Colon cleansing involves following a restrictive diet plan to flush the digestive system of waste. Men benefit from colon cleansing by shedding extra pounds and experiencing reduced gastrointestinal distress. Before beginning a colon cleanse diet, talk to your doctor. Some cleansing practices may be harmful to your health.
Significance
The typical modern diet contains many processed, high-calorie foods. According to the Palo Alto Medical Foundation, only 4 percent of men eat the recommended nine servings of fruits and vegetables each day. Eating unhealthy foods increases intake of fertilizers, trace pesticides, food additives, preservatives and hormones. These chemicals may build up in the colon, causing weight gain, bloating, fatigue and gastrointestinal distress. A colon cleanse alleviates these symptoms by flushing the digestive tract of harmful waste.
Features
Begin your colon cleanse by eliminating all processed, fatty and high-calorie foods from your diet. The majority of your meals should consist of fruits and vegetables. These foods are high in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that boost energy and increase overall health. The website My Vegan Diet Plan recommends eating several servings of citrus fruits daily for their detoxifying properties. Supplement your meals with small amounts of whole grains, lean protein or nonfat dairy products. Avoid all caffeine and alcohol for the duration of the cleanse. A typical colon cleanse lasts three weeks.
Considerations
Several companies market colon cleansing tonics specifically formulated for men. These products are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, making them potentially dangerous. Taking a mild herbal laxative promotes frequent bowel movements that effectively cleanse the colon, according to Just Cleansing. Talk to a doctor or nutritionist before taking an herbal supplement to determine if it is safe for your body.
Benefits
Most dieters lose weight while following a colon cleanse plan. According to My Vegan Diet Plan, men may lose from 4 to 20 lb of fat during a detoxifying cleanse. Clearing the digestive system of excess waste decreases bloating, puffiness, abdominal pain and other gastrointestinal problems. The website Alive reports that colon cleansing may improve constipation, bad breath, nail fungus and bladder infections.
Misconceptions
Many doctors believe that colon cleansing is unnecessary and possibly dangerous. The Mayo Clinic reports that no scientific evidence suggests that a colon cleanse alleviates gastrointestinal symptoms. The digestive system naturally neutralizes toxins and clears itself of excess waste, making colon cleansing unnecessary. Taking laxatives and following a cleanse diet may leave your body dangerously dehydrated. Talk to a doctor before beginning a cleanse, because she can suggest a healthier way to reduce your symptoms and lose weight.
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