Dieters follow cleanse diet plans to eliminate dangerous toxins from their organs. A colon-cleansing diet promotes frequent bowel movements that flush excess waste from the digestive tract. Certain herbal supplements facilitate the cleansing process. Talk to a doctor before taking an herbal tonic or beginning a colon cleanse to determine if it is a healthy choice.
Purpose
The typical modern diet consists of processed, non-organic foods that contain a variety of chemicals. Trace pesticides, fertilizers, hormones, additives and preservatives enter the body and accumulate in the digestive system. MayoClinic.com reports that colon cleanse proponents claim these environmental toxins cause gastrointestinal distress, arthritis, asthma and fatigue. Following a colon cleanse diet and taking herbal supplements supposedly clear the colon of waste and improve these symptoms.
Cleansing Diet
A colon cleanse diet requires that you eliminate all processed, fatty and high-calorie foods from your diet and instead eat small amounts of organic fruits and vegetables. Consider making homemade juices and soups to boost fruit and vegetable intake. Small amounts of nonfat dairy products, soy foods and whole grains are acceptable. According to Just Cleansing, dieters should not consume any coffee, soda or alcohol for the length of the cleanse. A typical colon cleanse lasts at least one week.
Herbal Supplements
Colon cleanse dieters take herbal supplements to regulate bowel movements and improve gastrointestinal health. The website Holistic Help suggests using cascara sagrada, chickweed, senna or psyllium to promote frequent bowel movements. Slippery elm, fennel seed, aloe vera and peppermint soothe the intestine and heal the lining of the digestive tract. If you want to cleanse your colon of parasites, take wormwood, clove, pumpkin seed or black walnut hulls.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not regulate the manufacturing or sale of herbal supplements. Some preparations of herbs may be contaminated or dangerous to use. Consult a nutritionist or doctor for advice before taking any herbal tonics.
Benefits
Following a colon cleanse plan often causes dieters to lose several pounds. Frequent bowel movements clear the digestive system of excess waste, shedding pounds. In addition to weight loss, Just Cleansing reports that a colon cleanse may decrease gastrointestinal distress, boost energy levels, reduce fatigue, clear skin problems and improve your mood.
Misconceptions
Many doctors oppose colon cleanses because they are potentially dangerous. No scientific evidence suggests that colon cleansing improves health, according to MayoClinic.com. Your organs effectively neutralize toxins and eliminate excess waste, making a cleanse unnecessary. Restricting your diet and taking herbal laxatives may leave you feeling weak, dehydrated or dizzy. Consult your doctor before beginning a colon cleanse. Gastrointestinal symptoms may indicate a serious medical condition that cannot be treated by using an herbal tonic.
Member Comments