Your digestive system is a major body system that starts with your mouth and runs through your esophagus to the stomach, then the small and large intestines. The last part of the large intestine, called the colon, absorbs the final nutrients out of food and prepares stool to be expelled by the rectum and anus. A high-fiber diet helps the system function properly, but some people do colon cleanses rather than depend on diet.
Colon Function
The colon, located at the end of the large intestine, is one of the last parts of the digestive system. The colon removes any remaining minerals and water from digested food and passes the remaining material along to the rectum, according to KidsHealth. This waste product turns solid and becomes stool that is ready to be expelled through the anus via the normal elimination process.
Colon Cleanse Definition
Some practitioners believe the color collects waste material that eventually becomes toxic and builds up harmful bacteria. A colon cleanse is a procedure that flushes out the colon to remove the toxins and bad bacteria, cleaning the intestine and allowing healthy bacteria to flourish. The technician inserts a rubber tube into the rectum and pumps water slowly in and out of the colon to remove waste material. Substances like herbs, enzymes and coffee are sometimes added to enhance the effect. Cleanses are also done with dietary supplements that have a laxative effect.
Fiber
Fiber helps your digestive system, including your colon, and is found naturally in many foods. You can also purchase fiber in dietary supplements. Insoluble fiber does not break down during digestion, so it helps move other material through your intestines and builds up your stool bulk, according to the Mayo Clinic. Soluble fiber dissolves into a gel and helps control your cholesterol and glucose levels. Wheat bran, nuts and vegetables are all insoluble fiber sources, while soluble fiber is found in peas, beans, oats, carrots, apples, citrus fruits and barley. Eating high-fiber foods regularly keeps your colon healthy naturally.
Considerations
Colon cleansing is unnecessary because the digestive system cleans itself, and colonic irrigation can have dangerous side effects, according to Dr. Michael Picco of the Mayo Clinic. You can get an infection if the clinic does not use disposable equipment, and the cleansing process can perforate your bowels. Irrigation may dehydrate you and can cause serious complications by reducing your electrolytes if you have kidney disease or heart problems. Cleansing with supplements can cause issues if the herbs interact with your current medications.
References
- KidsHealth; Your Digestive System; June 2010
- Quackwatch; Gastrointestinal Quackery: Colonics, Laxatives, and More; Stephen Barrett, M.D.
- MayoClinic.com; Is colon cleansing a good way to eliminate toxins from your body?; Michael Picco, M.D.; March 2011
- MayoClinic.com; Dietary fiber: Essential for a healthy diet; November 2009
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