Safe Detox Programs for the Colon
The colon (also known the bowel) exists to help remove the unwanted toxins from our bodies. Although many experts say the human body does a sufficient job of removing these toxins, others have found that detoxing the colon can significantly improve their health and wellness. Although many products help you cleanse your system, here are some simple, safe, natural ways to detoxify your colon.
Other People Are Reading
-
Start by Fasting
-
Fasting is one of the oldest and best-known methods of detoxification. According to Joel Fuhrman, M.D., in his book "Fasting and Eating For Health" (see "Why Fasting?" article in Resources below), he says "The fast does not merely detoxify; it also breaks down superfluous tissue---fat, abnormal cells, atheromatous plaque and tumors---and releases diseased tissues and their cellular products into the circulation for elimination. Toxic or unwanted materials circulate in our bloodstream and lymphatic tissues and are deposited in and released from our fat stores and other tissues. An important element of fasting detoxification is mobilizing the toxins from their storage areas."
Proper Drinking During a Detox
-
Drinking plenty of water and juice is effective in more ways than one when attempting a cleanse. The most obvious is their helpfulness in carrying away unwanted toxins that were mobilized during the fasting process and removing them from your body. They are also important in preventing dehydration during this process. Also, many juices contain sugars that can assist in speeding up your bowel movements. Juices can also be a good natural source of vitamins and minerals that your body needs to stay healthy and keep its energy during the cleansing process.
-
Raw Fruits and Vegetables
-
Because processed and cooked foods tend to create or add to the toxins in our colon, a cleanse consisting of mostly raw fruits and vegetables is your best bet for cleaning your system. Raw fruits and vegetables are high in fiber, which is possibly the safest way to remove unwanted toxins from your digestive tract. Also, they contain the vitamins, minerals, amino acids and enzymes necessary for a healthy body so you won't feel weak or unwell as you're cleansing yourself.
Metamucil Supplements to Detox
-
Metamucil is one of the safest and most popular cleansing products on the market. It is a brand-name line of products that contains psyllium fiber, giving it the ability to help cleanse the bowels and promote regularity in bowel movements. When psyllium is mixed with water, it forms a gel that has a sponge-like effect on the colon walls, removing any toxins that are impeding the absorption of vital nutrients and poorly affecting your health.
There are many Metamucil products you can use to assist you in your detox efforts. Note that "Metamucil Clear and Natural" doesn't contain psyllium fiber and may not have the same effects. Follow the dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer for a safe and effective cleanse of your body. It is recommended when taking psyllium supplements to drink one or two glasses of water with each dose.
Bentonite Supplements to Detox
-
Taking bentonite supplements is a safe and popular way to assist in a healthy colon cleanse. Bentonite is a type of highly mineralized clay taken from volcanic ash that forms into a gel when mixed with water. While in the colon it binds toxic substances to it, which it can then transport out of the bowel. After cleansing the bowel and removing the unwanted toxins, it leaves behind colon walls more prepared to absorb vitamins and minerals to create a healthier body.
Bentonite clay is usually sold as a thick, tasteless, light-gray gel, but can also come in powder or capsule form.
There are many different manufacturers of bentonite supplements so it is best to follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe and proper usage.
According to one report, it is optimal to take the clay when your stomach is empty. It can also be taken at least one hour before or after a meal or right before going to sleep at night.
It is recommended to begin by taking 1 Tbsp each day by mixing it with a small glass of juice. Continue this dosage for one week, then slowly increase the dosage amount. It is not recommended to ingest more than 4 Tbsp per day, taken in divided doses.
Be sure to drink at least eight glasses of water each day while doing this to prevent constipation.
-
