Colon cleansing is said to help rid the body of toxins that cause a variety of health problems, promote healthy intestinal bacteria, boost your energy and improve the immune system. But there is little scientific evidence to support these benefits. Some critics of the practice say colon cleansing may even cause harm. It may increase your risk of dehydration and salt depletion. Some laxatives used for colon cleansing can disrupt your body's electrolyte balance, which can eventually lead to anemia, malnutrition and heart failure. An electrolyte imbalance is also dangerous for people who have kidney or heart disease.
Function
Practitioners say the colon needs to be cleared out and kept clean of toxic substances periodically. Medical experts, however, point out that the digestive system itself does a good job at eliminating waste material and bacteria on its own. That is what it is supposed to do. So taking special steps to do your own colon cleansing is not necessary.
Effects
Interfering with the natural process may cause problems in your body. The colon works naturally to shed old cells, absorb nutrients and keep a delicate balance of bacteria and natural chemicals. This healthy balance could be destroyed using artificial methods to clean the colon.
Considerations
If the equipment being used to flush your colon is not clean, it can cause infections. There is also the dangerous risk of breaking the colon wall, which can lead to death. Some colon cleansing methods include an intake of a lot of water. This can lead to a chemical imbalance in the body, resulting in nausea or illness.
Benefits
Some doctors may recommend colon cleansing as a preparation for medical procedures, including a colonoscopy and other examinations. But they usually do not recommend it for detoxification measures.
Warning
If you do consider a colon cleansing, you should check with your doctor, especially if you have any health concerns. Any equipment being used should be disposable and not previously used. Know the specific herbal ingredients and amounts being used in any colon-cleansing products. Make sure they will not cause health problems. Don't believe everything you hear about colon cleansing and what it can do for you. Do your homework and check with medical experts, especially your own private physician. It is best to drink plenty of fluids, eat a high-fiber diet and get regular exercise to treat any problems with constipation.
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