The colon is the part of your digestive tract that is involved in the final aspects of fluid absorption and bodily waste excretion. According to Total Helath, when you experience constipation, your body may be reabsorbing toxins from your stool. Poor diet and certain intestinal conditions can also lead to a build up of mucoid plaque that sticks to the walls of your colon and further negatively affects your digestive health. A colon cleanse can help remove intestinal residue and toxic build up, thereby improving your intestinal health. Since a colon cleanse is not recommended if you have certain health conditions, consult with your health care practitioner prior to starting a cleanse.
Psyllium
Psyllium seeds come from the plantain plant, which has long historical medical and culinary use in Aboriginal cultures. One plantain plant can produce more than 10,000 psyllium seeds. According to the Healthy & Natural Journal, psyllium is a bulk fiber that becomes mucilage when you add it to liquid. Psyllium is a non-absorbable fiber that has laxative effects and can act like a broom that sweeps toxins out of your body as it passes through your colon. This fiber may also help improve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and colitis. Consult with your health care provider prior to using psyllium.
Aloe Leaf
Folk medicine healers have used aloe leaves, roots, flowers, bark and fruit to treat a myriad of health issues. According to Total Health, aloe vera has anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, antiseptic and antioxidant effects. Aloe vera juice is made from the leaves and can have a laxative effect. This juice may also improve gastrointestinal upset, indigestion and irritable bowel syndrome. The laxative properties of aloe juice can help your body release trapped toxins in your intestines and colon. Consult with your health care provider prior to using aloe leaf.
Flax Seed
Flax seed is a brownish-golden colored seed that comes from flax, which is a common garden plant with blue flowers and a slender stem. When you soak flax seeds in liquid they become mucilaginous. According to Sentient Times, this jelly-like quality gives flax seed its intestinal cleansing and bowel regulating properties. Fresh ground flax seeds have the best colon cleansing effects. Take 1/4 cup per 100 lbs of body weight of freshly ground flax seeds. These seeds contain the added benefit of omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to healthy skin, hair, nails and brain function. Consult with your health care provider prior to using flax seed.
Diet
According to the Canadian Journal of Health & Nutrition, modifying your diet is an important aspect of any successful cleanse. Avoid all processed, prepared and pre-packaged foods from your diet. Stay away from fast food, alcohol, caffeine, red meat, sugar, artificial sweeteners, white rice and pasta, soda pop and baked goods. Focus on eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, plant proteins and fresh herbs. You can also eat small portions of organic chicken and wild caught fish for additional protein. Furthermore, drink plenty of fresh, filtered water. Consult with your health care provider prior to incorporating a cleansing diet. (ref #5)
References
- "Total Health: A Clean Start;" Joyce Luteyn; 2007
- "Healthy & Natural Journal: The Psecrets of Psyllium;" Eugene Zampeiron and Ellen Kamhi; 1999
- "Sentient Times: Flax Seed;" Rebecca Wood; 2002
- "Total Health: Amazing Benefits of Aloe Vera;" May 2007
- "Alive: The Canadian Journal of Health & Nutrition;" Stuart Harries; 2010
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