Colon Cleansing During Menstruation

Colon cleansing has become a popular way to lose weight and purportedly regain health, according to experts in alternative health care. Through the use of supplements or other means, impurities are supposedly removed from the colon, allowing for improved digestion and increased energy. Menstruation is in and of itself a cleansing process, as matter is also removed from the body. Cleansing the colon during menstruation may not be the best idea, as it takes a lot of energy for the body to go through either process.

Identification

Colon cleansing is a process of using vitamins, herbs or hydrotherapy in order to purportedly remove built-up feces and toxins from the colon. Though not scientifically proven, colon cleansing is recommended by many alternative practitioners as a way to improve health. In fact, according to Cherie and John Calbom in their book, "Juicing, Fasting, and Detoxing for Life," colon cleansing can help a person overcome poor digestion, constipation, acid reflux, stomach pain, irritable bowel syndrome and candida overgrowth, among other symptoms.

Significance

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As compared to colon cleansing, menstruation was traditionally believed to be the body's natural form of cleansing going back to the time of Hippocrates, according to David P. Barash in the book, "How Women Got Their Curves and Other Just-So Stories." Though many societies believe menstruation is a signal of uncleanliness or weakness in women, some believe the purpose is to remove impurities in the body, and according to MacArthur Foundation "genius" award winner Margie Profet, is the female reproductive system's way of defending against pathogens transported by sperm 1.

Function

Colon cleansing during menstruation may defeat the natural purpose of menstruation and may even be uncomfortable. According to Andreas Moritz in his book, "The Amazing Liver & Gallbladder Flush," though it is not harmful or ineffective to cleanse during menstruation, it may be more comfortable and convenient for women to cleanse either before or after their monthly cycle 2. Colon cleansing can sometimes cause stomach pains that worsen menstrual cramps or increase bleeding.

Time Frame

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Menstruation lasts for most women from five to seven days. Colon cleansing can range from two weeks up to nine months, depending on how long you have consumed sugar, alcohol and junk foods, according to Karen Kingston in the book, "Clear Your Clutter With Feng Shui." Colon cleansing, whether herbal or hydrotherapy, can be stopped during menstruation, even when cleansing for long periods of time.

Considerations

Colon cleansing from herbs or water has not been scientifically proven to improve any health conditions. Some experts believe that colon, or any other form of cleansing, can be harmful to the body, including the possibility of dehydration. If you suffer from menstrual problems or any other illness, see a qualified practitioner before beginning a colon cleanse.