The Importance of a Detox
The large intestine, or colon, is more than just an organ to store body waste until it is ready to be expelled. As food passes through the digestive tract, nutrients are absorbed through the intestinal wall. Over time, unpassed fecal matter can build up in the colon and prevent the colon from being able to absorb nutrients properly. This buildup creates a lining of mucoid plaque. Eventually, this toxic buildup can lead to a variety of health problems, including leaky gut syndrome, chronic fatigue, depression, headaches, acne, muscle soreness and joint aches and pains.
Cleansing the colon helps to detoxify the whole body. Fasting, using fresh juices or herbs, stimulates the liver and other organs to purge stored toxins. These toxins eventually make their way to the colon. Regular colon cleansing not only eliminates toxins, but promotes healing. Dr. John Harvey Kellogg taught that 90 percent of all diseases stem from an unhealthy colon. Natural health practitioners today emphasize healthy eating and bowel habits in their healing practices.
Methods of Detox
Even though "detox" has become somewhat of a buzzword today, fasting and cleansing methods have been practiced for thousands of years. From the kriya techniques of ancient yogis to the ritual cleansing methods of the Essenes, other cultures have used fasting and cleansing on their spiritual paths for centuries. It is only since the latter part of the 20th century that western culture has begun to recognize the benefits.
There are two main ways to detoxify the body: fasting and cleansing. Fasting means to abstain from eating for a certain period of time. Some fast by drinking only water or herbal teas, while others simply abstain from solid foods but consume fresh fruit and vegetable juices during a fast. Naturopath and author of "The Miracle of Fasting" Paul Bragg calls fresh fruits and vegetables "natural cleansers." By taking in only fresh juices and herbal teas, we not only flush out the toxins, but nourish our bodies at the same time.
Cleansing occurs when the internal organs, especially the intestines, release waste and toxins. There are certain herbs that help stimulate the digestive system and encourage elimination. Cascara sagrada, psyllium husks, buckthorn, black walnut, slippery elm and aloe vera are all common ingredients in many colon cleansing products. Colonics, which are like high-powered enemas, are also a popular way ensure the colon is thoroughly cleansed. Fasting and cleansing are most effective when practiced in conjunction with one another.
How It Works
Paul Bragg explains that, "when we fast (stop eating), all the vital force that was being used to convert food into energy is now being used to flush poisons from the body." This may seem like an over-simplified statement, but many who have experienced fasting and detoxification programs will concur. The first few days of a cleanse are the most difficult as the individual struggles with hunger, and the effects of toxins being released into the body. However, this is only temporary. Dr. Richard Allen, who coined the term "mucoid plaque," states that "many people, after completing a cleanse, feel energized, uplifted and freed of old patterns, thoughts, feelings and memories that have held them back."
The first three days of a cleanse are the most difficult. Extreme hunger, headaches, restlessness and irritability are common side effects. These symptoms are referred to by naturopaths as the "healing crisis." However, after a few days, hunger will typically subside and the individual will feel lighter and have increased energy. It also helps the individual develop the discipline and will power to overcome unhealthy eating habits and addictions. Dr. Elson Haas, author of the "Master Cleanse" recommends following a seven to 10 day liquid fast three to four times per year.
Precautions
Individuals with autoimmune deficiencies, pregnant women, children and those who are underweight should not follow a complete fast. However, the vast majority of people can and should practice regular cleansing methods. Naturopaths consider fasting and cleansing the "missing link" in modern medicine.
After completing a cleanse, it is also important to eat a healthy balanced diet and not to return to bad habits. Fasting and cleansing is not a bandage for damage done by a poor diet, but an opportunity to rededicate oneself to living a healthy lifestyle.
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