Colon hydrotherapy is a term that refers to and is used to describe various methods of cleansing or irrigation of the colon. Other terms that are often used interchangeably with colon hydrotherapy are colonic irrigation, colon cleansing, and high or low colonic. The terms high and low refer to the segment of the intestinal tract, either high or low, that are being cleansed. There are also some differences in the types of solution used, but typically colon hydrotherapy involves the irrigation of the colon with natural solutions or solutions enhanced with probiotics.
Though colon hydrotherapy is considered an alternative health practice, colon cleansing is by no means a new concept. Clysters, which is a Latin word commonly used hundreds of years ago to describe an enema, were administered by physicians, apothecaries, and healers in the form of herbal remedies to relieve constipation and other intestinal complaints long before there were drug stores, gastroenterologists, and colon therapists. Many people in the early 1900s also believed in the positive effects of colon cleansing.
Regardless of its longevity, the benefits of colon cleansing have not been extensively researched and documented, but some independent studies have concluded that there are health benefits to periodically cleansing the colon. Obviously the number one reason to cleanse the colon is to relieve constipation. This can be achieved with a number of self-administered remedies including laxatives, enemas and some herbal teas. As far as maintaining colon health, there are a number of studies that show that a healthy colon-friendly diet is essential to colon health, without which colon cleansing alone may not be as effective.
A regular diet consisting of colorful fruits and vegetables, fiber rich foods and plenty of water are essential to maintaining colon health and intestinal regularity. These foods can help avoid constipation, but the purpose of colon cleansing is also based on the belief that some toxins from undigested food build up along the colon wall and can be absorbed by the body, causing symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, and intestinal discomfort.
While regular colon cleansing offers potential health benefits, it is important to understand the difference between the two types of irrigation. Low colonic cleansing refers to the process of cleansing the lower intestine with the use of self-administered products, such as enemas. High colonic cleansing is the irrigation of the upper intestine and is typically performed by a colon therapist or hygienist by pumping fluid into the colon through the rectum and flushing the intestines.
Though there are few risks associated with colon cleansing, it is also important to understand the natural function of the colon, including its ability to produce natural bacteria to detoxify food waste and the natural ability of the colon to shed cells to minimize buildup along the colon wall. Keeping the natural function of the colon in mind, as well as the potential symptoms of intestinal disorders, is a basis for determining the necessity and frequency of colon cleansing.
A normal, healthy functioning colon should not need irrigated more than once every six months. Excessive colon irrigation can result in an enzyme and mineral imbalance as well as dehydration, may cause bowel perforation or further irritate an already irritated bowel. People who have colitis, diverticulitis, ulcers, or other intestinal disorders or diseases, as well as those with kidney disease should not self-medicate or administer colon irrigators except under the direction or supervision of their physician. Similarly, children should not undergo colon cleansing or irrigation procedures except under the advice of a physician. When using a colon cleansing product or undergoing colonic hydrotherapy, be sure to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. If you have previously had an adverse reaction to a colon irrigation product, you should check with your doctor before attempting a similar product or procedure.
Colon cleansing is noted for relieving a number of common complaints besides constipation and irregularity. Some of the benefits may include increased energy and weight loss, less irritability, and improved mental state. These claims vary from person to person so you should base your decision to try colon cleansing on both past experience and current medical condition. For relief from and prevention of constipation, consumption of a regular healthy diet in conjunction with the occasional enema could be all you need.
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