Colonics
0.0Colonic is a procedure wherein a colon therapist infuses water into the rectum. This process flushes out the colon, as many participants and advocates assert that colonics provide individuals with a variety of health benefits. Colonics are considered to be an “alternative” form of medicine, and the benefits are widely debated as colonics can also cause potentially harmful side effects.
What is a Colonic Procedure?
To receive a colonic procedure, individuals must first consult with a colon hydrotherapist. The therapist will insert a disposable speculum in the anus, which is attached to a plastic hose, which is connected to a colon hydrotherapy unit. As the patient lays facing up on a treatment table, warm and filtered water is slowly released into the colon. This process causes the muscles of the colon to contract, which then pushes fecal matter and bacteria out of the body through the closed hose.
What Can I Expect During a Colonic Procedure?
- During the Procedure
While the client and therapist will not smell the feces or matter being expelled from the body, the client may feel some discomfort in the abdominal region during the cleanse. To alleviate discomfort, the therapist may lightly massage the client’s abdominal area, as this will also help facilitate the process. A session will typically last 45 minutes to an hour, and clients can expect to pass residual water and stools after the session is complete. - After the Procedure
After the colonic procedure, clients may feel some minor side effects, and are encouraged to take supplements that contain beneficial colon bacteria, known as probiotics. Also, clients should refrain from eating after a colonic session.
Benefits of Colonics
- To remove excess and accumulated waste from the colon
- To prevent or treat constipation
- To improve the body’s overall health by removing toxins
- To boost weight loss success by improving the body’s digestive / processing functions
- Increase the body’s ability to absorb water and nutrients
- Rid the body of harmful colon bacteria and yeast
- Prohibit the body from absorbing stagnant toxins through the colon wall
- Benefits are received “naturally” without medicine or drugs
The Side Effects and Safety of Colonics
Individuals should consult with a primary health care provider before receiving colonic therapy. Also, individuals with the following health issues should not receive colonics:
- Diverticular disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Crohn’s disease
- Severe hemorrhoids
- Blood vessel disease
- Congestive heart failure
- Heart disease
- Severe anemia
- Abdominal hernia
- Gastrointestinal cancer
- Recent colon surgery
- Intestinal tumors
- Pregnant women
Furthermore, potential side effects of colonics include nausea and fatigue for several hours after the session, in addition to other complications such as:
- Perforation of the abdominal wall
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Heart failure caused by excessive water absorption
How Do I Find a Colon Hydrotherapist?
Individuals can seek out a certified colon hydrotherapist by verifying a therapist’s accreditation at the International Association for Colon Hydrotherapy, available at
http://www.i-act.org/