Colon Detox

The word "detox" has become the new buzzword for this decade. Years ago most people associated a detox with overcoming alcohol or drug addictions. As natural health has become more prevalent, our understanding of how everyday toxins effect the body is broadening. From a holistic perspective, the colon is the root of many common illnesses and chronic diseases. Regular cleansing of the colon and digestive system is the key to preventing sickness.

What are toxins?

• Toxins are everywhere, in the food we eat, the air we breathe and many products that we use everyday. Unfortunately, many toxins and undigested food end up in the large intestine, or colon. This waste sits in the colon and, if it is not passed, eventually gets absorbed through the lining of the colon walls into the bloodstream and outer tissues. Some common diseases associated with a toxic colon include:

  * Leaky gut syndrome
  * Chronic fatigue syndrome
  * Migraines or chronic headaches
  * Food allergies or sensitivities
  * Chronic constipation, which can lead to "mega-colon"
  * Irritable bowel syndrome
  * Adult acne and other skin conditions
  * Obesity

  While you always want to check with your health care practitioner if you suffer from any of the above conditions, the first line of defense should be to cleanse the digestive tract.

How to cleanse...

• The detox process can last anywhere from three to 30 days depending on the individual constitution and the level of toxicity. For starters, try a basic five-day colon cleanse (see below), and then work up to regular two-week cleanses once or twice a year for optimal health. Here is a sample five-day plan:

  Night before the cleanse

  Eat a light dinner. No evening snacking!
  Take a mild colon cleansing herb or detox tea just before going to bed. No senna, it is harsh and habit forming. Aloe, Cascara Sagrada, black walnut, buckthorn and slippery elm with peppermint or lemon are OK.

  Day 1

  Eat only fresh or lightly steamed fruits and vegetables this day.
  No meat, dairy or grains of any kind.
  No soda, coffee, shakes or smoothies. Low sugar fruit juice and herbal teas are OK.
  Drink plenty of lemon water throughout the day.
  Take a mild colon cleansing herb or detox tea just before going to bed.

  Day 2

  No solid food this day. Vegetable broth is OK.
  No soda, coffee, shakes or smoothies. Low sugar fruit juice and herbal teas are OK.
  Drink plenty of lemon water throughout the day.
  Take a mild colon cleansing herb or detox tea just before going to bed.

  Day 3

  No solid food again this day. Vegetable broth is OK.
  No soda, coffee, shakes or smoothies. Low sugar fruit juice and herbal teas are OK.
  Drink plenty of lemon water throughout the day.
  Take a mild colon cleansing herb or detox tea just before going to bed.

  Day 4

  Last day of no solid foods. Vegetable broth is OK.
  No soda, coffee, shakes or smoothies. Low sugar fruit juice and herbal teas are OK.
  Drink plenty of lemon water throughout the day.
  Take a mild colon cleansing herb or detox tea just before going to bed.

  Day 5

  Have a piece of fruit for breakfast. Stewed green apples are ideal.
  For lunch have a green salad with a little balsamic vinegar for dressing.
  Still no dairy, meat or grains.
  For dinner have one cup steamed brown rice with steamed vegetables. No other starches.
  No soda, coffee, shakes or smoothies. Low sugar fruit juice and herbal teas are OK.
  Drink plenty of lemon water throughout the day.
  Take a mild colon cleansing herb or detox tea just before going to bed.

  The day following the cleanse

  Continue drinking plenty of water. Ease back into your "normal" diet, but avoid processed foods whenever possible. The staple of your diet should come from whole grains, legumes, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Continue the colon cleansing herbs or detox teas for another seven to 10 days if desired. Do not use for more then 30 days to avoid dependency.

Warning!

• Be aware that a thorough cleanse will also produce some negative side effects. As the toxins are drawn out of the body and flushed away, people may experience headaches, nausea, extra bowel movements, frequent urination and even mood swings. Be patient. These side effects are temporary, and are a result of the purging process. Once the cleanse is complete, you should feel refreshed and more energetic. You may even experience a decrease in cravings for sweets and processed foods, and will naturally crave healthier foods.

  For colon cleansing herbs, try the websites below, or, check your local natural health food store.