Colon cleansing also called colon therapy, colonic irrigation, or colonic hydrotherapy is a process of flushing the colon with fluids to remove waste and toxic products from the body. A practice that has been around since ancient times, it goes by the belief that any kind of digestive waste can be a potential toxin for the body. Done in myriad ways and primarily as a pre-process of colonoscopy, it is done for detoxification too. A popular form of alternative healing, colon cleansing should not be confused with enemas which are used to treat chronic constipation. The process involves inserting a tiny device with a nozzle into the rectum to send large amounts of water and other detoxifying herbal substances to be flushed through the colon by a colonic hygienist. It can be done by powdered or liquid supplements by taking them orally as well.
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Why Is Colonic Irrigation Done?
While we all know that our digestive system can eliminate waste material and bacteria from our bodies, some people get their colons cleansed. The foundational notion that drives this practice is autointoxication. It is believed that prolonged exposure to the substances in fecal matter can compromise the human body’s digestive and immune health. Therefore, by clearing these substances, colon cleansing flushes out toxins from the gastrointestinal tract that can otherwise cause diseases such as arthritis and high blood pressure, a weak immune system, and even colon cancer. The treatment improves health by removing toxins that promote digestive health, normalizes bowel function, cures inflammatory bowel diseases, and promotes weight loss.
What Happens During The Procedure?
In this simple procedure, a tube is inserted into the rectum which uses temperature and pressure-controlled filtered water which is sometimes mixed with additives such as vitamins, probiotics, enzymes, or herbs. This water is pumped into the colon. During the process, the colonic hygienist may massage your abdomen during a waiting period to move the fluid around. After the process, the fecal matter is flushed out of your body. The entire session generally takes around forty to fifty minutes.
Also Read: Colon Polyps: Symptoms, Causes And Treatment
Risks Of Colon Cleanse
Potential concerns with colon cleansing include:
- Dehydration
- Perforation in the rectum
- Infection
- A change in your electrolyte balance can be dangerous if you have kidney or heart disease or other health problems
Precautions
There is no harm in getting the process done as it is not a dangerous one, but it is essential to see a gastroenterologist to look for an underlying health condition that may need evaluation. This becomes very important especially if the person has been taking any medications for an underlying health problem. Also, using disposable equipment that hasn't been previously used is extremely necessary while colon cleansing. A colon cleanse is not the same as a colonoscopy screening thus they should not be considered the same. Cleansing the colon can also remove good bacteria that thrive in the colon, thus stripping the colon might allow harmful bacteria to proliferate in the colon area and cause infections.
Who Should Not Go For It?
People with the following health conditions should not undergo colonic hydrotherapy:
- People who have had colon surgery
- People with kidney or heart disease
- People who have gastrointestinal conditions like Crohn's disease, colitis, or diverticulitis
Conclusion
Colon cleansing, also called colon therapy or colonic hydrotherapy, is a process of cleansing the colon with fluids to remove toxic waste from the body. Through a simple procedure, fecal matter and water are flushed back out of your body, which helps eliminate parasites, microbes, and toxins. A relatively safe process, colon cleansing carries certain risks. If you are considering it, consult your healthcare provider measuring all the pros and cons. For maintaining overall gut health, adopt a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Taking probiotics is also an effective way to help improve digestive health. Knowing all your options is important as there can be adverse events such as electrolyte imbalances and perforations of the colon during the insertion of the colonic tube during colon hydrotherapy.
