Colon Cleanse Side Effects

Colon cleansing is an age-old practice, which has been employed to remove the waste particles and toxins accumulated on the walls of the colon. It is believed that such toxins can enter the bloodstream, causing fatigue, migraine, etc. These accumulated waste particles can also become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and intestinal parasites. Colon cleansing aims at removing these toxins and waste and ensure a healthy body. It is claimed by the proponents of this practice that colon cleansing can lead to a healthy skin, hair, and an energy-filled body. Even though the alternative medicine community encourages occasional colon cleansing as a method to detoxify the body, the conventional or modern medical practitioners oppose this practice. However, the popularity of this practice is increasing day by day.

Colon Cleanse Side Effects and Benefits

Even though colon cleansing is touted as beneficial for the body, it may cause some side effects too. The most common among the side effects of colon cleansing are headaches, nausea, flu-like symptoms, fever, anxiety, depression, etc. Apart from these, some people may experience loss of appetite, intestinal cramps, urine discoloration, chronic diarrhea, allergic reactions, anxiety, panic attacks, irritability, weepiness, etc. These symptoms may last for three to four days and then subside after this period. But these symptoms can last for a few more days, in persons with underlying colon problems, like irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis, etc. In case of colon hydrotherapy, if not done properly, it can cause electrolyte imbalance, perforation of intestinal wall and in rare cases, heart failure too.

According to the exponents of colon cleansing, one of the important benefits of colon cleanse is the removal of toxins from the body cells. This revitalizes the body and also results in a healthy skin, good hair, fewer headaches, weight loss and flat tummies. All these benefits jointly create a feeling of vitality and good health in the person. Even though there is no scientific evidence to prove the same, many people have similar experiences, which contributed to the popularity of the practice. However, there are mixed reviews regarding the efficacy.

Reasons Attributed to Colon Cleanse Side Effects

It is commonly believed that most of the alternative medicine systems escalate the symptoms initially, before curing the condition. This is applicable for the colon cleansing process too. Another reason attributed to colon cleanse side effects is the reaction of the body to the colon cleansing agents. These agents have to forcefully separate the toxins and waste accumulated in the body over the years. The severity of the side effects is dependent on the time taken for colon cleansing. The shorter the period, the symptoms will be more intense. According to the exponents of colon cleansing, these side effects are not caused by the process of colon cleansing, but are actually withdrawal symptoms developed by the body, as it eliminates the toxins. This can be compared to the withdrawal symptoms when quitting smoking or alcohol. In short, it is claimed that you have to suffer some symptoms, in order to achieve a toxin-free body and vitality. It has also been observed that the side effects are caused by some herbs, which are used as colon cleansing agents. Such herbs can cause complications in people with allergies.

It is always better to undergo colon hydrotherapy and colonic irrigation under the supervision of a qualified practitioner to avoid any colon cleanse side effects. Avoid enema at home for colon cleansing. Make a detailed study regarding the product you are intending to use for colon cleansing. If you are allergic, it is better to avoid herbal products. You can also check for some homemade colon cleanse or natural colon cleansing recipes. Avoid junk food and aerated drinks during the colon cleansing program and drink more water to aid the removal of toxins. You can also have some probiotics to inhabit your colon with beneficial bacteria. Above all, consult your personal doctor before adopting a colon cleansing program.