What To Look For
Colon cleansers generally come in 7-, 10-, 14- or 30-day packages. If you are new to colon cleansing, it is a good idea to start off with a 7-day course. The most effective colon cleansers contain psyllium husk, cascara sagrada bark, Chinese rhubarb root, dandelion root, bentonite clay, apple pectin and fenugreek seed. Some require you to fast, while others suggest a healthy eating regime, which usually includes fresh fruit and vegetables, juices, whole grain foods such as rice, and plenty of clean drinking water.
Common Pitfalls
While cascara sagrada is excellent for most people wanting a thorough colon cleanse, it is not suitable for anyone with ulcerative colitis, gallstones, Crohn's disease, diverticular disease, hemorrhoids, congestive heart failure or heart disease, gastrointestinal cancer, abdominal hernia, liver or kidney disease. Anyone who has diabetes or issues with low blood sugar levels should avoid fasting.
Where To Buy
Good colon cleansing products can be bought online or at most local health food stores. Walgreens, the Vitamin Shoppe and GNC offer the best value. Affordable and reliable online stores include iHerb, Total Health Discount Vitamins and Herbal Remedies. There are also specialist colon cleansing websites such as Blessed Herbs and Dr Natura, which are more expensive but do offer excellent quality products such as Colonix and the Blessed Herbs Colon Cleansing Kit.
Cost
Prices range from $10.00 up to $120.00 or more, for a three-month supply. The cheaper versions may just be a mix of psyllium husk, senna and other laxatives, which may have you running to the bathroom, but not give a really complete colon cleanse. Look at the ingredients list and do some research on the ingredients if you are in doubt.
Comparison Shopping
Colon cleansers generally come in two forms: tablets or powder. The tablet form is easy to take but may not be quite as effective as the powder versions. The drawback with most of the powder versions is that they form a sticky gel very soon after water is added, mainly due to the psyllium husk bulking up; this is necessary to remove waste from the colon. This means you need to drink them as soon as you have added water or juice. If you decide to take the tablets it is important to drink at least 8 ounces of water at the same time.
Insider Tips
Some people experience mild, or occasionally severe detox symptoms, such as headaches or irritability, while on a colon cleanse. It is important to get enough rest and avoid strenuous exercise, particularly if you have chosen the fasting or juicing option. Mild stomach cramps are normal. However, if symptoms are severe or persist, contact a professional natural healthcare professional.
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