The colon, or large intestine, supports the absorption of water during digestion while bacteria in the colon produce vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. When there is a lack of fluid or fiber in the diet, constipation or diarrhea may develop and can lead to bloating, gas, and discomfort. Some individuals have resorted to colon cleansing to resolve such issues, but according to MayoClinic.com, such colon cleansing medications, which may contain harsh diuretics and laxatives, could lead to dangerous electrolyte imbalances or severe dehydration that could be harmful to health. Therefore, it is safer to use natural methods to cleanse the colon.
Eat Plenty of Fiber
MayoClinic.com suggests that eating plenty of fiber, found in whole grain foods, fruits, vegetables, and legumes, can aid natural colon cleansing. Dietary fiber increases the density of stool and softens it, thus making it easier to pass and decreasing risk of constipation. Eating sufficient fiber in the diet, at least 25g of fiber each day has been found to lower risk of developing hemorrhoids and diverticular disease, which both involve inflammation of the colon that can be painful and harmful to overall health. Prebiotic fibers, found in foods such as onions, garlic, bananas, leeks, artichokes, asparagus, and yams have shown to potentially aid bacterial growth in the large intestine, which may maintain normal bowel function, according to Jackson-Siegelbaum Gastroenterology.
Drink Enough Water
According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, consumption of too many alcoholic, carbonated, or caffeinated beverages can lead to dehydration, which can cause constipation. The Royal Women's Hospital recommends drinking 7 to 8 cups of water a day to maintain normal bowel function. Sufficient hydration will help develop stool that passes easier through the colon, which in turn, will lower risk of developing constipation and intestinal discomfort.
Regular Exercise
Exercising on a regular basis, such as walking 30 minutes a day outside of daily activities, can help stimulate muscles in the bowel and thus promote normal bowel function, according to the Royal Women's Hospital.
Other Natural Ways to Colon Cleanse
Certain medications, abuse of laxatives, or food intolerances, according to the National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse, can cause problems in the colon such as constipation. Therefore, revision of medication use or avoidance of certain foods can aid improved bowel function. In addition, some individuals with chronic constipation or other colon disorders may require biofeedback, in which a sensor monitors muscle activity, in order to identify any dysfunctions in the colon that may be causing health problems. Health care professionals will be able to use such information to decide the necessary treatment to help retrain the intestinal muscles to work properly so that the colon can cleanse itself naturally.
References
- The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library: Large Intestine
- MayoClinic.com: Colon cleansing: Is it helpful or harmful?
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Constipation
- MayoClinic.com: Dietary fiber: Essential for a healthy diet
- Jackson-Siegelbaum Gastroenterology: High Fiber Diet
- The Royal Women's Hospital: Normal bowel function
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