Colon Cleansing

I wouldn't do it. Everything I've read says there is no science behind it. Your body DOES NOT need to be "detoxed".

If you aren't feeling good, go to the doctor. Check in with a nutritionist. Eat healthy foods, exercise, get more sleep. If you're depressed, see a good therapist. If you think it will help, get regular massages, or see an acupuncturist, but really, there is no good reason to do a colon cleanse.

And not to burst anyone's bubble, but certain people here are trying to sell you their product, and I'd take their advice with a healthy dose of skepticism.

If you can find a certified hydrotherapist, try it. I started going to colon hydrotherapy about 9 years ago and it changed my life--it jump started my colon so instead of having a bowel movement maybe once a week, i have one everyday now. I only use the hydrotherapy now when i feel like i'm coming down with something (usually most sicknesses happen because the body is so full of toxins from a poor diet, stress, any sort of imbalance which can disrupt bowel movement). It's not an unpleasant experience, for 30-45 min you just lie there with maybe 3cm of tube up your butt). Afterwards, I feel lighter, sleep better (and deeper), skin is also clearer. I've gone to a lot of places and most will push you to do 3-5 colon cleanses in a row if it's your first time, which i feel is unnecessary. Also, add yogurt and/or pure probiotics to your diet (can be found at Wholefoods--i like Udo's choice or Jarrow's, but haven't tried other products). If you're talking about a product, or a detox, try psyllium husk and bentonite clay, these are products which will help you cleanse your colon. (and probiotics are good for all the time, any time!) Hope this helps, good luck.

hi M.,
hopefully this finds you with a resolution, however i feel compelled to post just in case. i have been having regularity issues for years. well intentioned people have offered a number of remedies. i always research pros and cons prior to taking anything. many of the drugstore type stuff came up con. now i do have to state that i do not eat all my vegies, never really have. this i know and accept, however this lack of vegies has spanned my whole life, 41 years now, and the irregularity is only a few years old. i also have back problems which can have an impact on the bowels. ok. so after searching and researching and sometimes trying things i finally found a now trusted health store. they recommended psyllium whole husks by yerba prima. very inexpensive and can be taken on a daily basis. i only need one tablespoon per night with a glass of water and the next a.m., voila! I pray this finds you nice and cleansed. i do urge you to do research prior to taking anything even if it seems harmeless. this particular product i have found to be safe, however it is a diuretic and needs to be supplemented with an extra glass of water.

Blessings,
K.

Hi there- I'm a naturopath so I thought I'd my 2 cents since this is an area that I hear a lot about. Although I often work with people on "cleanses," it is not really about cleaning out the colon. As someone previously said, unless you are impacted or have some nerve problems in the intestines, or you are about to have some sort of procedure requiring you to evacuate everything out- it is not necessary to "clean" them. But doing the occasional "cleanse," i.e.- some extra fiber to help get one regular, eating lots of fresh and steamed veggies, fresh fruits and whole grains, clean water and avoiding all the junk foods and junk beverages for a while can be so helpful for many things. And yes, certain herbs can be stimulating to the stomach, the gall bladder, and the lower intestines- but these are not always necessary- and some can be quite irritating. Usually, doing a cleanse is also part of a greater ritual of taking it easy, resting, and other self care to give the body a chance to do repairs. Many times, when people get sick more often, they are worn out from one thing or another- and need to relax/sleep more, take less caffeine, eat more nutritiously and exercise more regularly. Sounds like you are a busy mom AND working full time, so do whatever you can to delegate and get even a sliver of time for yourself- it is worth it.

Hi M.
I am not a medical professional but I have spent my first 50 years chronically constipated. Thought I was normal.I started taking reliv products for some energy and am so regular now-it is effortless.This and the great energy all together. Colon cleansing is a false stimulus on your colon but taking the Reliv nutrition with fibrestore daily gives you everything u need. Seems to make a lot more safe sense. And just because someome has MD next to their name-they don't know about nutrition- only drugs. I asked my primary if he studied nutrition and he said no-not enough time cuz they need to know too many other things. WOW-Priorities!!! Take this info for what it's worth. I now ask many more questions.
J. H

hi M.,
I am a certified personal trainer and nutritional specialist.Iread your request and I have to tell you that its not a good idea to use a colon cleanse and I'll to you why.Your body naturally cleans out "toxins" through the liver and digestive system.You didnt mention why you were looking into doing this but if it's due to constipation then increase your fiber and lots of water,if your looking to using this to simply rid your body of harmful toxins (this is what were told thru companies that try to sell colonics)but using these can cause problems like dehydration and will rid of both the good and bad bacteria in your digestive tract.there are natural ways of of getting good results like eating the high fiber diet,high protein and carbs(not all are created equal) and exercise.

good luck,H.

I actually read all of the responses. Most of the people who were recommending the cleanse were people who either did the procedures for a living or were selling products that cleanse. I've asked my doctor about it before. (She's Dutch if that matters) She said (DON'T) that the body is built to take care of itself. If you're not feeling well, taking vitamins, exercising (that works best for me) & eating well are the best ways to feel better. If doing that for a while doesn't work, go back to the doctor & ask them what's next. I exercised an hour each day, drank 64 oz water & just avoided fast food/soda/junky snacks (sticking to mostly trail mix, granola bars, whey protein, "healty" stuff) for 4 months. I dropped over 10 lbs, went from a 16 to a 12, my face cleared up, I wasn't tired all of the time, I was able to stop taking my depression meds (I have mild depression, don't go off any meds unless you check w/your doc first) & I felt great! Making fast food & soda a special treat will also help your preteen through puberty & get your 3 year old on a healthy track in life too-both bonuses!
Good luck to you!

Maybe I am missing something here but why would you want to? As a nurse I can tell you this is done for people that are constipated and/or impacted and it is not all that pleasant. Otherwise there is no real benefit to doing this.

I have had a friend that did it and her feedback after doing it is to never do it again.

I guess it is one of those new trendy things to do:) If you do it let us know what you think!

Not sure why you think you need a colon cleanse? I've never used one, but the best "cleaner" is a diet rich in vegetables and whole grains, while light on red meat and fatty foods. Top that off with plenty of water and your system should take care of itself.

I just read, once again, that colon cleansing does absolutely nothing for you. The colon cleanses itself. Do a google search and you can probably find plenty of articles by very reputable researchers that say this. Compare the qualifications of those reserachers with those who recommend colon cleansing.

AH

You don't need to clean your colon. A healthy diet (lots of good fiber) and plenty of water and it (along with the rest of your digestive system) will take care of itself. If you are having problems with constipation or something else see a doctor. If you have a history of colon cancer in your family talk to your dr about getting a colonoscopy sooner than your 50s.

Hi Michele,
I haven't bothered to read the responses to your question, but, here is mine: DON'T do it. My uncle died after having one done in Miami. His colon burst. Everyone is made different. Our intestines are not all the same size, so it is difficult to know how much fluid is to be used. If you are having problems, see your doctor. PLEASE

Hi M., I have never done a colon cleanse. I had a hysterectomy in Jan, before my surgery my Dr requested I clean myself out as trying to potty after was not going to be fun. I have been using metamucil (I like the orange one) ever since, I feel better using this regularly and it is also good for you because of all the fiber.

It doesn't give you the runs, it makes you regular. We both now take it before bed and wake up to a clean happy colon! Yes, it makes a difference and clears the gunk out of your pipes naturally.

Why do your friends think you need this? Ask you doctor for a safer product - a lot of them can be harsh and set your system off balance. I've had friends to this and regret it.

I know I am late, but I just wanted to say that I think you should stay away from all those pills. To do a natural cleans just eat lots of fresh fruits and vegis, yogurt, and drink lots of water. This will naturally balance out your system in about a week, same amount of time as the pills only so much healthier and safer. You can even look up cleansing recipes on the internet to keep food fun during the time.

Hi M.,
Colon cleansing is very good for you. Many people or main stream doctors dont believe in it. I see a naturopath and see a a chiropractor weekly and both have explained the benefits. I myself have done aoubt 4 or 5 (over a period of years). They say to do one every 6 months or so. I can tell you that physically, you feel great. At first you might have a headache or flu like symptoms which is just the toxins leaving your system.
Good Luck!

M. you posted your question in July and our part of the country doesn't see these until you give feedback. Most of the answers here are not based upon anything. I think you need to talk to a couple of hydrotherapists- not just one- and talk to people that have had this done. Most people love it. If I could afford to have it done with some regularity I would. It is not cheap. Please read Dr. Bernard Jensen's book about Colon Cleansing. He shows you how to do one at home and what supplements and fiber to take BEFORE doing one. Of course there are the usual gross pictures of aliens being removed from the bowel. ;-)
I actually "took" my patients to three different therapists in town and let them interview the technician and see the equipment. All equipment is different. Some is gravity fed and others have pressure equipment. You must have a good relationship with the therapist- like you might with a psychologist.
I can understand why you would be curious. You can feel quite different and 'lighter' afterwards. You probably won't feel much different after just one session but even one will help. Just talk to the therapists in your area and let them explain their choice for equipment and their philosophy. It's a big step but can be a good one.

Hi M.,

I wuold recommend Nutriclean. It's a 7 day cleanse and is gentle and all natural. I just did the cleanse a month ago and felt great. I do think it's important though to always get enough fiber in your daily diet. You can read all about the product and order at this link.

http://www.marketamerica.com/afernandes/index.cfm?action=...

I got a series of 10 colonics last year during/after a 2 week detox diet cleanse I did (this was NOT the maple syrup/lemon juice detox diet cleanse but a detox based on greens/other veggies: juicing & pureed soups mainly. It was called the Martha's Vineyard Detox: http://mvdietdetox.com/).

I LOVED the colonics. They made me feel like a million bucks. I went here (a place on Headhouse Square - 2nd & South Sts in Philly) & saw Naomi: http://www.healthconnectionscenter.com/

I can't wait to get them again after I have my baby in a few weeks.

Yes! Good idea, once my baby is born I am doing another colon cleanse. A great one that is safe with no Toxins in it is Dual Action Cleanse by Klee Irvin. You may have seen him on TV.
The website is www.dualactioncleanse.com
Call them up with any questions you have before ordering!
It works great but you have to follow the directions to a T.
Like healthy low fat, low sat fat diet, ect. Which was hard for me, but I did it and felt great after.
Don't listen to those saying a cleanse is not necessary and that eating lots of fiber, taking laxatives is enough. Because those do not "clean out your colon walls" they just clean the intestines only. Again a rep at dual action cleanse can fill you in better than I can.

I wouldn't do it either. Despite what is being touted as being healthy is more or less a new "snake oil" method.
If you are getting sick frequently you should go to your doctor and ask to be tested for Celiac disease. 1 out of 133 people have this auto immune disease and don't even know it. It causes your body to be allergic to gluten, a protein mainly from wheat, but also from barley, oats and malts. A simple blood test can help and your doctor will decide from that if you need further testing. "google" celiac disease and see if you fit the profile!

HI M.:

I have to agree with Angela...almost all the people who say YES to the cleasing, are either selling something or gaining from it in some other way...I wouldn't count on them for neutral information. I hear Doctors say all the time that these types of things are dangerous, and advise against them. Your body has a way of ridding itself of these things...I would certainly try the cleanse AFTER a talk with a doctor or nutritionist or health counselor.

Good Luck!

S.

Hey M.,
My husband & I did a colon cleanse about 2 yrs. ago. Let me start by saying I'm really not into this type of stuff. I'm more of a conventional type of person as is my husband. My husband & I had done 6 mos. of travelling in S. America and I have two aunts who were persistent we really needed to cleanse ourselves. Anyways, we did several other cleanses all at the same time. I'd say we took it to the extreme and started w/ a raw diet, then a "clean diet," and ended w/ a 5 day fast. In total I think it was 43 days long - again it was more than just a colon cleanse. My husband said he felt incredible & had lots of energy. I on the other hand had a significant decrease in energy. I was exhausted - granted, I was commuting at the time and up really early in the morning. Before we did the colon cleanse, I saw all these nasty pics of what comes out of you. Well, sure some gross looking stuff came out. Then I realized, as part of the cleanse, you drank some nasty green stuff that if you didn't get it down fast enough, it ended up like gelatin. I guess it helps scrape your colon. Anyways, I realized that was the stuff that came out of me that I'd seen in the pics. I'm sure there was other scraped stuff too. To sum it up, I don't think I would do this again. We took so many pills, it was unbelievable. On the positive side, we tried to get pregnant right after this. On the 1st try I was pregnant. I don't know if there is any correlation, but I still wonder. The name of what we used was Blessed Herbs. Best of luck to you!

Hi Michele,
I am very experienced in colon cleansing. I do it regularly one per year (course of 10 times). I think its great and everybody should do it periodically.
First of all - any colon cleansig of course will be done only after consulattion with a special doctor, who will see if you dont have any special conditions where it will not be recommended.
And I think, that if you do not very natural things (most what is sold in grocerrie stores is not natural, with a lot chemical additives, sugars, sodium and etc, if you dont exercise a lot, if you have stress), than - you have to make special efforts to stay healthy and clean.
I also have 2 little kids (4 and 1), and my stomach became normal and flat only after a very good cleanse after those pregnant periods.
My advise is - to do
I always feel just great after that for a long period, even if I dont eat well after that...
And its important to take some pill with good bacterias after that for a mounth or so. If you have more questions - you can ask me.
And you need to read more about it from people who did it.

80 % of your immune system is in your gut. 80% of your serotoinin is also in your gut! Your gut is where it's "all at" and if it there are problems going on in it you will feel pretty crappy.

Dr Mark Hyman, among others, said that ALL diseases are caused by bacteria, virus, and parasites. As you can see by the attached list, the intestines/colon is a favorite place for them to hang out. And I don't think this is a full list. There are many cell wall deficient Bacteria's that are parasitic that are NOT listed, babesia, erlichia,Bartonella, and more.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_parasites_(human)

I Think you should start with a deworm/anti-parasite program. Because we bring them in on our shoes and in our food and water, we should be de-parasited every 6-12 months, just like we do with or pets and livestock.
Black walnut hull, wormwood, and home-ground cloves will rid you of many parasites. Look online. Again grind your own cloved from store bought whole cloves because the power leaves them soon after grinding. Put the powder in 00 capsules from your health food store.

Samento and Cumanda will rid you of much bacterial parasites. 2 drops 4 times a day. one month for each year being sick. So if you've had bartonella or Bb bacteria since you were a kid,(as many have) you'd be on it for years.

Here's another site to check out. Eye opening:
http://www.marshallprotocol.com/forum32/1263.html

Hi M.

I'm in the process of doing a whole body cleanse. It's a two week program and I just started last night. It cleases the colon and the liver. If it works out I'm intending to do a candida cleanse.

I'll let you know how I feel after two weeks if you remind me. I got mine from GNC. It's in a green box and says WHOLE BODY CLEANSE on it with some labels in yellow. I chose that one because it's totally vegetarian as opposed to the others I found that were in gelatin caps.

In the meantime, I can tell you that colon cleanses are recommended because your body needs to rid itself of all of the excess fecal matter that can plaster itself to your colon.

Hope this helps. I can be of more use in 2 weeks. :)

~H.

M., I know it has been over 8 months and you have probably either done it or decided not to. I totally agree with the personal trainer and several others because I have read that our bodies are made to remove toxins. These cleanses are very expensive. You can get a good clean out real cheap with the liquid stuff at Walgreens before a colonoscopy. You need to stay close to a bathroom for a day. But endicriologists don't like you to use these any more than every 2 years and there is a reason why. Our bodies are perfect and will take care of themselves.

I guess I didn't realize there were so many different colon clenses out there. I went to a reputable naturalpath doc because we were having miscarriages and the regular docs couldn't help us. The naturalpath that we went to was the same one that cured my dad of colon cancer about 10 years ago. I also had problems with diarreha and such.

So, he put us on this colon clense kit that last for 7 days. You do not eat any regular food. You drink this liquid and take some pills (vitamins because you're not eating) that come with the kit. You alternate off between the 2 every 1 1/2 hours. (Number of times depends on your weight.) And he had us switch to organic products as well. 6 months after doing the clense (and this was the first month of trying) we conceived our son. He was born full term and healthy! We have not had a miscarriage since. We are trying to conceive again and if it doesn't happen soon we are planning on doing another colon clense.

No they are not pleasant. It is very hard to not eat for 7 days. You get tired and bored since you're so used to eating all the time. Although I got a lot more work done than usual that week! The first day and the last day seem to be the hardest. When it's all over though, you do feel a ton better. My husband lost 20+ pounds on the last one he did! And he's kept it off. Our naturalpath doc reccomends doing one every 6 months or so. They are expensive though. I think the brand he had us on ran about $175 a kit...

M. - don't know if you drink soda... but recently have learned about the toxicity of having an acidic system. Soda and certain foods tend to change the pH of our bodies

http://www.tfiaz.com/TFI_nutrition.html

copy and paste this website to your browser and check out or you might search on pH on the web to see the research that has come out about this.

D. C

Hi M.,

I've been considering doing this as well. I have a friend who did it - but stopped after 5 days (she found out she was pregnant & couldn't continue ...) but she thought it was great. On the other hand, my husband's aunt 'claims' she's done every one out there - the most expensive, the most popular, the cheapest, the 'best', etc & says that they're all terrible & make you have diarreah at any time - like basically you'll be walking at the mall & you could literally poop your pants b/c of it???? i don't know - she's a bit cuckoo if you ask me! I"m interested to see some responses! Good luck!

Is there a reason why you want to do a colon cleanse - weight gain, etc.?

Hi M. - Catch me up here. Why on earth would you need a colon cleanse?? (I'm totally serious...)

Colon Cleansing is not mainstream medicine, but it is undeniably beneficial. I read all your responses, and you can tell the ones that have experienced it vs the ones who think they know.

My advice is to educate yourself first. I can help you do that. There are many approaches to colon cleansing so it is not a one-size-fits all.

Keep searching. We are the captains of our own ships (bodies). The more we nurture it, the better it will feel, the more disease resistant it will be, and the longer it will live with vitality.

Seek on...