The colon is the location in the digestive system where water and mineral salts are absorbed into the body. The remaining material is then evacuated from the system through the anus as feces. When the colon becomes backed up with fecal matter, undigested food and mucoid plaque, it is said to be "impacted." This can lead to poor absorption of nutrients and cause fatigue and weight gain.
Step 1
Eliminate all foods that are hard to digest and can cause toxicity. Foods that are high in sugar, highly processed, refined and produced with chemicals should all be avoided. White flour breads and bagels, cakes, cookies, candy, processed meats, deep fried foods, fast food and dairy products are examples of these.
Step 2
Crank up your fiber intake. A diet that is low in fiber is one of the main causes of an impacted colon. Have your diet consist heavily of high-fiber foods that are organic, such as beans, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds. Aim for 20 to 35 g of fiber every day, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you are going to eat meat and fish, make sure it is organic and eat it in small amounts.
Step 3
Increase your activity level. Exercise brings many benefits to the body, such as improved muscle strength, better coordination, stronger bones and better brain function. It can also help stimulate the activity of your intestines. Do 30 minutes of walking on a daily basis.
Step 4
Drink more water. Water can help keep you hydrated, flush toxins out of your body, bind to fiber and help push stool out of your system. Drink 8 to 10 cups of water a day and eliminate sugary beverages, carbonated beverages and alcohol.
Step 5
Use colon-cleansing herbs. Herbs for the colon can offer you a laxative effect, help kill parasites and improve the overall function of your digestive system. Flax seeds, alfalfa leaf, senna, fennel seed, uva ursi, black walnut and psyllium husks are examples of these. Use herbs as directed; the FDA does not regulate dietary supplements.
Tips and Warnings
- Organic means that the food is raised and produced with no chemicals, pesticides or hormones.
Member Comments