Detoxification of the Colon
Overview
Do you suffer from symptoms like nausea, fatigue, insomnia, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, allergies or body aches? The Colon Cleanse Association (CCA) believes that colon toxicity caused by chronic constipation is the hidden source of these and many other common illnesses. According to the CCA, detoxifying the colon may help relieve your symptoms and improve your overall health.
Purpose
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), an estimated 4 million Americans suffer from frequent constipation. According to the CCA, this is because people today are more sedentary and often have poor diets that are high in processed food content and low in vital nutrients. Chronic constipation allows large quantities of old waste material and harmful bacteria to accumulate in your colon, causing colon toxicity. Colon toxicity occurs when your body absorbs poisonous substances contained in the waste buildup. These substances ultimately enter your bloodstream and travel throughout your body. Colon detoxification products serve to loosen up and expel this harmful waste material.
Effects
The CCA asserts that detoxifying the colon helps to relieve constipation, reduce the occurrence of uncomfortable gas, relieve painful abdominal cramps and remove other harmful substances from your body like mercury, lead and drug residues. According to the CCA, by removing these harmful substances, detoxification of the colon can help improve your digestive functioning, increase your energy and boost your immune system.
Methods
Colon detoxification products are available as over-the-counter pills, powders and teas that you can use at home. These supplements typically include herbal ingredients like aloe, fennel and ginger root. They can also contain laxatives like bentonite clay. Professional colonic irrigation procedures are administered in a doctor's office. During this procedure, the practitioner uses a tube to flush water into your colon and remove any waste buildup.
Skeptics
Not all health care professionals advocate the use of colon detoxification products and procedures. Little evidence exists that either proves or disproves the efficacy and safety of colon detoxification. According to the Mayo Clinic, detoxification of the colon is not necessary, because your body's natural bowel movements are designed to cleanse your system of harmful bacteria and waste products.
Warnings
The Mayo Clinic cautions that detoxification of the colon can be dangerous for some individuals. This is because long-term laxative use can upset the natural rhythm of your digestive system and eventually cause dehydration, nutrient loss and electrolyte imbalances. Other potential side effects include diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, vomiting, heart problems and kidney problems. The herbal ingredients contained in many colon detoxification products have the potential to interfere with prescription medications that you may be taking. Talk to your doctor before using any colon detoxification product for the first time.
