A colon cleanse is a practice done to remove waste from the large intestine. Also known as colon irrigation, it dates back to ancient times in Greece.
It became popular in the West in the early 1900s. Nowadays, colon cleanses are performed using specific enzymes, teas, or colon irrigation.
But, is a colon cleanse a beneficial practice?- Most of the evidence about its advantages is anecdotal and the research is limited.
There’s no single proof and quality evidence that the claims about this cleanse are true. There are also potential side effects which can be mild or serious.
This is why it’s important to consult your physician before you decide to implement any type of practice, including a colon cleanse.
If you wish to promote the health of your colon, there are several lifestyle improvements you can make. When the below-mentioned three things are done properly, you can shed a pound per day.
Let’s learn all about the best habits to adopt for a cleaner, toxin-free colon!
How to Clean the Colon & Remove 5 to 14 Pounds of Toxic Waste
- Consume fermented foods and drinks
Fermented foods provide probiotics. These live bacteria are essential for a healthy gut.
Make sure you add kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha, and yogurt to your diet. Probiotics are important for maintaining a balance in the gut bacteria that may be negatively affected by stress, poor diet, and antibiotics.
In a study published in Applied Microbiology, it was concluded that probiotics were able to lower gut inflammation and better the functioning of the intestinal barrier.
This helps prevent bad bacteria and toxins from going into the blood. A different study in Nutrition discovered that probiotic consumption helps lower constipation and improves stool consistency.
- Consume foods abundant in fiber
Fiber is crucial for the health of the colon. It promotes regular bowel movements and reduces constipation.
Fiber nourishes the good bacteria in the gut so make sure your diet is rich in fruits, whole grains, veggies, and legumes that provide fiber.
The American Heart Association notes that adults need at least 25 grams of fiber on a daily basis. However, in another study published in the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, it was concluded that the average American consumes only 16 grams of fiber daily.
Fiber can be soluble and insoluble. Both types have their own properties and advantages for the body. By knowing the differences between them, you can make better choices about your intake of fiber.
Soluble fiber dissolves in water and it becomes gel-like in the digestive tract. It slows down the absorption of carbs and promotes the regulation of the sugar in the blood.
Foods that provide this type of fiber are oats, legumes, apples, citrus fruits, etc. The insoluble fiber doesn’t dissolve in water and it goes through the digestive tract intact.
It promotes bowel movements and reduces the risk of constipation. It also contributes to a lower risk of colon cancer by boosting the good gut bacteria. Foods that provide this type of fiber are veggies, nuts and seeds, whole grains, fruit skins, etc.
- Water & electrolytes
Optimal hydration is essential for a healthy colon. Sufficient water intake helps keep the stool soft and easy to pass.
Dehydration on the other hand increases the risk of constipation. If you’re a man, consume around 125 ounces of water daily whereas women need around 91 ounces of water on a daily basis.
But, these amounts may be higher or lower due to other factors like weight, age, and activity level. In addition to water, you also need a sufficient amount of electrolytes.
These minerals carry electrical charge in the body and are pivotal for plenty of bodily functions, including hydration. The most important electrolytes to recuperate the lost fluids in the body, especially after sweating, are sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium.
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