Colon Cleansing: Benefits and Contraindications

Colon cleansing is commonly used in preparation for medical procedures, such as a colonoscopy. However, some alternative medicine health practitioners offer colon cleansing for other purposes, such as detoxification.

But colon cleansing, also called colonic irrigation, is not necessary for these purposes. This is because the digestive system and intestines already remove waste material and bacteria from the body.

During a colon cleanse, large amounts of water (sometimes up to 16 gallons [unos 60 litros]) and possibly other substances, such as spices or coffee, are expelled through the colon. This is done through a tube that is placed in the rectum. In some cases, smaller amounts of water are used that are allowed to sit in the colon for a short time before being removed.

Benefits of colon cleansing

Improves absorption of nutrients. A colon overloaded with waste substances and toxins is not going to be able to absorb nutrients properly.

Increase energy. If the intestine is loaded with toxins or any type of waste substance, symptoms of tiredness or low energy may appear. Some people may even feel depressed.

Improves liver function. The microorganisms that inhabit the intestine act as a protective barrier, letting through only beneficial substances for the organism. When this intestinal barrier that protects us is damaged, it directly affects the liver, since they are organs that communicate.

Stimulates the immune system: The intestinal flora plays a very important role in the body’s immune response. A healthy and toxin-free digestive system helps to prevent and have a greater resistance against diseases.

Help in weight loss: Foods with little fiber stay in the intestine longer. With colon cleansing, possible accumulations of these foods are completely eliminated, which can lead to a slight weight loss.

Improves bad breath: A high population of harmful bacteria in the intestine can be the cause of bad breath. Detoxifying the intestine will prevent its proliferation.

Relieves bloating and gas: Sometimes, it is possible that the digestion process suffers alterations and the bacteria of the intestine do not process food well, giving rise to fermentation, constipation, parasites that cause these uncomfortable symptoms. Eliminating toxins from the colon greatly promotes good digestion.

Improves mood: a balanced microbiota is essential to prevent and even treat emotional disorders. Therefore, ridding our intestinal flora of toxins is of great help.

Homemade colon cleansing products

Cleansing with aloe vera

To cleanse with aloe vera, it is necessary to cut an aloe vera leaf in half and extract its juice. Then you have to squeeze two lemons and add their juice to half a liter of filtered water. Finally, consume this liquid three times a day for two or three days.

Ginger

This root has anti-inflammatory properties and promotes good digestion. You can eat it raw if you dare with its citrus and spicy flavor. Or you can prepare it as an infusion: boil a good piece of ginger in a saucepan with water to obtain its juice, then heat approximately two cups of water, add a quarter cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice and a tablespoon of lemon juice. ginger you have obtained. Mix this preparation well and drink it in two or three doses during the day.

Avocado

Eating avocados daily is one of the best ways to optimize digestion. Contains soluble and insoluble fibers that promote bowel movements and help with natural colon cleansing. They also help reduce the chances of developing colon cancer in the future.

Apple juice

Drink the juice throughout the day and half an hour after drinking it, drink another plain water. This serves as a laxative, so solid foods should be avoided. Do it for a period of three days.

Green juice of aloe, cucumber and apple

This juice is really very delicious and has the ability to detoxify the colon. Its ingredients are all purifying and its effect will be guaranteed. Your intestine will be healthier and at first glance your figure will be more deflated.

Ingredients and preparation

  • a slice of pineapple
  • Half cucumber with skin
  • A small apple (better green)
  • Half aloe vera leaf

You just have to chop the ingredients and mix everything in the blender together with the orange juice. You can add a glass of water so that it is not so thick. Drink on an empty stomach and in the afternoon for seven days in a row.

Carrot juice

Natural carrot juice contains fiber and antioxidants that help improve bowel movement to promote the removal of waste from the colon.

Ingredients

  • Three carrots.
  • Half a glass of water (125 ml).

Preparation

Wash, peel and chop the carrots, and mix in a blender with half a glass of water.

Make sure you get a lump-free drink, and when it’s ready, consume it right away.

Serve and drink. You can add a few ice cubes.

Side effects

Colon cleansing can also cause less serious side effects, such as cramping, bloating, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.

Other possible problems with colon cleansing include the following:

dehydration

Tear of the rectum (perforation)

Infection

A change in electrolyte balance, which can be dangerous if you have kidney or heart disease, or other health problems

If you choose to try colon cleansing, take the following precautions:

See your regular health care provider first, especially if you take medications or have health problems, such as kidney or heart disease.

Make sure the health professional performing the colon cleanse is reputable and uses disposable equipment that has not been used previously.

Get a list of the specific herbal ingredients and amounts of any colon cleansing products you use; some ingredients can cause health problems.