Colon Cleansing Can Save Your Health

An overview of the benefits of colon cleansing, why it's needed and the different options available.
Colon cleansing can be a very beneficial part of your health care program, as a healthy functioning colon is critical for the health of the body, mind and spirit. As a preventative approach it can help prevent certain diseases and conditions from developing, and as a treatment approach for health problems already in existence, it can help manage or alleviate symptoms and encourage healing.

According to some health experts over 70 million Americans suffer from colon-related problems that can be directly linked to poor diet that consists of simple carbohydrates and processed foods, a lack of exercise, environmental toxins like air pollution and pesticides and the overuse of antibiotics.

Common problems and diseases that can be prevented or eliminated with colon cleansing include constipation, diarrhea, polyps, irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, Crohn's disease and cancer.

Other health issues that can be triggered by bowel problems are bad breath, chronic fatigue, nutritional deficiencies, Candida overgrowth, eczema, acne, depression, chemical sensitivities, allergies, weight gain, anxiety, headaches, food allergies, poor eyesight, aching joints and muscles, lower back pain and more. Improper colon care leads to overall ill health.

The Need For Colon Cleansing

The entire human body is impacted by the health or lack of health of the colon. Along with the lungs, skin, kidneys and liver it is responsible for removing toxins from the body and ensuring health.

The colon, which is over five feet long, has small pockets along its wall that can trap wastes and toxins that are contained in fecal matter. When the waste and toxins are not eliminated relatively quickly, it can remain in the colon from weeks to months, triggering a colon that is inflamed, irritated, or spastic.

When the feces sits too long in the colon it begins to decay. As the waste decays, it releases toxins and dangerous gasses into the blood stream which passes then throughout the entire body, poisoning various organs and body tissue.

The resulting effects can have damaging effects on both the mind and body, which emerge as something as simple as acne or serious as depression or autoimmune disease.

Apart from the physical and mental symptoms, there are underlying problems developing the longer the colon remains unclean. This includes non-absorption of essential nutrients and vitamins, toxic buildup in the lymphatic system and potential liver dysfunction.

A good colon cleansing program will clear out the fecal matter and accumulation of toxins, thereby cleansing the whole body and helping it function more effectively.

Colon Cleansing Options

There are many different colon cleansing options, but here are some of the most popular and effective.

1. Enemas and Colonics

Enemas and colonics have the same effect, however many people prefer enemas because they can be performed in the privacy of their own homes. Colonics are generally performed in a qualified health care professional or alternative health facility.

These are a preferred choice for many people who live with chronic illness or an ongoing health condition such as food allergies, especially if they cannot tolerate natural remedies such as herbs, since they provide results very quickly. The enema removes stale fecal material that has accumulated along the colon instantly, thereby eliminating the dangerous toxins and unhealthy bacteria.

2. Herbal Colon Cleansing

Herbal colon cleansing is ideal for people who either don't like or don't need an enema or colonic. There are many effective herbs, but since everyone's body is different, it's best to research herbal options to ensure you won't have an allergic reaction or sensitivity to a particular herb, and to ensure it will not interfere with any medication you might already be taking. Some of the most popular herbs used for cleansing the colon are cascara sagrada, senna, fennel, aloe, chickweed, and slippery elm. These typically work by gently scrubbing the colon wall and eliminating the toxins and fecal matter.

3. Other Colon Cleansing Options

These may include taking specific nutrients and substances such as psyllium, supplementation of Probiotics, engaging in regular exercise and eating a healthy diet that contributes to cleansing the colon.

When done correctly the health advantages of colon cleansing are many, but like anything else there should be balance and cleansing that is overdone or too harsh can have a negative impact on your health.

Whatever choice you make, it's important that you educate yourself thoroughly , understand the proper procedure and if you have any health conditions be sure to discuss it with your holistic health care provider before embarking on any particular cleansing journey.

Learn more about the benefits of cleansing your colon
   By Cynthia Perkins
Published: 2/7/2008
 
Use the feedback form below to submit your comments.
Your Comments:
Your Name:
Use the form below to email this article to your friends.
Recipient Email Address:
 Separate multiple email addresses by ;
Your Name:
Your Email Address: