Colon cleansing, also known as "colonic irrigation," is touted to remove toxins from your gastrointestinal tract, thereby preventing numerous ailments like allergies, asthma and arthritis, reports the Mayo Clinic. Colon cleansing is also said to increase energy levels and improve your immune system. Several safety precautions should be taken into account before using colon-cleansing products.
Claims
An assortment of colon-cleansing products that contain enzymes, herbs and other ingredients are typically used daily for a period of weeks. The goal of these detoxifying agents is help clear away fecal matter that supposedly builds up and sticks to the intestinal walls and rid the body of parasites, notes Harvard Health Publications. Some colon-cleanser manufacturers claim their products can help relieve headaches, joint pain, bloating, depression and fatigue that's allegedly caused by the accumulation of toxins.
Misconceptions
Critics charge that colon cleansing, for reasons other than preparing for a medical procedure, is not only unnecessary but it can be harmful, reports the Mayo Clinic. This is because your digestive system is designed to naturally remove bacteria and waste material without the assistance of special colon cleansers or diets. It's also a myth that colon cleansers will help you lose weight. Colon-cleansing manufacturers don't share the fact that having more frequent bowel movements doesn't promote weight loss because the body absorbs most calories before they make it to the large intestine, points out the Cleveland Clinic.
Expert Insight
Health experts warn that not only is colon cleansing essentially a waste of time and money, it may lead to serious complications. Carol Burke, MD, Director of the Center for Colon Polyp and Cancer Prevention in Cleveland Clinic's Digestive Disease Institute, warns that complications may include rectal perforations from enema therapy and colonic irrigation, which often requires surgery. Damage to the lining of your large intestine can lead to a perforation or hole in the wall of your intestine.
Safety Precautions
Talk to your health-care provider before using colon-cleansing products. Ask for a list of herbs and other ingredients contained in any detoxification products you use. Keep in mind that colon cleansers may not live up to claims that they will improve your health or treat medical conditions. If you choose to use a colon-cleansing product, it's important to drink plenty of water and other fluids to prevent dehydration. Certain laxatives used in colon cleansing, such as those that contain sodium phosphate, can lead to a rise in electrolytes, which can have serious consequences if you have heart or kidney disease, notes Harvard Health Publications.
Cost
Laxatives, supplements and similar colon-cleansing products cost anywhere between $20 and $70 for a one-month supply, as of November 2010. Manufacturers generally recommend using the products for two to three months.
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