up to 20 gallons of water through a tube inserted in your rectum.
After the water is in your colon, the therapist massages your abdomen, and then the therapist flushes out the wastes and liquids through another tube. The process may be repeated and will last to up to an hour.
The practitioner uses a variety of water temperatures and pressures and may or may not combine water with enzymes, coffee, herbs or probiotics. Probiotics are supplements containing beneficial bacteria.
Goals of Natural Colon Cleansing
Health claims made by producers of colon cleansing products and colon irrigation practitioners are broad. The main goal is to clear the colon of large quantities of toxic waste stuck to colon walls. By clearing the intestinal tract of this unwanted fecal matter, the body is detoxified of harmful bacteria and impurities enhancing the body’s vitality.
Other goals include:
- Improves mental outlook
- Weight reduction
- Reduces the risk of colon cancer
- Promotes a healthy immune system
How you can enhance your colon health
Increasing fiber intake can help with a wide range of gastrointestinal problems, including constipation, colorectal cancer and diverticular disease. Eating insoluble fiber such as cereal and whole grains, and soluble fiber like bran, fruit, oatmeal and vegetables is ideal. Drink plenty of fluids, but drink alcohol in moderation. Avoid tobacco and limit your red meat intake. Get your colon screened at age 50 or earlier if advised by a doctor.
