Monday, May 11, 2009

Various Colon Cleansing Methods

There are countless reasons to perform a colon cleanse and in today’s world with the increased toxins, stress and lower levels of nutrition it is becoming more and more important for people to regularly cleanse their colons in order to stay at their optimum health.

Having a healthy colon helps to combat a variety of health complaints and problems that may arise such as weight issues, constipation, fatigue and even colon cancer.

Below are some colon cleansing methods which you might want to take a look at :

Colon Hydrotherapy (also called colonic irrigation or colenema) – This is similar to an enema as warm water is filtered into the colon through a plastic tube in the anus. This is a delicate procedure that should only ever be performed by a trained professional and by FDA approved equipment. These methods cleanse the large intestine only and are affective for immediate relief. It is invasive and uncomfortable so should be only be undertaken if it is urgently required.

Laxatives – These are oral forms of colon cleansing and are, like the enemas, used to combat constipation by short term use. Laxatives work by softening the stools and cause the intestinal and colonic muscles to contract which then cause a bowel movement and the expulsion of waste.

Laxatives are good method for occasional constipation and are not a good remedy for long term disorders and problems. They will not work on removing the waste matter and toxins that are stuck on the walls of the colon and intestines. As well as not removing impacted waste, laxatives can cause dehydration if taken without plenty of water, again, hence they should only be used for short term relief.

Enemas – The most common method used for relieving constipation and involves, similarly to the hydrotherapy, a small amount of water being passed through the colon to clear the bowels.

This method works by loosening the faeces that are in the colon and clears the waste matter that is stuck to the colon wall. This is a very useful method to be used in cases of extreme constipation and is not a long term method of improving health and well being. It is an invasive and awkward method and can only be done under extremely clean and professional conditions.

Oxygen Based Colon Cleaners – This is largely thought of as the most effective method of colon cleansing and is a natural but useful way to remain healthy and active. Oxygen based colon cleansers are taken orally and help to speed up and amplify the effect that oxygen has around the body. They can help to rejuvenate and maintain a healthy colon and remove impacted faecal matter that has become built up on the walls of the intestines.

Herbal Colon Cleansers – There are a variety of herbal cleansers which mainly contain a form of plant fiber called psyllium. Psyllium acts on the stools to increase their volume which encourages the colon to contract and create a bowel movement. Herbal cleansers are very beneficial for constipation and can work well on short term discomfort, but again, are not able to work on the impacted faecal matter on the intestinal walls and will be unable to remove all the toxins and impurities. Another alternative is senna.

There are many more ways that are available and it is always best to research which one will be the most effective colon cleansing method to suit your particular needs.