A colon cleanse is a method of cleaning the intestines by the use of either irrigation or a supplement. The process of colon cleansing dates back to ancient Greeks and Egyptians who believed that cleaning the colon with fiber, laxatives and enemas promoted health.http://www.webmd.com/balance/natural-colon-cleansing-is-it-necessary According to John R. Stroehlein, M.D, the colon helps protect the body by maintaining a healthy bacterial balance.http://www.mdanderson.org/publications/focused-on-health/issues/2010-march/clean-your-colon-colon-health-cleanse.html
Contemporary colon cleansing typically consists primarily of herbs, teas, laxatives, capsules, powders and enzymes taken by mouth. Additionally, colon cleansing can be conducted by administering water into then flushing it out of the intestines with tubes attached to a pump or machine. This method is also referred to as a high colonic.http://www.webmd.com/balance/natural-colon-cleansing-is-it-necessary
Types of Cleanses
An enema is an irrigation procedure which introduces fluid into the colon through the rectum which is then expelled with the movement of the bowels. This is one method for flushing the colon. http://dictionary.webmd.com/terms/enema
A laxative can be taken orally or inserted into the rectum. Oral laxatives encourage bowel movements and may relieve constipation in an assortment of ways.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information/DR602359 Rectal laxatives are also referred to as suppositories and come in a variety of forms, each affecting the bowels and colon differently.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information/DR602369
Herbal teas often work by causing a calming, relaxing and laxative effect on the colon and may have properties which aid other organs.http://www.webmd.com/balance/natural-colon-cleansing-is-it-necessary
Powders and enzymes may consist of natural or processed ingredients and work in different ways. Some assist the colon by aiding digestion. Some ingredients may consist of bentonite, bromelain, flaxseed, fenugreek or black walnut hull.http://www.webmd.com/balance/natural-colon-cleansing-is-it-necessary
Homemade Colon Cleanse
Nutritionist and exercise sociologist Jill Lane is featured in this video discussing the benefits of home made colon cleanses. According to Lane, many over the counter herbal colon cleanses have irritants which upset the colon, which is not ideal. Lane indicates that making and consuming vegetable and fruit juice is a great source of fiber and a way to cleanse the colon.
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact a doctor before using the information presented here.
References
Fast Facts
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Types
Irrigation or supplement
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Products
Enema, laxative, herbs, tea, powder, suppository
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Hydrotherapy
High colonic is a way of flushing the colon
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Herbal
The psylium husk lowers cholesterol, is rich in fiber, and can be used for colon cleansing
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Detox
Colon cleansing is associated with detoxification and weight loss
