Maintaining a colon free of toxins, harmful organisms and excessive waste is essential to sustain health and prevent disease. Yet cleansing the colon is controversial. Carol Burke, M.D., at the Cleveland Clinic believes the body detoxifies itself through a daily bowel movement, normal liver function and bacteria in the colon. Michael Picco, M.D., at the Mayo Clinic suggests that people who cleanse their colon should consult a doctor, drink plenty of water and other fluids, eat a high-fiber diet, exercise, identify ingredients in any cleansing product, beware of false claims and use disposable cleansing equipment.
Steps
Step 1
Drink one to two gallons per day of purified water, fresh fruit and vegetable juices.
Step 2
Consume a diet that includes fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, yogurt with probiotics and fiber such as psyllium. Probiotics and prebiotics taken together can improve colon health and reduce the risk of cancer, according to research in the International Journal of Molecular Science. Probiotics are live friendly bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium families of bacteria often found in yogurt. Prebiotics are indigestible food such as oligosaccharides that are part of fruits and whole grains that can stimulate growth of friendly bacteria in the colon. Psyllium is an excellent fiber supplement that can increase frequency of stools, according to scientists in a study published in "Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics."
Step 3
Exercise daily at a gym, swimming poor or outdoor park. Exercise can reduce risk of colon cancer, according to research in "Current Sports Medicine Reports." Consult your doctor for the best program.
Step 4
Add a colon cleanse product to your diet per your doctor's instruction. You can add a colon cleanse product to drinks or food and purchase it at a health-food store or pharmacy.
Step 5
Take an enema if you are constipated. One- to two-quart enemas can irrigate the rectum and lower bowel. Follow the product's directions.
Step 6
Supplement your diet with electrolytes to replenish levels of potassium, calcium, magnesium and other minerals that could be removed from your body with cleansing products or enemas.
Step 7
Practice relaxation techniques. Relaxation can stimulate your immune system.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid drinking coffee or alcohol because these substances can cause dehydration. Eat fresh organic foods because they are free of pesticides. Avoid consuming processed foods because they contain little fiber. Take enemas in the early mornings or at least two hours before or after meals.
- Consult your doctor about your health before starting a colon cleansing program. Burke warns that colon cleansing with enemas increases the risk of perforating the rectum that could require surgery.
Things You'll Need
- Water filter
- Juicer
- Fresh produce
- Whole grains
- Probiotic yogurt
- Psyllium
- Electrolyte supplements
- Gym, swimming pool or park
- Colon cleanse product
- Enema bag, nozzle, hose and clamp
References
- Cleveland Clinic: Debunking the Myths of Colon Cleansing
- Mayo Clinic: Colon Cleansing: Is It Helpful or Harmful?
- "International Journal of Molecular Science"; Roles of Probiotics Prebiotics; Liong, M.T.; May 2008
- "Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics"; Effects of Psyllium Therapy; Ashraf, W.; Dec 1995
- "Current Sports Medicine Reports"; Exercise and Colon Cancer; Trojian, T.H.; April 2007
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