Digestive cleansings, also called colon cleansing, are believed to promote digestive health, weight management and overall wellness. They typically involve several days or more of juice fasting and use of laxatives, diuretics, and/or other supplements geared toward detoxifying the digestive tract. According to Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist Michael Picco, M.D., colon cleansing is not necessary, nor has it been proved safe or effective. Since digestive cleansing poses health risks, your doctor's approval is key.
Function
People partake in digestive cleansing for numerous reasons. According to Picco, proponents of digestive cleansing claim that the programs result in healthy bacterial production in the intestines, improved energy and enhanced immune system function. Participants also seek cleansing programs as a means of promoting weight loss.
Types/Features
One of the most popular digestive cleansing programs is known as the Master Cleanse, also known as the cayenne pepper diet. According to natural health expert, Andrew Weil, M.D., the Master Cleanse diet peaked in popularity after singer Beyonce Knowles touted the program on "The Oprah Winfrey Show." The program involves drinking a mixture of lemon juice, water, pure maple syrup and cayenne pepper for the course of several days or more, while fasting from food and other beverages. In addition to fasting, cleansing programs often involve use of laxatives, diuretics and/or salt water flushes--drinking salt water in order to induce bowel movements.
Effectiveness
There is a lack of evidence as to the safety and effectiveness of digestive cleansing programs. According to Picco, the body naturally "cleanses" itself, without need for fasting or use of supplements. Weight loss attained from digestive cleansing is generally temporary and due to reduced calorie intake, according to Weil, rather than the cleanse program itself. Digestive cleansing has not been proved effective at improving digestive health or other aspects of wellness.
Potential Benefits
Digestive cleansing may provide benefits to some people. According to Weil, the programs may provoke positive feelings and heighten awareness regarding what and how much food a person consumes. Digestive cleanses may also serve as exercises in self-discipline and stimulate a sense of gratitude for the many food choices people are able to make on a daily basis. Some individuals appreciate the fact that food choices and preparation are not required during cleansing days; they need only prepare and drink the beverage and supplements.
Risks/Side Effects
Digestive cleansing poses numerous risks, some of which are serious. According to Picco, use of diuretics and laxatives can trigger dehydration and electrolyte imbalances--a condition that can negatively influences heart rhythms, kidney health, the ability to concentrate, and other important body functions. Potential side effects of digestive cleansing include abdominal pain, gas, diarrhea, intense hunger, lethargy, emotional irritability and headaches. If a person loses weight during the course of a cleanse, he or she runs the risk of regaining lost weight, plus additional weight once "regular" food is reintroduced. Herbal supplements used in various cleansing programs may contain questionable ingredients that pose additional risks. Long-term or recurrent participation in digestive cleansing may result in reduced metabolism and immune system function.
