Colon Cleanse Benefits And Risks & Also Safety Tips You Know
Why cleanse your colon?
Colon Cleanse Benefits And Risks – Colon irrigation looks ugly, but professionals say it can provide many health benefits, including improved digestion and weight loss.
However, colon cleansing is not without risks. As with most lifestyle practices, it should be approached with caution, with a reasonable understanding of the potential dangers.
What is a colon cleanse?
Colon cleansing, also known as colonic lavage or colonic hydrotherapy, involves flushing the colon with fluids to remove waste products.
This practice has been around since ancient times, and its benefits are based on the assumption that digestive waste can become toxic to the body.
Usually, a professional called a colon hygienist will perform the colon cleansing while you relax on the table. It involves sending about 60 liters of fluid through a tube into the rectum.
The toxin is then removed through another tube and the process is repeated.
Colon Cleanse Benefits
Colon cleanse experts say you can reap many benefits by removing toxins from your digestive system. They say it can lead to weight loss, better digestion, increased energy, and clearer thinking. But most of these claims are unsubstantiated and lack scientific support.
A small pilot study in 2016 showed improvement in gastrointestinal symptoms after colonic lavage in patients with irritable bowel syndrome.
But despite the results of the aforementioned study, colon cleansing should be approached with caution as it can lead to damage to the colon. Below we describe the possible risks of colon cleansing.
Colon Cleanse Risks
The list of potential risks associated with a colon cleanse is longer than the list of benefits.
Dehydration
While part of the weight loss associated with colon cleansing is associated with the removal of waste, this also results in the removal of fluid. In extreme cases, dehydration can cause kidney failure.
Electrolyte Imbalance
Colon cleansing can upset the balance of electrolytes such as potassium and sodium in the body. These chemicals transmit electrical signals through the cells. And an imbalance can lead to loss of consciousness and damage to the kidneys.
Bacterial Imbalance And Infections
Colon cleansing can introduce harmful bacteria into the lower digestive system through the tools and fluids used. They also kill healthy bacteria that can fight these infections.
Bowel Perforation
Intestinal perforation occurs when the wall of the small intestine ruptures. This is considered a medical emergency. Although symptoms begin with fever, pain, chills, and nausea, they can progress and even be fatal.
Tips For Safe Colon Cleansing
Colon Cleanse Benefits And Risks – If you are aware of the risks and are still interested in a colon cleanse, there are things you can do to reduce the chance of adverse health effects.
- Talk to your doctor first: Some people may have a higher risk of complications.
- Drink plenty of fluids: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration before and after cleansing.
- Choose your therapist wisely: Colon hygienists do not require a license, but some belong to professional organizations that require some training in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Talk to other people who have used a particular therapist before proceeding with a consultation.
- Ensure that only new protective gear and disposable equipment is used: Make sure your hygienist does proper disinfection and uses disposable equipment whenever possible. Colon cleansing kits can spread bacteria if not properly sterilized.
Alternative
Colon Cleanse Benefits And Risks – In addition to the traditional colon cleanse with irrigation, there are many products on the market that claim to provide similar benefits when taken orally.
They are available in capsules, powders or teas and include plant fibers and natural laxatives. If you are choosing a supplement, read the package directions carefully and discuss the ingredients with your healthcare provider.