Is a Colon Cleanser Necessary?

Like fad diets and wonder supplements, colon cleansing has emerged as a popular way to lose weight and remove toxins from the body. While colon cleansing's supporters tout the benefits of colonic products, many medical professionals agree that colon cleansing is not only unnecessary, it can sometimes be dangerous.

What are Colon Cleansers?

• Colon cleansers fall into two categories: oral/rectal supplements and colonic irrigation. Oral supplements--laxatives, herbal teas, enzymes and antiparastics--and rectal supplements in the form of enemas and suppositories work by inducing the colon to expel its contents. These oral/rectal supplements can be purchased widely, and the ingredients used vary widely, as well.

  Colonic irrigation, which works similar to an enema, is performed by a colonic hygienist/therapist, who flushes the colon with water and/or supplements.

What Do Colon Cleansers Do?

• Proponents of colon cleansing make many claims about the benefits of these supplements and procedures, touting detoxification, weight loss and improved health. While colon cleansing can result in minimal weight loss, other benefits have not been scientifically supported, especially the claims of detoxification, which are almost impossible to prove or disprove.

  In most cases, all colon cleansing accomplishes is emptying of the colon, whether by physical means, as in the case of colonic irrigation, or by oral or rectal inducement, as in supplements. This cleansing effect is temporary, obviously.

Is a Colon Cleanser Necessary?

• Colon cleansers are sometimes necessary, such as when they are used to clear the colon in order for medical tests such as colonoscopies to be performed. However, many doctors believe that as a detoxification or weight loss attempt, colon cleansers are not necessary, as the colon and digestive system will, when functioning healthily, clean and detoxify the body without the need for supplements or procedures.

  Furthermore, there is also some concern in the medical community that when overused or misused, colon cleansers can be dangerous, as supplements can interfere with medical conditions and/or medications. There is also concern that supplement colon cleansers can result in dehydration.

  The safety of colonic irrigation has also come into question in the medical community. Not all colonic hygienists/therapists are certified or properly trained, and misuse of equipment and/or use of unsanitary or unsuitable equipment is a concern.

  If you are considering a colon cleanse, either by supplement or colonic irrigation, consult with your health care provider to determine whether this is necessary, whether the colon cleanse of your choice is safe, or to help find a trained colonic hygienist/therapist.