There are a variety of colon cleanses on the market that are purported to help clear out toxins from the body and reinvigorate health. One cost-effective and simple colon cleanse consists of warm water and salt, otherwise known as the saltwater flush. Proponents of this cleanse say it flushes out the system quickly and efficiently, while opponents note its high sodium content and its intense effect on the body.
Before embarking on this or any other colon cleanse, check with your doctor, as the cleanse may be harmful to your health.
History
According to the book, "Juice Alive: The Ultimate Guide to Juicing Remedies," authors Steven Bailey and Larry Trivieri contend that saltwater flushing has been used in India for thousands of years. It is known in India's traditional medicine, Ayurveda, as "Varisara Dhauti," translated as "washing of the intestines." Besides its use in Ayurveda, western naturopathic physicians and other alternative healers may sometimes recommended a saltwater flush as a way to handle constipation or to aid in cleansing the colon.
Significance
Bailey and Trivieri also note some of the reasons why warm water with salt, or saltwater flushes, may have advantages over other ways of cleansing the system, including enemas. One reason is that saltwater flushes are easy to do without purchasing any ingredients other than salt and purified water. Also, they can be performed both during a longer cleanse, where less food is consumed than normal, and while eating a normal diet. Finally, saltwater flushes cleanse the entire gastrointestinal system, while enemas primarily only cleanse the lower intestines.
Features
The saltwater flush is a relatively easy way to cleanse the colon. According to Peter Glickman in his book, "Lose Weight, Have More Energy & Be Happier in 10 Days," the flush consists of drinking a quart of warm water with two teaspoons of non-iodized sea salt first thing in the morning. A half hour to an hour later, elimination usually occurs, so it is advised to stay near an available bathroom. These eliminations usually last for up to an hour.
Time Frame
Drinking saltwater to cleanse the colon produces almost immediate results. Elimination should occur quickly, within a half hour to an hour. If no elimination occurs within two hours, another quart of saltwater with two teaspoons of salt may be necessary, but no more than this amount. The saltwater flush can be taken every morning during a longer cleanse, or if necessary during the day during non-fasting times.
Considerations
According to Dr. Andrew Weil, the amount of sodium contained in a saltwater flush may be harmful to your health. Those suffering from high blood pressure may be negatively affected by this type of cleanse. Weil recommends instead to focus on good nutrition, exercise and healthy lifestyle habits, and that the colon and body will generally cleanse itself.
References
- "Juice Alive: The Ultimate Guide to Juicing Remedies"; Steven Bailey and Larry Trivieri; 2006
- "Lose Weight, Have More Energy & Be Happier in 10 Days"; Peter Glickman; 2005
- "Dr. Weil.com": Sea-Salt Flush: What's the Best Cleansing Regime?
Member Comments