Colon cleansing products claim to promote restored energy levels, restore regular bowel movements and rid your body of harmful toxins. According to the Mayo Clinic, critics say colon cleansing is often unnecessary and may cause more harm than good. The Mayo Clinic also states that most doctors do not recommend colon cleansing for detoxification. MSNBC has reported that experts warn about dangers associated with colon cleansing products.
Diarrhea and Constipation
Diarrhea and constipation often accompany symptoms of colon cleansing. While opposite of each other, one or both may occur. Colon cleansers often contain laxative-like ingredients and everyone's body will react differently to these types of ingredients. Sensitivity to these laxative-like ingredients may result in diarrhea. On the other hand, if you've had diarrhea for an extended period of time, the body will have nothing to eliminate, resulting in constipation for a period of time. Others who were once regular may experience constipation from the change in diet.
Headache and Nausea
While performing a colon cleanse, you may experience headache and nausea. Our bodies often become accustomed to having certain stimulants such as caffeine or nicotine. When these stimulants cannot stay in the body long enough, it can result in headache and nausea. Another common cause of headache and nausea is that some colon cleansers require a special diet which doesn't allow the body the proper amount of food it needs for energy.
Dehydration and Nutrient Deficiency
Colon cleansing can often lead to dehydration because of constant elimination, which causes the body to lose water. While it's important to drink plenty of water every day, this proves especially true while performing any method of detoxification. Due to diet restrictions that accompany most colon cleansers, our bodies can also become nutrient deficient and cause muscle breakdown. Becoming nutrient deficient can cause the body to become weak and unable to fight inflammation and infections according to Lona Sandon, the spokesperson and dietitian for the American Dietetic Association.
Medication Interference
Colon cleansing can also interfere with medications certain users may take. Birth control, for example, which is normally taken once per day, needs to stay in a woman's system long enough for maximum effectiveness. Many birth control inserts even warn that if a woman has diarrhea, is vomiting or is on certain antibiotics, a backup method of birth control should be used as these conditions can minimize the effectiveness of the medication. If performing a colon cleanse, consult with your physician or pharmacist to see if there may be potential interference with any medications you may be taking.
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