Information on Colon Cleanses

Colon cleanses are new methods for weight loss. People struggling to lose weight have turned to another fad diet that promises quick weight loss with no exercise or dieting. The colon cleanse methods are used to clear out the colon, and the result is purported pounds shed from the toxins and excess food located in the large intestine.

Method

A popular colon cleanse is called a colonic. The colonic uses a treatment called colonic hydrotherapy or colonic irrigation. Along with the colonic, the patient is provided supplements that assist in the cleanse. Warm water is flushed through the rectum, and the supplements are supposed to remove the excess waste aligning the colon. The waste is excreted after several bowel movements. Some colon cleanses instruct patients to drink large amounts of fluids to flush the system. The Master Cleanse colonic instructs patients to eat a mixture of lemon juice, organic maple syrup, cayenne pepper and water to cleanse the colon.

Claims

The claims from colon cleanse companies is that patients experience a lighter feeling and ultimately fewer pounds on the scale. The colon cleanse companies claim that large amounts of food, waste and toxins align the large intestine, causing excess weight. By flushing fluids, sometimes spicy fluids, down the colon, the dieter can feel lighter and more healthy within several hours.

Risks

There are risks associated with the colon cleanse. First, the large intestine hosts several beneficial bacteria cells. These cells are called the natural flora, and they protect the inside of the body from invasion of environmental pathogens. Using a colon cleanse flushes these helpful bacteria. Flushing the colon also removes healthy electrolytes like potassium. Potassium plays a role in calcium levels. Insertion of tubes can also lead to bacterial infection.

Diet

The body has its own ability to clear toxins from the body, including the large intestines. The best way to keep the gastrointestinal track healthy is by eating fiber. Fiber products are also high in good carbohydrates, so the body obtains the minerals and vitamins needed. Drink plenty of water to flush toxins naturally and keep the body hydrated. Columbia University experts advise patients to stay away from fatty foods and those high in saturated fats.

Results

There is no clinical evidence that supports the claims made by colon cleansing companies. Dieters are advised to choose other methods to lose weight and keep the body healthy. The colon cleanse products such as the tubes inserted into the rectum are not regulated or monitored, so they can cause serious harm through infection or harming the tissue. Always see a doctor before performing any kind of unnatural activity on the body for weight loss.

References

Last updated on: Nov 29, 2009

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