Colon cleansing is an alternative medical process that removes toxins from the colon and intestinal tract, and is also known as colon therapy, colon hydrotherapy and colonic irrigation. Almost always combined with special diet or fasting, this therapy has become more and more popular in the last decade, despite having its roots in ancient times (even the Egyptians had a word for enema!).
What can I expect during a colon cleanse?
There are various ways to perform a colon cleanse, some more “aggressive” than others. Generally, when you are receiving colonic hydrotherapy you may cleanse your colon and intestines with as little as 2 liters (half a gallon) or up to 60 liters (16 gallons) of water prepared with herbs, coffee, and other natural ingredients. This water is flushed through the colon either forcible with a machine or by gravity.
To perform the colon cleanse, a tube is inserted gently into the rectum and the water is either forced by a machine or enters slowly according to gravity. Colonic irrigation carried out by a machine generally flushes the most amounts of liquid, pumping a continuous flow of water, usually 1 liter at a time, allowing to drain then pumping again. Sometimes, a small dose of water is left inside the colon, allowing the herbs and ingredients to take effect before allowing the liquid to drain.
Why do we need to perform colonic hydrotherapy?
Colonic hydrotherapy is helpful in removing the toxins in our bodies, cleansing the colon so that it can better absorb the vitamins and nutrients from our food. The modern lifestyles that many of us live today, packed with fast foods and products full of preservatives, can cause toxins and waste to accumulate in the body throughout the years. The kinds of foods that contribute to the accumulation of toxins include red meat, processed foods, dairy, preservatives, sweeteners, chemicals, alcohol, caffeine, soda, and stress.
What are the benefits of colonic hydrotherapy?
Besides individuals who have colonic cleansing when they are preparing to have a colonoscopy, there are many alternative doctors who perform colonic hydrotherapy and colon cleansing for other medical reasons and detoxifications. Toxins in the gastrointestinal tract can cause many illnesses, including asthma, arthritis, allergies, and other ailments. Removing these harmful toxins is said to enhance and improve your immune system along with giving you energy as your body gets more from its food.
Is colonic irrigation safe?
It must be noted that not all doctors are in agreement with the benefits of colonic hydrotherapy, with many physicians believing that colon cleansing can be harmful. Some of the most common side effects of colon cleansing include nausea, cramping, bloating, temporary vomiting, dehydration, infection, electrolyte changes and, in severe cases, bowel perforations.
Advice to Remember when considering Colonic Hydrotherapy
- Consult your personal physician prior to any colon cleansing, especially if you are currently on any medications or you have heart disease, kidney problems, or any serious health issues.
- Always make sure that all equipment is new, and has never been used before.
- Ask the colon cleansing provider to give you a list of the herbs that they will be using, because you may have an allergic effect with the herbs.
- Make sure that you keep your body fully hydrated while you are having your colon cleansing treatment. This will prevent any dehydration from occurring after the colonic hydrotherapy procedure is performed.
