Here's what the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN says about it.
Question
Colon cleansing: Is it helpful or harmful?
I've read many negative things about colon cleansing, but I don't believe any of them. Colon cleansing generally sounds like a good way to clear toxins from your body. What do you think?
Answer
from Michael Picco, M.D.
Proponents of colon cleansing believe that toxins from your gastrointestinal tract can cause a variety of health problems, such as arthritis, allergies and asthma. They say that colon cleansing — also called colonic irrigation — removes these toxins, thus promoting healthy intestinal bacteria, boosting your energy and enhancing your immune system.
While there is little scientific evidence to support or refute the benefits of colon cleansing, critics say it's generally unnecessary and at times may even be harmful. Although doctors prescribe colon cleansing as preparation for medical procedures such as colonoscopy, most don't recommend it for detoxification. Their reasoning is simple: The digestive system and bowel naturally eliminate waste material and bacteria — your body doesn't need enemas or special diets or pills to do this.
One concern with colon cleansing is that it can increase your risk of dehydration. A potentially more serious concern is that certain laxatives used in colon cleansing, such as those with sodium phosphate, can cause a rise in your electrolytes, which can be dangerous if you have kidney disease or heart disease.
If you choose to do colon cleansing, be sure to take these simple precautions:
Check with your conventional medical providers first, especially if you take any medications or have any health problems.
Make sure your colon-cleansing practitioner uses disposable equipment that hasn't been previously used.
Get a list of specific herbal ingredients and amounts in any colon-cleansing products you use — some herbal supplements can cause health problems.
Beware of broad or inflated claims that colon cleansing will cure an illness or improve your health.
Stay well hydrated by drinking lots of fluids while undergoing colon cleansing to prevent dehydration.
If you are considering colon cleansing because of constipation, consider trying these steps first to relieve constipation:
Drink plenty of fluids, including water
Eat a diet rich in fiber
Get regular exercise
