Colon Hydrotherapy: Could it Help You Lose Weight?

What is colon hydrotherapy?

• • Colon hydrotherapy, also called colon irrigation or colonic, by definition, is simply a complete enema. A human being has about 5 – 5 ½ feet of colon. A traditional home enema can only reach about the first 7 inches of the colon, hence, an incomplete evacuation of the colon contents. A colonic is a gentle method of both removing the contents of and rinsing the colon with warm water to expel fecal build-up and mucous plaques.

Who is a good candidate for a colonic?

• • • Those looking to remove toxins from their body, those looking to boost their immune system, those experiencing low energy levels, those struggling to lose weight, those wanting to improve digestion, those experiencing skin problems, those experiencing low moods, and those at risk for colon cancer.
    • According to the FDA, colon hydrotherapy is intended for colon cleansing when medically indicated, such as before radiological or endoscopic examinations (endoscopy and colonoscopy).
    • In general, any healthy adult can have a colonic; however, there are certain conditions that are contraindicated. Your practitioner will ask you questions about your health before performing a session to ensure it is safe for you.
    • The most common reason for seeking a colonic is constipation or fecal impaction. Unfortunately, most people do not follow a regular bowel movement schedule. A normal routine is going 1-3 times daily.
    • Another very common reason one would pursue a colonic is to remove toxins from the body. The gut is home to a wide range of microbes, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. These microbes play a critical role in digesting food and synthesizing vitamins and minerals. However, the microbes can also produce toxins that can cause a wide range of gut health complications, from digestive issues to chronic inflammation. In addition, toxins can also damage the lining of the gut, making it more permeable and allowing harmful substances to enter the bloodstream.
    • Colon hydrotherapy cannot be performed for any of the following contraindications: intestinal perforations, cancer, renal insufficiency, dialysis, cardiac condition, acute liver failure, aneurysm, diverticulitis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, internal hemorrhoids, lupus, first or third trimester pregnancy, and rectal fissures or fistulas. If there is any doubt, it is always best to check with a medical practitioner.

How is colon irrigation done?

• • Colon hydrotherapy is a holistic wellness treatment in which the large intestine (colon) is gently flushed with warm filtered water. This allows for the removal of wastes and toxins that may have built up over time and can help to improve overall health and well-being. During a colonic, a small nozzle is inserted into the rectum, and gravity fed, filtered water is slowly introduced into the colon. The warm water helps to soften and break up any waste material that may be present, and it also helps to stimulate the natural peristaltic action of the intestines. The entire process takes about 35-45 minutes, and most people report feeling more energized and lighter afterward. Colon hydrotherapy is an excellent way to support digestive health, improve skin complexion, boost energy levels, and reduce stress levels.

What is the recommended frequency for a colonic?

• • When first starting, it is recommended to do 2-3 sessions on subsequent days. Depending on the condition of the colon, it can take more than one session to cleanse the entire tract. After these initial visits, a good maintenance routine is once monthly.

Why not use stool softeners or laxatives?

• • The colon moves waste out of the body by peristaltic action, or the constriction and relaxation of the muscles of the intestine. Frequent use of stool softeners or laxatives can lead to dependence on the action of the medications to produce a bowel movement. In turn, this can cause a loss in intestinal tone and nerve response inhibiting the body’s natural peristaltic action. Laxatives also leave behind impacted waste on the colon walls.

What are the health benefits of colon hydrotherapy?

• • Some of the immediate benefits of colon hydrotherapy are relief of constipation, bloating, and gas, as well as restoring hydration. Some of the long term benefits can be increased energy, a boost in immunity, removal of toxins, improved digestion, clearer skin, less fatigue, better concentration, mood enhancement, retention of vitamins and nutrients, and possibly even lowering the risk of colon cancer. A colonic usually leaves one feeling revived and lighter.

Are there risks to colon hydrotherapy?

• • Colon hydrotherapy should always be performed by an experienced colon hydrotherapist; however, even when done so, there can be a risk for unpleasant side effects, namely, cramping, loss of electrolytes, headache, and lethargy. These are temporary and most often very quickly resolved. Colonics are extremely safe when performed by a trained expert practitioner using FDA approved equipment.

Can colon hydrotherapy aid in weight loss?

• • Colon hydrotherapy certainly has the potential to support weight loss. Constipation can be a huge factor in stalling weight loss. For most individuals, it has become almost normal to not have a bowel movement for multiple days in a row. Many people do not realize that a normal bowel movement pattern is going one to three times daily. Colon hydrotherapy is one treatment that can improve constipation and gut health. Digestive health is an ever-growing conversation in functional and integrative medicine and is critical because our gut plays a huge role in our overall health. Not only do the bacteria in our gut make up a large portion of our immune system, but it helps us to maintain a healthy weight, it keeps our mood balanced, and it ensures that we are maximizing the nutrients from the food we eat. Combined, better bowel movements and gut health can greatly enhance a weight loss journey.

Email Christie@cleanliving-health-wellness.com or call or text 414-795-7365 to schedule. Please visit www.cleanliving-health-wellness.com for more information about the practice.