Is Colon Cleansing Harmful?

In recent years, many methods, such as The Master Cleanse, have touted the importance of cleansing the colon from time to time. The product pitch states that over time humans ingest so much toxic foods that unless they detoxify their bodies, they may cause irreversible damage. However, most medical professionals express skepticism when it comes to the colon cleanse for "detoxification." Furthermore, cleansing procedures may also cause more damage than they prevent. While a colon cleanse is sometimes necessary for medical procedures, such as a colonoscopy, discuss the merits of a detoxification cleanse before proceeding with the procedure.

Bacteria

A colon cleanse aims to remove "toxins" or harmful bacteria from the body. While a cleanse or an enema will achieve this goal, the human body already works to naturally kill off bad bacteria. Furthermore, when a cleanse rids the body of bad bacteria, most of your good bacteria also leaves the body. The lack of good bacteria may lead to digestion disturbances. Also, since good bacteria attacks bad bacteria and keeps intestinal infections away, a cleanse that rids you of good bacteria will leave your digestive tract vulnerable to infection.

Dehydration

A cleanse is typically achieved through a combination of enemas and various laxatives. As all the waste leaves the body, fluid may enter the digestive tract and in the process shift the body's electrolyte balance. Electrolytes are a variety of elements that interact with one another to keep the body functioning. When electrolyte disturbance occurs, the risk of dehydration increases. Although dehydration is rarely serious, left untreated it may lead to major complications, such as delirium and even death. While a colon cleanse will probably not leave you dehydrated enough to cause death, other factors, such as a preexisting condition, may exacerbate dehydration. Dehydration in and of itself may contribute to blood clots and other conditions.

Electrolyte Elevation

Electrolyte disturbance refers both to elevated and deficient electrolyte levels. When electrolyte levels rise rapidly, you put yourself in a potentially dangerous situation. The Mayo Clinic notes that people with heart or kidney disease are especially susceptible to electrolyte elevation complications, such as heart or kidney failure. While a colon cleanse will definitely not result in an electrolyte disturbance or elevation, there is always a risk, especially if you use any laxatives that contain sodium phosphate.

Colonoscopy and Other Medically Necessary Colon Cleanses

Sometimes your doctor may require that you clean out your colon so that she may perform a certain procedure. A colonoscopy (a procedure used to screen for colon cancer and other conditions) and colon surgery both require a cleaned out colon to ensure a safe and effective procedure. Since the above risks of colon cleanses still apply even if you need to undergo one for a more vital medical reason, talk to your doctor about steps you can take to minimize complications. Depending on your medical history, your doctor may opt for a laxative that does not contain sodium phosphate. In addition, make sure to hydrate yourself in accordance with any cleansing restrictions.

Colon Cleanse Alternatives

Rather than undergo a colon cleanse for detoxification, consider dietary changes that will assist your body's natural detox processes. Avoid a diet high in saturated and trans fats. That means, cut out buttery, greasy foods and opt for whole grain, fruits and vegetables. Fiber will also help to regulate your digestive system and ensure that your body excretes what it does not need in frequent intervals. Foods rich in fiber include oatmeal and bran. If you have a difficult time getting enough fiber, consider a fiber supplement, such as Konsyl.

References

• Mayo Clinic information on colon cleansing
• "Los Angeles Times" article on colon cleansing
• National Institutes of Health for more about colon and rectal cancer information

Resources

• American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons