When we hear the word “natural,” it is easy to assume it is something perfectly healthy that Digestive Health Services would approve. Not so fast. Never assume that labeling something as healthy means it’s actually good for you. This is especially true when it comes to a “natural” colon cleanse because there are some important health and safety warnings for a natural colon cleanse you should know.
The Best Natural Cleanse
Using plain old water is probably the best and safest way to cleanse your colon of waste, harmful substances, and relieve constipation. Drinking water every single day, and often, is the healthiest natural way to keep your system functioning as it should.
Although other liquids are helpful, water is best to move stool more easily through the colon, and without any added calories. Since constipation is a risk factor for colon cancer, drinking lots of water is a win-win.
Popular Cleanses
Juices
The juice cleanse is a popular way to clean out your colon. Although it can be helpful, many health authorities do not recommend juice cleanses due to possible risks it can pose to the kidneys and liver, and it can be especially dangerous for those with diabetes.
It is best to mix fruits like bananas, apples, pears, and prunes into a smoothie and combine them this way.
Fiber Cleanse
Consuming fiber helps to bulk up stool and aids its movement through the colon. Consider eating sufficient amounts of nuts, beans, berries, and whole grain cereals to keep things “moving.”
Other popular ways to cleanse include the following:
- Lemon juice
- Fermented foods like yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and certain cheeses
- Starches like sweet potatoes, corn, rice, and buckwheat
To Cleanse or Not to Cleanse
Many refer to a colon cleanse as a detox, flushing, or a bowel cleanse. Proponents of cleansing tell us it will improve health, remove toxins, boost energy, and enhance our immune system. They say it will reduce bloating and gas, and can even help with weight loss.
Many health professionals do not consider every type of cleanse to be healthy, and they tell us there is little to no evidence that it actually helps remove toxins from the body.
Never begin a cleanse without first speaking with Digestive Health Services.
Beware of colon cleansing products and note safety warnings on each of them. There are a multitude of unhealthy side effects that individuals may experience with these products. Diarrhea is a significant one. Not only can diarrhea make someone dehydrated, it can also change their electrolyte levels and lead to lightheadedness, leg cramps, or abnormal heart rhythms.
Those with pre-existing bowel conditions like Crohn’s Disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, or heart disease should avoid colon cleansing. In addition, the loss of healthy gut bacteria can increase any person’s risk of infection.
Unless you are about to undergo a medical procedure like a colonoscopy and under a doctor’s care, never begin a cleanse without first checking with Digestive Health Services. Contact us with questions.
As always, if you have any further questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call (630) 434-9312
