The dual-action colon cleanse is advertised as a two-part colon irrigation system that removed excess toxins from your intestines while purifying your body. Promoters claim the dual-action cleanse is the "ultimate" colon cleanse product that's crucial for health and wellness. However, health experts say colon cleansers are unnecessary and may even be unsafe.
History
A colon cleanser product known as the Dual-Action Cleanse® was developed by herbalist and self-proclaimed nutritional expert, Klee Irwin. The Dual-Action Cleanse® has been on the market since the mid 1990's. The company says the dual-action cleansing formula is based on extensive research and testing to maximize the effects of internal cleansing. The colon cleansers typically come in tablet form. As of November, 2010 a basic kit sold for about $80.
Theories/Speculation
Dual-action colon cleansing is supposed to work by removing body impurities with the herb cascara sagrada, followed by detoxifying herbal tonics like milk thistle. Cascarda sagrada is suggested to relieve constipation and promote regular bowel movements. Milk thistle contains a flavonoid called silymarin that appears to protect the liver from toxins, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center or UMMC.
Promoters of Dual-Action Cleanse products claim they are specially designed to eliminate toxins and undigested matter that supposedly amass in the colon and relieve gas and bloating.
Expert Insight
Colon cleansing products are unnecessary because the digestive system is perfectly capable of naturally eliminating toxins from the body, reports the Mayo Clinic. Natural bacteria produced by the body is all that's needed to detoxify food waste from the digestive tract. The colon naturally sloughs off old cells every few days and your liver is responsible for neutralizing toxins. Doctors generally don't advise colon cleansing for detoxification. They are typically recommended only as preparation for medical procedures like a colonoscopy.
Warning
At least one user of Dual-Action Cleanse® has been hospitalized with severe abdominal pain, reports the website InfomericalWatch.org. Some colon cleansers may increase your risk of dehydration and lead to a rise in electrolytes which can be especially harmful for people with heart or kidney disease.
Outlook
Getting regular exercise, eating a fiber-rich diet that includes whole grains, vegetables and fruits; and drinking several glasses of water each day can help prevent constipation, notes the Mayo Clinic. Try to spend at least 30 minutes engaged in some form of aerobic exercise like walking or swimming most days of the week.
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