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Colon Cleansing Facts

by Brad McHargue

Overview

Colon cleansing, also known as colonic irrigation, is a common procedure mired in controversy. According to Dr. Michael Picco of MayoClinic.com, in addition to its use in cleaning the colon prior to an invasive medical procedure known as a colonoscopy, it can also be a voluntary procedure used by those who wish to flush out excess waste and toxins in the body. Using this procedure for such a reason is generally thought to be unnecessary and a health hazard.
Background

Colon cleansing is most often used by those who seek to rid the colon of excess waste and fecal build-up. This notion is rooted in the idea that the colon is the seat of a healthy body. Although a healthy digestive system is important, the colon is self-cleansing and due to the risk of potential complications, a colonic irrigation is a highly unnecessary procedure. In the mid-1980s, the Infectious Disease Branch of the California Department of Health Services concluded that no physician should be performing a colonic irrigation, as there are no health benefits that have been scientifically proven.

Risks

The primary risk of a colon cleanse is dehydration. As such, you should consume adequate amounts of water during and after the procedure to prevent this from occurring. Another possible problem is the use of laxatives in the solution (for example, sodium phosphate), which have the potential to increase the amount of electrolytes in the system, raising the risk of complications among those with heart disease or kidney disease.
Alternatives

Colon cleanses are often used to treat constipation, though this is a condition that can be treated without the aid of an invasive procedure. Before undergoing the treatment, try and relieve your constipation through the adequate consumption of water and fiber. This helps make your stool smoother and easier to pass, as well as help clean out your system naturally. In addition, regular exercise can help regulate your digestive tract and promote healthy bowel movements.
Precautions

Before undergoing a colon cleanse for detoxification purposes, a few precautionary measures should be followed. Always check to ensure that your medical insurance covers the procedure, and that the practitioner you have chosen is licensed and uses clean, disposable instruments. Procure a list of the ingredients used in the cleanse beforehand, as some of the herbal ingredients can cause unwanted reactions in some individuals.
Concerns

According to the National Council Against Health Fraud, a survey conducted in 1991 by the Wisconsin Board of Physician Quality Assurance concluded that colonic irrigation is not widely regulated. The procedure has become a fetish, used by those seeking sexual pleasure or by those who feel they are unclean and need to rid their body of unwanted impurities. Its effects are psychological, as seeing the waste leaving your body gives you a feeling of cleanliness that is unwarranted and not scientifically verifiable.