This article is reviewed, corrected, and approved by: Dr. Joshua Collins M.D. | MRCP। FRCP

The colon is one of the essential parts of the digestive system and maintains your overall health. The buildup of toxins in the large intestine can sometimes cause digestive issues like constipation, bloating, abdominal discomfort, and a sense of fatigue.

Lack of knowledge about the colon and late treatment might cause severe harm to your body. So, I’ll be happy to briefly explain what colon cleanse is, how it works, what are the best colon cleansers and more. Let's dive deep.

What Is Colon?

A doctor showing the different parts of a colon. 

Proper functioning of the digestive system relies on the colon, which plays a vital role in eliminating waste and absorbing nutrients from food. Unhealthy eating habits, stress, and environmental factors lead to various health issues.

The colon, commonly known as the large intestine, is an integral part of the healthy digestive system that absorbs water and electrolytes from food and waste. The colon plays a critical role in the final phase of digestion and in eliminating waste, which are crucial for maintaining healthy bowel movements. It consists of four sections.

Parts of the colon-

  1. Ascending colon
  2. Transverse colon
  3. Descending colon
  4. Sigmoid colon

All those parts work to store undigested material until it can be eliminated as stool. The colon also secretes mucus to lubricate the intestinal walls and hosts bacteria that aid in digestion and protect against pathogens.

Maintaining a healthy colon is crucial to ensure proper digestion and waste elimination, as disruptions can lead to issues such as constipation or diarrhea.

What Is Colon Cleanse?

Colon cleanse, also known as colon hydrotherapy, gastro cleanse, or colonic irrigation, is a procedure that involves flushing out the colon with water or other liquids to remove toxins, waste, and other harmful substances that have accumulated in the large intestine.

Colon cleanses are designed to flush out these toxins, allowing your body to absorb the essential nutrients from your food more effectively.

How Does Colon Cleanse Work?

A colon cleanses works by flushing out toxins, waste, and other harmful substances from the large intestine. This process is done by inserting a tube into the rectum, which is connected to a device that sends a gentle stream of water or other liquids into the colon.

As the water or liquid enters the colon, it softens and loosens the waste materials that have accumulated on the walls of the colon. The waste and toxins are then flushed out of the colon and expelled through the rectum. The liquid is allowed to sit for a few minutes and then is released in a process called colon hydrotherapy.

This technique helps to break down and flush away any accumulated fecal matter, mucous, and hardened deposits that have built up over time. This will help the body naturally flush out toxins, waste, and other harmful substances that can lead to digestive problems such as constipation, bloating, gas, and diarrhea.

Importance Of Colon Cleanse

A healthy colon can contribute to overall wellness and reduce the risk of various health issues, such as constipation, bloating, abdominal pain, and colon cancer (colon cancer ICD 10).

Colon cleansing is believed to be an effective way to promote a healthy colon by removing accumulated waste and toxins. Waste materials and toxins can build up in the colon due to poor dietary choices, environmental factors, and other lifestyle factors. Over time, this buildup can lead to inflammation, constipation, and various other health issues.

By removing the waste and toxins, colon cleansing may help improve digestive function, boost energy levels, and reduce the risk of colon cancer. Some people report improved skin appearance, weight loss, and overall feelings of well-being following a colon cleanse.

  • The goal of a colon cleanse is to improve overall health by eliminating unhealthy bacteria, viruses, and toxins.
  • Colon cleanses can help digestion, reduce bloating, and boost energy levels.
  • Colon cleansing can relieve constipation, diarrhea, and other digestive issues.
  • It may also benefit skin conditions and chronic illnesses and reduce stress and fatigue.

However, colon cleanse should be used with a healthy diet and lifestyle changes and is not a replacement for regular medical care.

Health Benefits Of Colon Cleanse

A woman standing on a mass scale and measuring her weight

Proponents of colon cleansing claim that it's been associated with improved digestive function, increased energy, weight loss, and a stronger immune system. Some of the potential health benefits of colon cleansing include:

Improved Digestion

Colon cleansing helps remove toxic substances and litter from the colon and improves overall digestive function. It can result in less gas and loose stool and reduce abdominal discomfort.

Increased Energy

By removing accumulated waste and toxins, colon cleansing may improve energy levels and promote feelings of vitality and well-being.

Weight Loss

Some people report weight loss following a colon cleanse, although the weight loss is typically temporary and may be due to the removal of waste and excess water weight.

Reduced Risk of Colon Cancer

Colon cleansing may assist in lowering irritable bowel syndrome and the risk of colon cancer by removing toxins and waste that can lead to inflammation and damage to the colon.

Improved Skin Appearance

Some people report improved skin appearance following a colon cleanse, although limited scientific evidence supports this claim.

Regularly cleansing the colon can also reduce bloating and gas, improve concentration and mental clarity, and help reduce the risk of developing chronic illnesses such as cancer. It can strengthen your immune system by removing pollutants that might accumulate and create health problems.

Types of Colon Cleanse

A person holding a pink enema

There are several types of colon cleanses, each with its own unique approach to flushing out waste and toxins from the colon. Some of the most common types of colon cleanse include:

Water-Based Colon Cleanse

This type of colon cleanse involves using a tube to insert water into the rectum and colon. Water makes waste and contaminants more malleable, making them easier to evacuate through the rectum.

Herbal-Based Colon Cleanse

This type of colon cleanse involves taking herbal supplements believed to stimulate the colon and promote bowel movements. Some common herbs used in herbal colon cleanses include psyllium, flaxseed, and cascara sagrada.

Enema

An enema involves using a syringe or bag to insert a liquid solution, such as water or saline, into the rectum and colon. The liquid helps to soften and loosen waste and toxins, which are then expelled through the rectum.

Oxygen-Based Colon Cleanse

Colon cleansing involves the use of supplements to enhance the level of oxygen in the colon, which is believed to aid in the breakdown of waste and toxins. The rectum is then utilized to release these body waste.

Juice Cleanse

A juice cleanse involves consuming only juices and other liquids for a period of time, typically several days to a week. The idea is that by limiting solid food intake, the colon has time to rest and eliminate waste and toxins.

It is important to note that while colon cleansing may offer some benefits, it can also be associated with risks, including dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and infection.

What Are The Best Colon Cleanser Supplements?

Psyllium husk in a wooden bowl

Different supplements may work better for different individuals and specific health conditions, making it challenging to identify a single top choice. You may find colon cleanse pills in liquid, powder, or other form. Here are some examples of them

Psyllium husk: A type of soluble fiber that can promote regular bowel movements and improve stool consistency.

Probiotics: Beneficial live bacteria and yeasts enhance gut health by maintaining a healthy microbial balance in the colon.

Magnesium Citrate: A laxative that can help soften stools and relieve constipation.

Senna: Senna leaves are a natural source of laxatives that can stimulate bowel movements.  It comes from the leaves of the senna plant.

Herbal colon cleansers: Various herbal supplements such as cascara sagrada, ginger, and aloe vera are marketed as natural colon cleansers.

Scientific studies have not yet confirmed the effectiveness of colon cleanser supplements.

Colon Broom vs Metamucil

When it comes to colon cleansing, there are a few popular options available. Two options have gained significant popularity and are widely used by many “Colon Broom and Metamucil.”

Colon Broom is an herbal product that contains herbs like cascara sagrada, buckthorn bark, and slippery elm bark. It works by helping to break down toxins and waste in the large intestine. This helps to reduce bloating, gas, and constipation and improve digestion.

Metamucil is a psyllium husk fiber supplement. It helps to bulk up the stool and make it easier to pass. Its prebiotic attributes enable it to serve as a food source for beneficial gut bacteria, contributing to lessening bloating and enhancing digestive health.

Who Needs Colon Cleanse?

A woman suffering from IBS pain.

Anyone looking to enhance their digestive health and a healthy body might benefit from colon cleansing. It may be particularly beneficial for anyone suffering from

  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  • Constipation
  • Bloating
  • Gas
  • Lethargy, or
  • Other digestive disorders

Colon cleansing can help relieve symptoms and restore intestinal balance, resulting in better health. Lots of people report feeling more energized and less sluggish after completing a colon cleanse. The anti-inflammatory benefits of colon cleansing may contribute to a healthy function and better overall health.

To enhance your digestive health, consider implementing dietary and lifestyle changes colon cleanse may be a great option. Many individuals report feeling more energetic and less sluggish following a colon cleanse. Besides, colon cleansing may reduce inflammation in the body, which can contribute to improved immunity and general health.

Conclusion

Colon cleansing can also be achieved using herbal supplements, laxatives, or special diets. These techniques function by stimulating the colon's muscles to relax and push waste out of the body. It is important to note that colon cleansing can be associated with risks, including dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and infection.

Colon cleansing is not only used to help cleanse the colon but also to stimulate the digestive system. By doing it correctly, one can promotes their digestion, calorie absorption, and overall wellness. But colon cleansing is not just about physical benefits. It can also have a profound impact on mental and emotional well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I find colon cleanse near me?

Ans: For this, you may contact your nearest hospital or diagnostic center.

Q: How often should you get a colonic?

Ans: There is no universally accepted guideline on how frequently an individual should undergo colonic irrigation. The choice may be determined by a number of circumstances, including their health status and personal preference.

Q: What are the best colon cleanse for men and best colon cleanse for women?

Ans: You may find various colon cleansing supplements (best gut cleanse) and treatment options. There are no specific option is best for both men and women.

Q: What are the best colon cleansing supplements?

Ans: There are many types of colon cleansing products available in various forms. Some of the best colon cleanser supplements are super colon cleanse, cvs colon cleanse, colon broom, unicity balance, etc.

Q: What is icd 10 code for colon cancer?

Ans: This code is used to classify and report cases of malignant neoplasms or tumors in the colon. The use of standardized codes like ICD-10 is essential in healthcare for accurate and consistent reporting of diagnoses and procedures.

Q: What is the history of colon cancer icd 10?

Ans: The ICD-10 code for a personal history of colon cancer is Z85.038. This code is used to classify and report cases where an individual has a history of colon cancer.

Q: Is colon cleanse and colonoscopy the same thing?

Ans: No. colon cleansing is a process of flushing out the contents of the colon using water or other liquids. On the other hand, colonoscopy is a medical procedure that involves using a colonoscope to examine the inside of the colon.

Q: What to eat after colonoscopy?

Ans: To support the recovery of the digestive system after a colonoscopy, a light and easily digestible diet is recommended. You can start with clear liquids, then gradually add solid foods and fiber. Also, always try to be hydrated.