Colonic Irrigation: 4 Natural Ways To Do A Colon Cleanse At Home
Digestive health does a lot more for our health and mood than we realize. One method to achieve this is through a colon cleanse. Natural colon cleansing, or colonic irrigation, dates back as far as ancient Greece and is the act of flushing out your large intestine.
One of the main theories behind colon cleansing is the ancient belief called the theory of autointoxication. According to the belief, undigested meat and other foods cause mucus buildup in the colon. The buildup leads to toxins, which enter the blood's circulation, poisoning the body.
While the scientific research on colon cleansing is extremely limited, many people claim to benefit from it and it can easily be done at home using water, a practiced diet, and with the help of some over-the-counter products.
Here are some of the natural ways of colon cleansing at home that can be quite safe if done correctly:
Hydration
Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated is a simple way to regulate digestion. In fact, drinking lukewarm water, in particular, has been shown to be good for digestion as well.
Plenty of foods high in water content, including fruits and vegetables like watermelons, tomatoes, lettuce, and celery, can help cleanse the colon naturally through diet.
Saltwater flush
Some prefer to do a saltwater flush and claim that it works for them, especially for people experiencing constipation and irregularity. However, remember that there's little to no scientific evidence that a saltwater flush for colon cleansing works.
If you wish to try a saltwater cleanse for yourself, it's important to speak with your doctor first. Some tips on the method include mixing 2 teaspoons of salt with lukewarm water before eating in the morning. Drinking water quickly on an empty stomach, usually creates the urge to go to the bathroom.
High-fiber Diet
Fiber itself is an essential macronutrient to have in a healthy colon diet. It's commonly contained in whole, healthy plant foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and seeds, and can be made into smoothies. Plants contain cellulose and fibers that help "bulk" up the excess matter in the colon. They also regulate constipation and overactive bowels, while boosting helpful bacteria as a prebiotic.
Herbal teas
Herbal teas are said to potentially assist digestive health through the colon. There are laxative herbs like psyllium, aloe vera, marshmallow root, and slippery elm which may help with constipation. Make sure to seek advice from your doctor and follow directions closely before using these herbs. They can be harmful when used too much.
Other herbs like ginger, garlic, and cayenne pepper contain antimicrobial phytochemicals. These are thought to suppress bad bacteria. For this reason, they're included in lots of cleanses, though studies are needed.
Side Effects
Side effects of an intense colon cleanse can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and dehydration. electrolyte imbalances, cramping. Cease your cleanse immediately if these symptoms occur and talk with your doctor as the symptoms have the risk of leading to heart failure and digestive damage if the cleanse is continued.
Additionally, always consult your doctor before making major changes to your diet for colon health such as if you're significantly eating more fiber, resistant starches, juices, and smoothies.
Bottomline
A natural colon cleanse may help improve digestive health but its effectiveness and safety require more research. Always speak with your doctor beforehand to avoid any health risks and damage. Alternatively, KPTown offers a bottle of Feeling Good and Shaklee Herb-Lax which are effective constipation supplements made from pure herbs. They are both available now at discounted prices.