Cleansing the colon is believed to remove toxins accumulated in the gastrointestinal tract that can cause several health complications, like asthma, allergies and arthritis, according to MayoClinic.com. While there is a conclusive lack of scientific data as to whether colon cleansing is actually effective, there are certain fruit juices that may help to assist in cleansing. You should always consult your physician prior to starting any detox regimen.
Lemon Juice
Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides a nutritive boost for your colon and can help remove impurities from the digestive tract, according to Dr. Edward Group in his book "Health Begins in the Colon." Lemon is naturally antiseptic, which can reduce pathogenic bacteria in the colon, help the bowels to eliminate waste more effectively and stimulate the liver for enhanced enzyme production for detoxification. This is due to the presence of flavonoids called limonins, which are potent compounds that may prevent cancer and other carcinogens from infiltrating the colon.
Apple Juice
Raw, unfiltered apple juice encourages colon health. Unlike juice cocktails or commercial products, raw apple juice still contains the fleshy tissue and usually does not contain added sugar, which can impede regular digestion. Apples contain 3 g of fiber and are approximately 85 percent water, according to Audrey Ensminger in her book Foods and Nutrition Encyclopedia. They help in the cleansing process by promoting regular bowel movements while providing the antioxidant vitamins A and C to fight oxidative stress.
Orange Juice
Fresh orange juice, not those made from concentrate, can help with your colon-cleansing regimen. Author Franca Bianchini says in "Fruits and Vegetables" that regularly drinking orange juice may help to lower your risk of colon tumor development by 22 percent. This is most likely due to the abundance of vitamin C, which actively blocks damage caused by metabolism and the environment. Bianchinin recommends drinking orange juice varieties with pulp to garner extra phytochemicals present in the fleshy tissue.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Colon Cleansing: Is It Helpful or Harmful?
- "Health Begins in the Colon"; Edward Group, M.D; 2007
- Foods and Nutrition Encylopedia; Audrey Ensminger; 2004
- "Fruits and Vegetables"; Franca Bianchini; 2003



Member Comments