Colon cleansing, also called "detox" or cleansing diets, are programs that claim to detoxify the digestive tract, improve energy and wellness and enhance weight loss. According to Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist, Michael Picco, M.D., the body is designed to "cleanse" itself on its own and cleansing programs may provide few, if any, benefits. Such programs also pose risks for serious side effects. Doctor's guidance is suggested for people interested in colon cleansing.
Nutrient Deficiency
Nutrients reaped from food support brain function, physical energy, mood balance and an array of other significant human functions. Colon cleansing programs generally involve several days or more of food restriction, or fasting on water or other liquids alone. As a result, the programs may cause nutrient deficiency, according to spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association, Lona Sandon, MEd, RD. Long-term or recurrent fasting may lead to severe complications, such as various types of anemia, due to insufficient folate (a B vitamin), vitamin B12 or vitamin C intake, or osteoporosis (brittle bones), when calcium and vitamin D intake are lacking.
Cognitive Decline
The body's primary energy source is glucose, which stems from carbohydrates in food. Without proper food and glucose intake, Sandon explains, a person is likely to struggle with normal cognitive functions, such as the ability to concentrate properly. Memory skills and ability to react promptly to external stimuli may also decline. Colon cleansing programs often involve little, or more commonly, no fat intake for several days or more. Dietary fats also support healthy brain function and certain forms of fat, such as omega-3 fatty acids, must be reaped through food. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, omega-3 fats are particularly important for people with bipolar disorder, depression, attention deficit hyper activity disorder (ADHD), schizophrenia and certain forms of arthritis. For this reason, people with medical or psychological disorders may stand at heightened risk for side effects of colon cleansing.
Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalances
Numerous foods, such as fruits and vegetables, provide the body with important hydration. Though most colon cleansing diets encourage water consumption, people partaking in them may not reap sufficient amounts of fluids, which commonly results in dehydration. People who exert themselves through physical exercise during cleansing days are at higher risk for dehydration. The herbal laxative or diuretics, also called "water pills," frequently involved with colon cleansing may be harmful. According to Picco, use of these supplements raise the serious risk of severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Electrolyte imbalances occur when levels of important bodily substances that produce an electrical charge, known as electrolytes, are disputed in the body. They often cause dizziness, weakness, mental confusion and, in serious cases, negatively effects on the kidneys and heart. Severe electrolyte imbalances have been associated with death.
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