Detoxification treatments like colon cleansers have been around for thousands of years as a way to rid the body of accumulated toxins, eradicate disease and improve overall health and wellness. In recent years, colon cleansers have experienced a surge in popularity and can be found online, in health food stores or their formulas outlined in books. From colon cleansing pills to special detoxifying diets to colonic irrigation, there are a number of techniques that fall under the umbrella term of colon cleansers.
While the medical community has yet to endorse colon cleansing as a way to improve health, this alternative health therapy is a fast growing industry with many devoted fans. But despite the popularity, colon cleansers have come under scrutiny for their alleged health claims and their manufacturers sometimes bogus sales practices.
Function
The reasoning behind colon cleanses has to do with the build up of toxins and debris, which over time accumulates in the digestive tract. These toxins are believed to be the result of an unhealthy and overly processed diet, stress, lack of exercise and environmental pollutants. Colon cleanses are meant to clear out this impacted waste leaving the individual feeling lighter and healthier.
Colon cleanse techniques are intended to support the growth of healthy bacteria in the digestive tract, thereby improving digestion and providing relief to conditions like constipation, bloating and gas. Some colon cleansing treatments claim to extend their benefits far beyond the digestive system by promising to improve the immune system's strength, give a boost to energy levels, shed pounds, enhance nutrient absorption and clear up acne while some even go as far as to allege to prevent diseases like colon cancer and irritable bowel syndrome.
Colon cleanses work by creating a laxative effect in the digestive tract. Most colon cleanses contain a variety of plant-based fibers that adhere to the fecal matter in the colon and facilitate its movement out of the large intestine.
Ingredients
The ingredients of colon cleansers are as varied as the various detoxification products and techniques. Most colon cleanses uses extracts of natural herbs and plant-based fibers. All colon cleanser ingredients are intended to promote regular bowel movements and remove built-up fecal matter from the gastrointestinal tract.
The most common natural ingredients are psyllium husk, senna leaf, betonite clay and cascara sagrada. Other popular ingredients are fennel, turmeric, licorice root ginger and flax seeds.
Techniques
Colon cleanses can be performed in a variety of ways. Colonic irrigations and enemas are performed by certified colon hydrotherapists. During this process, filtered water is slowly released into the colon causing the muscles to contract. The contracted muscles then dislodge accumulated fecal matter through a sterile and disposable speculum.
Other colon cleanses are taken via a supplement form in which the ingredients are pulverized into a powder form and encased in a digestible gelatin capsule. Most pill versions of colon cleanses are taken according to specific directions outlined on the product's bottle. A special diet, such as eating only fruits and vegetables, or eliminating certain foods may also be recommended.
Colon cleanses may also take the form of special beverages and dilutions. The Master Cleanse, a combination of lemon juice, cayenne pepper and maple syrup is a very well-recognized detoxification treatment. Liquid versions of colon cleanses are often consumed in place of meals.
Since most colon cleanses have a strong laxative effect, consuming copious amounts of water throughout the duration of the cleanse is strongly recommended in order to prevent dehydration.
Pros and Cons
Despite their popularity, there are a number of health concerns over the safety of colon cleansers. Herbal ingredients may interact with prescription medicines and overuse may lead to a dependency, making it increasingly difficult for someone to maintain regular digestive and elimination habits.
Cleanses can also increase risk for dehydration and electrolyte imbalances if they greatly deplete the body of fluids. Colon cleanses that rely on equipment, such as enemas and colonic therapies, may not only cause damage to the rectum but if not cleaned properly, the devices can cause a serious infection like ameobiasis. Therefore, it is always important to first discuss using any kind of a colon cleansing procedure or product with a medical doctor.
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