Colon and Detoxification Therapy

The colon is part of the digestive system. It is a long tube comprised of the large intestines, rectum, and the anus, and it can reach up to 30 feet in length. It's primary roles are to allow for the absorption of nutrients into the blood stream, and to eliminate waste. If the colon is not working properly nutrients may not be adequately absorbed and waste may linger longer than healthy before being eliminated. The danger with lingering waste products is that these substances rot, become toxic and cause health problems. These health problems can be caused by toxins entering the blood stream and by these toxins damaging the colon, e.g. colon cancer. Other illnesses that can develop include fatigue, bloating, unhealthy skin, headaches, bad breath, weight gain, and constipation. A healthy colon can go a long way into proper health maintenance. The best way to maintain a healthy colon is to assure regular bowel movements, at least 1-2 per day. This can be done by the regular consumption of fiber (35 grams/day), found in foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables (with the skin), nuts, and grains. There are drugs and medications that can assist in the cleansing of the colon, but, most of the time these are extreme and can sometimes cause more harm then good.

Besides toxins building up in the colon they can also accumulate throughout the body. This occurs because we are all exposed to thousands of various chemicals, daily. Regardless of how hard one tries these chemicals can not be avoided. They are in our water, our food, our soaps, lotions, in our utensils, etc. Most of us don't think of this until, perhaps, illness strikes. Detoxification can be achieved by a number of methods:

• Water fasting: drinking fresh water only for 2-3 days.
• Fruit fasting: eating only fresh fruit for 2-3 days
• Fruit juice fasting: consuming and preparing fresh juice, with a juice maker, for 2-3 days
• Hyperthermia session: induced sweating via sauna, steam room, steam bath, etc. Use caution, limit exposure to heat, so as to not cause a heat illness

For any detox methods which require altering your diet keep in mind that you may feel week and tired, and you should drink plenty of water. If you have any medical conditions, e.g. diabetes, or you are pregnant, you should consult your physician first. Also, you should avoid physical exertion during this time.