A Colon Cleanse - What Is It?

There are different types of colon cleanses. Various forms of the same use oxygen, therapeutic clay, fiber, diet, and herbs. The first type mentioned, oxygen, helps dissolve matter that is stuck in the colon. It helps loosen it and eliminate it. Another type of cleanse uses bentonite clay, a type of therapeutic clay, which absorbs toxins, but also may absorb certain medications. A third type of cleanse uses fiber products which can be mixed with juice and swallowed. Fiber increases bulk and becomes an internal broom, sweeping the intestines. Also, fiber can help feed beneficial bacteria in the colon. Sometimes full or partial juice fasts are used. The reasoning is that the energy normally used in digestion now goes to helping cleanse the system. However, sudden changes can be hard on the system, and it is wise to talk to a professional about this.

People may start thinking about colon cleanses when they experience constipation. Constipation is a frequent problem in today's culture because of all the processed food. Processed food does not have the fiber that natural fruits, vegetables, and whole grains have. Because of this, there is not enough intestinal fiber to sweep the intestines clean. People then turn to stimulants designed to increase peristalsis, which is the contraction and movement of the intestinal tract. However, continued use of stimulants can result in dependence upon them as well as electrolyte depletion. Therefore, a better to approach colon health is with a diet that includes fiber, and also with colon cleansing supplements that do not deplete and weaken the intestines.

Lack of colon cleansing can provide accumulations which become homes to parasites or bad intestinal flora. It is believed that colon cleanses can help with constipation, and also reduce the chances of colon cancer, due to the fact the intestine is keep cleaner. Signs a cleanse may be needed are constipation, headaches, loss of appetite, and fatigue. A colon cleanse helps clean the intestines of toxins which are behind these negative feelings.

There are disputes between the holistic community and the medical community regarding colon cleanses. As with all things, a careful examination of the language being used and whether a comparison of apples with oranges being done is needed. Any concerns should be directed to your health professional. It helps if the health professional is educated in the fields of nutrition and holistic health. The popular support to colon cleanses by those who have experienced them indicate that on a popular and personal level, people enjoy the sense of internal cleanness and lightness they experience.

Finally, an important part of any colon cleans is to drink lots of water. As the toxins leave the body in urine and feces, the body needs more water to replenish the liquid lost. Good, clean water is important during a colon cleanse.