Does Drinking Water Cleanse Colon?

Colonic irrigation is a type of colon cleansing performed by inserted a tube into the anus and pumping water into the lower intestinal area. Your colon, which is part of your digestive, cleanses itself without the need for external procedures. Certain dietary activities, including drinking enough water and eating high fiber foods, helps the natural process.

Definition

Your colon is part of your digestive system and makes up the majority of your large intestine, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. A properly functioning colon removes liquid from digested food, forming the material into stool that can be eliminated through the rectum and anus. The colon stays naturally clean as waste products continually pass through it and out of the body.

Hydration

Hydration is important to digestive system function, and your entire body's function. Sixty percent of your body weight is water. Lack of fluid can lead to problems such as constipation. Your entire system, including your colon, functions more effectively and stays clean when you drink sufficient water and other hydrating fluids. Drink about eight 8 oz. glasses of water per day to keep your body, including your colon, in good condition.

Fiber

Fiber is another substance that keeps your digestive system clean and functioning properly. Soluble fiber needs water to do its job because it becomes gel-like when exposed to water. This fiber, which comes in dietary sources such as barley, beans, peas, oats, oranges, apples, grapefruit and carrots, works in tandem with water to lower your bad cholesterol levels and regulate your blood sugar. Eat soluble fiber every day, and drink plenty of water with your meals.

Exercise

Exercise is helpful to digestive health and constipation prevention. Get at least 30 minutes of exercise every day to support a good digestive system and overall health, Medline Plus recommends. Exercise removes bacteria from the lungs, reduces stress hormones and increases blood circulation, while keeping your bowels moving. You lose water through sweat while exercising, so drink enough liquid to replenish what you lose, which keeps you healthy during physical exertion.

Warning

Drink plenty of water if you opt for colonic irrigation to cleanse your colon because the procedure can cause dehydration, the Mayo Clinic warns. Colon cleansing can also boost your electrolytes and carries a risk of bowel perforation. You can pick up an infection if you do not choose a health provider who uses disposable equipment for each client to prevent cross-contamination. Natural colon cleansing with a high fiber diet and proper hydration is safer than medical techniques.