Colon cleansing is essentially a process of detoxifying the gastrointestinal tract. It's believed that toxins and parasites can accumulate within the large intestines from the food you eat and even the air you breathe. Over time, this results in a lowered immune system, contributing to health conditions like arthritis and asthma. However, the Mayo Clinic explains that your digestive tract is completely equipped to eliminate waste, toxins and bacteria all on its own, and cleansing may have a harmful effect on your health.
Dehydration
Dehydration is a potential side effect of colon cleansing, according to the Swedish Medical Center. The ingredients that stimulate the movement of the bowels can increase the amount of fluid lost in your stool. As waste moves through the colon, fluid is being absorbed by the intestinal walls. With the increased passage of waste, less absorption takes place, resulting not only in loose stools, but also the potential for dehydration.
Dehydration commonly causes thirst, decreased urination, headache, weakness, dizziness and lightheadedness. If severe, it can cause fever, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, delirium and unconsciousness. To avoid this sometimes dangerous side effect, drink plenty of fluids during a colon cleanse.
Dependency
Colon cleansers containing stimulant laxatives may cause an acquired dependency, explains the Colon Cleansing and Constipation Resource Center. The longer you use a product with this type of active ingredient, the harder it becomes to produce regular bowel movements without it. This is partly due to your body growing accustomed to the substance. It also has something to do with the muscles of your colon. From prolonged use, the muscles actually lose some of their tone, making it more and more difficult to pass stool.
Electrolyte Elevation
The Mayo Clinic cautions that certain colon cleansing products can elevate electrolytes in the body, especially those containing sodium phosphate. Electrolytes are basically minerals in your blood and bodily fluids. When electrolytes are out of balance, it can change the pH of your blood as well as the amount of water in your body, notes the National Institutes of Health. An elevation in electrolytes can be dangerous for people suffering from heart disease or kidney disease.
Potassium Depletion
Colon cleansing has been known to deplete potassium levels in the blood, asserts the Colon Cleansing and Constipation Resource Center. This is dangerous because potassium is crucial for proper nerve and muscle function. While abnormally low levels can lead to fatigue, cramping, weakness and constipation, it may also have harmful effects on the muscles of the heart, resulting in abnormal heart rhythms, warns the Mayo Clinic.
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