Colon Therapy
Colon Cleansing Effectiveness
According to experts from the Mayo Clinic, not all health professionals recommend colon cleansing since they maintain that the body’s bowel system and digestive system eliminate waste and bacteria naturally. On the other hand, proponents believe that colonic irrigation improves health by promoting healthy intestinal bacteria, removing toxins, enhancing the immune system, and boosting energy. They also claim that gastrointestinal tract toxins can cause a variety of health problems which can be prevented by clearing the colon of toxic waste encrusted on the colon walls.
Benefits of Colon Therapy
Conditions which may be helped by cleansing the colon include:
- Constipation
- Hemorrhoids
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Diverticulitus
- Krohn’s Disease
- Colon/Rectal Cancer
- Arthritis
- Gall Stones/Kidney Stones
- Hypertension
- Psoriasis
- Obesity
Some of the goals of colon therapy include:
- Boosting the immune system
- Increasing vitality
- Weight loss
- Enhanced mental outlook
- Decreased incontinence
- Reduced risk of colon cancer
How Colonic Irrigation Works
There are two types of colon-cleansing methods:
1) Over-the-counter powdered or liquid supplements to help the colon expel its contents
Ingested by mouth or taken through the rectum, these products include:
- Herbal Teas
- Laxatives
- Enemas
- Enzymes
- Magnesium
2) Colon Irrigation
Administered by colonic hygienists or colon hydrotherapists, plastic tubes are inserted through the rectum into the colon. A machine or low-pressure pump sends several gallons of water into the large intestine, while waste and fluids are carried out via another tube. To help remove waste material, the therapist might also massage the abdomen. The entire procedure may be repeated several times. As part of the treatment program, herbs, enzymes, probiotics, coffee, and varying water pressures/temperatures may also be used.
International Association of Colon Therapists
For safety, make sure your colon-cleansing practitioner has received adequate training, such as certification from the International Association of Colon Therapists (IPCH). IPCH registered therapists receive in-depth training in internal cleansing and detoxification and are specifically trained in colonic hydrotherapy.
Enhancing Your Colon Health
There are several dietary steps you can take to improve your colon and overall health and to prevent conditions such as constipation, diverticulitus, and colon cancer. You can:
- Drink plenty of fluids (not including alcohol)
- Ingest 20-35 grams of fiber daily
- Add insoluble fiber found in cereal and whole grains
- Add soluble fiber found in fruit, vegetables, bran, and oatmeal
- Limit red meat
- Decrease consumption of processed foods, preservatives, and artificial sweeteners
- Avoid tobacco
- Decrease stress
- Get screened for colon cancer by the age of 50 or earlier
More Colon Cleansing Benefits
Everyone can benefit from a cleansing of their bowels and from improving their diet and lifestyle. Additional benefits of colon therapy include:
- Improved digestion
- Better bowel regularity
- Enhanced ability of the body’s immune system to fight disease
- Clearer, brighter skin and complexion
- Enhanced mood
- Increased overall sense of well being