There are different types of colon cleanses. The ingredients consist of therapeutic clay, fiber, diet, and herbs.
One type of cleanse uses bentonite clay, a type of therapeutic clay that absorbs toxins. It may also absorb certain medications so that is something to be aware of.
The next type of colon cleanse uses fiber products which can be mixed with juice and swallowed. Fiber increases bulk and becomes an internal broom, sweeping the intestines. A common one used is psyllium though flax seed is also popular. Fiber can help feed beneficial bacteria in the colon
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A full or partial juice fast may be used along with fiber. This is where diet comes in with eating healthy fruits and vegetables. Avoid fried and fatty foods, white foods (sugar, flour, rice, pasta), alcohol, meats and dairy.
The third colon cleanse is with using herbs. The right herbs can be very effective at cleansing the colon. Two ones to consider are cascara sagrada, aloe vera, senna leaf and slippery elm.
The first three can get the colon moving very quickly but can also be harsh. They are best used in small amounts for a limited time. These herbs are often best used as part of an overall herbal cleanse.
Energy normally used in digestion now goes to helping cleanse the system so a colon cleanse can initially make a person feel tired. Sudden changes can be hard on the system, so it is wise to talk to a professional about this.
People may start thinking about colon cleanses when they experience constipation. Constipation is a frequent problem in today’s culture because of all the processed food.
Processed food does not have the fiber that natural fruits, vegetables, and whole grains have. Because of this, there is not enough intestinal fiber to sweep the intestines clean.
People then turn to stimulants designed to increase peristalsis, which is the contraction and movement of the intestinal tract. Continued use of stimulants can result in dependence upon them as well as electrolyte depletion.
A better to approach colon health is with a diet that includes fiber, along with colon cleansing supplements that do not deplete and weaken the intestines.
Lack of colon cleansing can provide accumulations which become homes to parasites or bad intestinal flora. It is believed that colon cleanses can help with constipation, and also reduce the chances of colon cancer, due to the fact the intestine is keep cleaner.
Signs a colon cleanse may be needed are constipation, headaches, loss of appetite, and fatigue. A colon cleanse helps clean the intestines of toxins which are behind these negative symptoms.
There are disputes between the holistic community and the medical community regarding colon cleanses. As with all things, a careful examination of the language being used and whether a comparison of apples with oranges being done is needed.
Any concerns should be directed to your health professional. It helps if the health professional is educated in the fields of nutrition and holistic health.
The popular support to colon cleanses by those who have experienced them indicate that on a popular and personal level, people enjoy the sense of internal cleanness and lightness they experience. People often experience more energy, sleep better and may lose weight in the process.
Finally, an important part of any colon cleanse is to drink lots of water. As the toxins leave the body in urine and feces, the body needs more water to replenish the liquid lost. Good, clean water is important during a colon cleanse.
To learn more about detoxing and cleansing, read the Herbal Collective magazine online.
