The idea that toxic buildup causes health problems has led to increased popularity of products, diets and procedures that purport to remove these harmful substances and restore health. One such procedure, colonics or colon hydrotherapy, involves flushing out waste from the colon by pumping water through rubber tubing inserted into the rectum. The traditional medical community does not endorse this therapy. Consult your doctor before you try this therapy.
Purported Benefits
Many natural health practitioners believe some diseases originate from toxins stored in the colon. Proponents of colon cleansing claim the therapy can treat a wide range of conditions including asthma, acne, sinus problems, chronic fatigue and constipation. Mark Groven, naturopathic physician and medical supervisor of the Bastyr University Health Clinic, says colonics help tone the colon and improve the digestive and elimination processes.
Evidence
According to both the Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins University, little evidence exists that definitively confirms or refutes the merits of the colonic procedure. Whether this therapy is beneficial or is just another ineffective, unfounded alternative treatment remains to be seen.
Necessity
Traditional medical practitioners generally do not believe alternative therapies like colonics promote detoxification, because various organs and bodily processes already perform these functions, explains Dr. Michael Picco of the Mayo Clinic. Your intestines and digestive system have mechanisms in place to naturally eliminate waste, bacteria and other harmful substances.
Considerations
Colon hydrotherapy is not an officially recognized medical procedure, so no official rules have been developed regarding who can practice this procedure and what type of training they require. According to an article published on CNN.com, the International Association for Colon Hydrotherapy and certain equipment manufacturers offer voluntary certification programs.
Dangers
Colonics carry a number of potentially serious risks. Practitioners often add certain substances to the water. Laxatives used in colonics can cause electrolyte imbalances, particularly dangerous if you have heart or kidney problems. Ask the practitioner about the contents of the solution to ensure it does not contain anything that could trigger an allergic reaction or prompt other health issues.
The rubber tubing or excess water pressure can tear a hole in the bowel wall, leading to serious infection. Improperly sterilized equipment can also trigger an infection.
If you have intestinal conditions such as diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, this procedure might increase your risk of complications.
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