Do You Need A Colon Cleanse If You Eat Fiber?

Your colon, which is part of your large intestine, is an important part of your digestive system. It removes water from food you have eaten and forms stool. The colon keeps itself clean while naturally performing its work, according to MayoClinic.com; however, some people use colon cleanses for further cleaning. You can eat fiber to get colon health benefits if you do not wish to go through a cleansing procedure.

Definition

A colon cleanse removes material from your colon via irrigation or ingestion of fiber supplements. Colonic irrigation involves insertion of a tube that is used to pump in water. People who support the procedure believe that it helps the growth of healthy bacteria in your intestines, supports your immune system, gives you more energy and flushes out unhealthy toxins, according to Michael Picco, M.D., of MayoClinic.com.

Warning

Colonic irrigation carries some health risks. You can become dehydrated, get an infection and even suffer a bowel perforation. You are especially at risk if you have heart or kidney disease because a colon cleanse may cause a dangerous increase in your electrolytes, Picco warns. You can avoid some of these problems by visiting a practitioner who uses disposable equipment and by drinking plenty of water to prevent dehydration.

Alternative

A healthy colon keeps itself clean and does not collect toxins. You can support your digestive system by eating enough fiber rather than having a colon cleanse. Fiber is dietary roughage that comes in two forms. Insoluble fiber does not dissolve, so it helps other material move through your intestines and fights constipation. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and creates a gel-like substance. This fiber type helps control blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

Sources

You must eat enough high-fiber foods to keep your colon healthy. Insoluble fiber is the best kind for your digestive system, and it is found in nuts, wheat bran, whole-wheat flour and vegetables. Soluble fiber comes from beans, oats, peas, carrots, citrus fruits and apples. Work some of these items into your diet every day, MayoClinic.com advises.

Benefits

High-fiber foods keep your colon healthy by warding off constipation, eliminating the need to remove waste material with colonic irrigation. Fiber also absorbs water, which helps fight loose stool. Foods containing fiber require more chewing, which gives makes you feel full longer, helping you lose weight. There is some evidence that fiber reduces your risk of getting colorectal cancer, but study results are mixed, according to MayoClinic.com. Fiber may also help prevent diverticular disease and hemorrhoids.