The prevalence of artificial additives and preservatives in the typical modern diet leads to worry about negative health effects. Proponents of colon cleansing claim that environmental toxins accumulate in the digestive system and cause gastrointestinal distress, fatigue and irritability. Following a natural colon cleansing diet eliminates these toxins and restores good health. However, speak with your doctor before starting this diet to make sure it would be appropriate for you.
Significance
Our bodies are exposed to foreign chemicals from trace pesticides, additives, preservatives, air pollution and household cleaners. The purpose of a natural colon cleanse is to flush your digestive system, sweeping away toxins and excess waste. Following a colon cleansing diet promotes frequent bowel movements that facilitate this process.
Features
When following a colon cleanse diet, eliminate all processed foods from your meals. Avoid meat products, coffee, alcohol and junk food; these foods exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms. Instead, eat small portions of fresh, organic fruits and vegetables. Whole-grain products that contain high fiber content promote frequent bowel movements that clear the colon. Dieters drink large quantities of water, fruit juice and vegetable juice to flush the digestive system.
Herbal Supplements
Some colon cleanse proponents recommend taking herbal supplements to flush the colon of toxins. Cascara sagrada, chickweed and senna act as laxatives to clear excess waste from the colon. Psyllium husk or seeds, slippery elm and peppermint restore the health of digestive tissue and diminish gastrointestinal distress. Begin taking herbal supplements after two or three days on the colon cleanse diet and continue for at least one week. Only use these supplements if your doctor gives you the okay.
Benefits
Dieters claim a natural colon cleanse eliminates gastrointestinal distress, increases energy levels and decreases fatigue. Alive reports that colon cleansing helps reduce symptoms of bladder infections, yeast infections, kidney infections, nail fungus, bad breath and abdominal cramps. Some colon cleanse proponents say they experience a boost in mood following a natural cleanse.
Warning
There is little scientific evidence to support the efficacy of natural colon cleansing, reports MayoClinic.com. While eliminating processed foods from your diet may improve energy levels and overall health, these effects are not necessarily due to flushing environmental toxins from the digestive tract. People who undertake a natural colon cleanse run the risk of becoming dehydrated from too frequent bowel movements. Talk to your doctor before beginning a cleanse because it may be harmful to your health.
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