The body's digestive system is a self-regulating, self-cleaning system. From the time when food enters the body to the point when it leaves, the body's chemicals maintain a healthy inner environment, as explained by University of Illinois-Chicago Emeritus Professor Kelvin Rodolfo. Alternative health enthusiasts champion colon hydrotherapy for its cleansing and purifying benefits, but the practice can upset that natural balance in the lower intestine. The procedure, which involves flushing the colon with warm water, can be dangerous to administer and in the short-term health of the recipient.
Toxicity
Poorly cleaned equipment may be the biggest danger. Colonics are administered using a tube, inserted into the rectum. A speculum is typically used to open the anus to facilitate the tube's insertion. If the pieces used are not cleaned correctly, bacterial illnesses--E.coli, streptococcal or staph infections, among others--can be transferred from patient to patient. Non-disposable metal equipment should be sterilized in an autoclave.
Colon Damage
The person giving the colonic must rely on the patient to cue when his colon has been filled with water. It is very possible for a person to not know his limit and allow too much water to be dispensed, leading to tears in the colon wall. This may have a doubly harmful effect, as an open wound in the intestinal wall permits harmful bacteria from human waste to enter the bloodstream, causing an infection. Bowel perforation due to colonics, according to Quack Watch, has led to death in a handful of cases.
Digestive Harm and Dehydration
Flushing the colon with large amounts of water will remove feces and other particles in the colon. Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist Dr. Michael Picco writes that it will also remove the good bacteria which aides in digestion of food. During the next meal, pain or stomach cramps may occur as the body tries to process food without the bacteria. Additionally, rapid flushing of the colon may lead to water loss. Unabsorbed water in the intestine is washed away, depriving the body of essential fluids. The potential exists for electrolyte imbalance and heart failure.
Allergic Reaction
Typical colonics use water warmed to the body's temperature. Some practitioners add herbs or laxatives to the water to aid in cleansing. Allergies to the additives can lead to reactions on the practitioner's table similar to a drug interaction. These may include intense stomach cramps, fever or nausea. There is no licensing for colon hydrotherapists, meaning medical reactions could go unnoticed.
Member Comments