Colon cleansing is a dubious multimillion-dollar industry promoting colonics, enemas, herbal teas, pills and mixtures meant to clean the colon, also known as the large intestine or bowel. Promoters claim colon cleansing assists in weight loss, detoxifies the body, eliminates parasites, and removes crusted waste and toxins from the bowel. None of these claims is proven, and many experts agree that colon cleansing is unnecessary and potentially dangerous.
Colon Cleansing Is Unnecessary
The bowel, which measures 3 to 4 feet in length, is designed to care for itself. It is a long muscular tube that absorbs needed fluid and electrolytes and removes toxins and wastes from the body. The frequency of normal bowel movements can vary from three times each day to once every three days. High-fiber foods, such as whole grains, prunes and apples, and bulking agents, can promote regularity when needed. The only time the colon actually needs cleansing is prior to a procedure such as a colonoscopy or intestinal surgery. Putrefying food and waste do not build up in the colon and form a "crust," as some claim, because the cells of the bowel are renewed every three days.
Potential for Serious Harm
Colon cleansing has been linked to dangerous fluid and electrolyte imbalances, perforation of the rectum, colitis, infection in the bloodstream and death. According to an article published in 2010 in the journal "American Family Physician," an outbreak of amebiasis, a dangerous parasitic infection of the intestines, was transmitted via contaminated colonic equipment at one clinic. At least 36 people were infected; 10 had to have their colons partially or completely removed, and six died. Colon cleansers do not have to meet quality and purity standards, and people have been harmed by cleansers contaminated with harmful ingredients, notes NYU Langone Medical Center.
Lack of Evidence
A review of evidence related to benefits or the risk of harm from colon cleansing was reported in the November 2009 issue of "American Journal of Gastroenterology." The authors reviewed studies, case reports, clinical trials and other relevant documents published between 1966 and 2008, and concluded that due to a lack of evidence proving health claims and the existence of significant evidence of harm, colonic cleansing should not be recommended.
Disrupts Normal Balance of the Colon
The colon is home to beneficial living organisms that protect us from organisms that cause disease. Colon cleansing may disrupt this balance. Enemas and colonic irrigation can actually introduce viruses, disease-causing bacteria and parasites into the colon. Clostridium difficile is a bacteria that can grow in the bowel during antibiotic treatment when beneficial bacteria is killed. Yogurt, acidophilus and probiotic combinations can restore normal bacteria.
References
- MD Anderson Cancer Center; Clean Your Colon Health or Hype?; Jane Schier; March 2010
- NYU Langone Medical Center; Colon Cleansing: Don't Be Misled By the Claims; Larry Lindner, M.A.; December 2010
- "U.S. News & World Report"; Health: When, if Ever, Is Colon Cleansing a Good Idea?; Bryan Arling, M.D.; January 2010
- "American Family Physician"; Colon Cleansing and Body Detoxification: Any Evidence of Benefit or Harm?; Anne D. Walling, M.D.; February 1, 2010
Member Comments