Colon Detox
In recent years, colon detox therapy has gained enormous popularity as a means of improving and maintaining good health. Toxins are all around us—in the air we breathe, in food that has been treated with pesticides or infused with artificial additives and chemicals, in products containing plastics, and in harsh household cleaners. Since more than 50 percent of the body’s immune system function is located in the digestive system, particularly the large intestine, it makes sense that physicians and naturopathic practitioners would advocate body detox for many patients.
While these programs are somewhat controversial, advocates insist that without proper and regular detoxification the body’s natural defense mechanisms are inhibited, leading to inadequate nutrient absorption, digestive malfunction, headaches, bad breath, irritability, fatigue, increased risk of infection, and even depression and weight gain.
The health and beauty market is saturated with a variety of products that claim to help cleanse the colon and detoxify the body. These products generally promise incredible results—ridding the body of parasites, harmful bacteria, toxic substances, removing pounds of waste residue from the colon.
Anecdotal research suggests that the most effective detox programs take at least 30 days and up to six months or longer to work thoroughly. Be wary of any product that promises a “quick fix” or “fast results.” A successful colon detox should work for the majority of people who try it; look for positive, detailed customer testimonials on blogs, message boards, forums and company websites. A product offered by a legitimate company will come with a solid money-back guarantee and an easy return policy. Trustworthy companies will have been in business for several years, will fully disclose essential fine print on their websites regarding product ingredients and other important information, will have a toll-free phone number and a physical address (no post office boxes) clearly listed, will offer secure online ordering, and will have verifiable endorsement from qualified medical professionals. When comparing prices, expect to pay an average of $50-$100 for a worthy product—anything less than $50 should be considered suspiciously cheap; anything more than $100 is generally too expensive.
Another option for body detox is colon hydrotherapy or irrigation, a process by which purified water is passed through the colon in small doses and waste is filtered away. This procedure essentially contracts and tones the bowel, making it possible to eliminate waste and reduce toxins in the body. Colon hydrotherapy has been known to ease the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulosis, skin problems, and urinary tract conditions. A search of the local telephone listings can help you locate a licensed, registered colon hydrotherapist.
Many body detox and colon detox programs also involve the introduction of probiotics, or helpful bacteria, as well as nutritional supplements, herbal infusions and vitamin regimens. These complementary therapies replace essential nutrients lost during the detox process and can improve overall results.
Detox devotees insist that these programs improve digestive function, increase mental clarity, boost the immune system, and can have a significant impact on weight issues when accompanied by diet and lifestyle changes.
