(ThyBlackMan.com) Many people may consider colon cleansing because they think that it reduces the risk of colon cancer and enhances health. However, no studies have shown that colon cleansings have any benefit at all.
Colon cleansing, also called colonic irrigation or colonic hydrotherapy, is sometimes referred to as a “high colonic.” As many as 20 gallons of fluid are 
pumped into the colon through a tube that’s inserted into the rectum. Probiotics, herbs, enzymes and other additives can be used in the solution. The procedure takes about an hour and practitioners do not have to be licensed to perform the cleansing process.
Colon cleansing is nothing new. Ancient civilizations are rumored to have used it, and 19th-century European spas made it a popular health remedy thousands of years later.
If you experience digestive health problems like constipation, diarrhea, gas or heartburn, you might be considering colon cleansing. But be sure to get the facts before you sign up for the procedure so you can decide whether the benefits really outweigh the risks of a colon cleanse.
Factor the Risks
There can be complications when introducing a large volume of water into the colon, including worsening any existing hemorrhoids or creating a puncture wound in the rectum. This excessive amount of fluids could potentially lead to:
• Vomiting and nausea
• Electrolyte (salt) imbalances
• Fluid in the lungs
• Heart problems, including abnormal heart rhythms and death
• Coma
Another big concern is that many colon cleansing practices aren’t regulated or monitored, and not all practitioners are knowledgeable or well trained, which may increase risks. Further, unless all equipment is clean and sterile, colonic irrigation could introduce infection into the body.
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, do not undergo colon cleansing if you have:
• Crohn’s disease
• Severe or internal hemorrhoids
• Diverticulitis
• Ulcerative colitis
• Colon or rectal tumors
• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
A Healthier Alternative
Eating the right foods and following a healthy lifestyle can accomplish the same goal as colon cleansing. Most people get them for more of a detoxification and weight loss. But the truth is that if you don’t “toxify,” you don’t need to detoxify.
If you want to rid your body of dietary toxins and get a clean start, it might be best to just change your dietary habits. Your body will naturally work out the bad foods, especially with the help of fruits and vegetables to clean out your small bowel. Just be sure that these foods are well washed so that you don’t introduce other types of toxins—chemicals such as pesticides and fertilizer residues—into your body.
Focusing on eating healthy foods poses no risks and is proven to aid digestive and overall health. And the easiest method of all to keep your body working right: Drink plenty of water.
Written by De’Laney Rowland
