What Is Hydrocolon Cleansing?

Hydrocolon cleansing or colon hydrotherapy is a technique which involves the removal of mucus waste accumulated in the colon by literally flushing it with water (hence the name hydro). This makes it possible to completely clean the colon in one session rather than by gradual consumption of herbs and supplements over a lengthier period of time. Hydrocolon cleansing is usually performed by a trained colonic therapist.

Procedure

• Hydrocolon cleansing involves sending low pressure water through a tube inserted into the rectum of the patient. This tube passes water through the large intestine, washing off the mucus waste stuck to the colon walls and draining the polluted water from the body through another tube. A colonic therapist usually takes care of this procedure and regulates the flow of water and massages the abdomen to dislodge any fecal matter stuck to the colon.

Benefits

• First, the entire procedure can be completed within a single session, which lasts about an hour. Second, even fecal matter stuck in the colon for years may be expunged from the body, while harmful bacteria and parasites developed by the presence of mucus matter are drained, allowing efficient absorption of nutrients and vitamins from food. Last but not least, faster relief from bloating, gas pains, stomachaches and constipation caused by undigested matter in the colon is achieved through hydrocolon cleansing.

Drawbacks

• Just as there are benefits to hydrocolon cleansing, there are also drawbacks. For some, the process itself can be quite embarrassing, since the procedure needs to be done in the presence of a therapist and involves insertion of tubes into the rectum. Plus, hydrocolon cleansing can be expensive compared to other means of cleansing. However, the cost of the procedure varies relative to the location of treatment site. Lastly, some useful bacteria may be flushed out along with the harmful bacteria during the treatment.

Possible Side Effects

• Bloating, nausea, abdominal pains, and severe cramps are side effects one may face during and after hydrocolon cleansing. This is a result of the toxins embedded in the colon being removed and flushed rapidly, effecting an instantaneous change in mechanics of the body. These side effects usually only last a few days and are more due to the sudden release of fecal matter and toxins than cleansing itself. These effects can be reduced by adhering to a healthy routine before and after the procedure and following the tips in the following section.

Avoiding Side Effects

• The side effects mentioned above can be avoided through a number of means. First, drink lots of water to compensate for the dehydration that may result from draining the colon. Eat in moderation (don't stuff yourself) so that the cleansing proceeds smoothly. Take supplements like probiotics to compensate for the useful bacteria that may have been flushed during cleansing. Exercise regularly to flush toxins from the body faster in the form of sweat. Last but not least, divert your attention away from the side effects by focusing on other external activities like movies, music, and sports.