The practice of colon cleansing, once popular among ancient Greeks and Egyptians, has recently seen a resurgence in popularity. While colon cleansing tablet manufacturers praise the practice as a way to improve health, many medical professionals remain skeptical. If you're considering taking colon cleansing tablets, consult a doctor first to make sure the ingredients don't pose a health risk for you.
General Information
Generally, most colon cleansing tablets on the market contain blends of herbs, including herbal laxatives such as senna and cascara. Harvard's "Health Beat" magazine notes that most colon cleansing supplements sold online cost somewhere $20 and $70 for a one month supply, and most supplement manufacturers suggest continuing a colon cleansing regimen for two to three months at a time.
Claims
The proponents of colon cleansing claim that taking colon cleansing tablets will detoxify your body by getting rid of bad bacteria and built-up fecal matter that accumulates on the intestinal walls. Many supplement manufacturers market the tablets as a way to lose weight, cure constipation and irritable bowel syndrome, increase energy and prevent certain diseases.
Safety
The American Council on Science and Health notes that "all natural" does not necessarily mean "all safe," and you should therefore use caution when taking colon cleansing tablets. Federal regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have no legal authority to regulate herbal products not classified as drugs, and manufacturers do not have to prove the safety of their products before putting them on the market. This leaves an inherent risk associated with herbal supplements, because the potency and safety of these products do not require verification.
Criticism
"In general, I think the idea of colon cleansing is akin to people selling snake oil," says gastroenterologist Raymond Cross, director of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Program at Baltimore's University of Maryland School of Medicine. Columbia University Health Services further notes that no credible scientific evidence exists to support the claimed benefits or effectiveness of colon cleansing, and your liver and kidneys already remove toxins on a daily basis, which makes cleansing unnecessary.
Warning
Harvard's "Health Beat" magazine warns of the risks associated with colon cleansing tablets, including electrolyte imbalance, dehydration, disruption of intestinal flora and impaired bowel function. The American Council on Science and Health also urges those taking prescription medications to use caution due to the risk of unpleasant or harmful interactions.
Suggestions
Instead of buying expensive colon cleansing tablets, Columbia University Health Services suggests improving your colon health through lifestyle changes. Eat a healthy, balanced diet that includes adequate amounts of fruits and vegetables and limit your intake of saturated fat and red meat. Additionally, commit to a regular exercise routine, drink alcohol in moderation and don't smoke.
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