Colon cleansing also known as colon irrigation or colon hydrotherapy is normally done with the belief that it will aid in removing excess waste and toxins, thought to have accumulated over time, from the colon. This waste in the colon is thought to produce toxins that enter one’s blood and purportedly result in ill health ranging from fatigue, digestive disorders, unwanted weight gain and chronic diseases like some types of cancer.

Colon cleansing gained popularity in the late 1800s and early 1900s based on the autointoxication theory which claims intestinal waste can poison the body and contribute to diseases.  However, with time, this theory was disputed as it lacks adequate scientific evidence to support its claims. In 1919 the practice was condemned by the American Medical Association and termed useless and dangerous.

Although the practice has limited clinical evidence, it has seen resurgence as a health promotion practice.

Colon cleansing can be done in two ways; by use of laxatives like enema or herbal drinks that induce diarrhea to help the colon expel its contents; or through irrigation or hydrotherapy. Hydrotherapy is conducted by a medic and involves flushing out waste from the colon using large amounts of water through a tube inserted into the colon.

It is important to note the human body is smart and well equipped with its own mechanism to eliminate waste and toxins. The liver, kidney, skin, urinary system, and gastrointestinal tract are continuously helping cleanse the body.

The cells that form the lining of the intestines are shed every three days making it impossible for stool to stick on to the walls. By the time food gets into the colon, most of the nutrients have already been absorbed and what is left is mostly waste, water and a few nutrients. The body is smart enough to absorb only what is beneficial.

Despite its many alleged health benefits, colon cleansing can cause a number of adverse effects ranging from cramping, abdominal pains, bloating and nausea to severe effects like puncturing a hole in the colon, electrolyte imbalance, liver toxicity and renal failure. Some of these side effects can be fatal.

Colon cleansing is sometimes necessary especially during medical procedures like colonoscopy, but only under medical supervision.

Even though there are not many clinical studies in humans to prove the benefits of this practice, some people with digestive system disorders report relief after colon cleansing prescribed in preparation for medical procedures like colonoscopy.