For most people, a mere mention of colon hydrotherapy can stir up discomfort in the no-go zone. The somewhat taboo nature of this subject has kept this therapy pretty well hidden. However, for some of those in the know, flushing out their innards has become as self-pampering as a mani-pedi.

In recent years, colonic hydrotherapy has grown in popularity for the purposes of revitalizing and rejuvenating one’s health, with high profilers such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Oprah Winfrey and even Madonna endorsing the practice.

The process of elimination

This procedure, also known as a colonic, is primarily the practice of introducing water through the back passage – yes, your rectum. What follows is filling the colon with intermittent bouts of water and removing waste from the large intestine. The rationale for this backwards treatment originates from an ancient Egyptian and Greek theory, known as intestinal autointoxication, which is based on the idea that rotting stools cause diseases. The intention of a colonic is to rid the body of built up waste and prevent re-absorption and further circulation of unwanted toxins in the body.

Colon hydrotherapy isn’t just a new trendy health fad. It is already common practice as preparation for medical procedures, like a colonoscopy. Yet, there is still a lot of skepticism. Colonics receive a bad wrap for lack in evidence-based health outcomes, potential risky side effects, and reports of improper usage by untrained therapists. If done without care, it could cause long-term damage to the digestive system. When performed professionally however, it can be extremely healing, relieving and restorative. But there is more to consider when it comes to colonics, and as the title insists – do not try this at home.

Why would one choose to undergo colon hydrotherapy?

It’s a process of letting go, in a quite literal sense. As it’s a deep cleanse to the large intestine, it also has been referred to as a style detoxification. Having a colonic targets conditions linked to the western diet and lifestyle such as constipation, acne, depression, some cancers and even stress, with all of these conditions having shown improvements after undergoing colonic hydrotherapy.

Research shows that the digestive system works closely with all the other systems in the body. Colonics can help to correct dysfunction of the large intestine, retrain bowel muscles, and remove plaque from intestinal walls and pockets. When the intestines are functioning well, it ensures that the body is working at its optimum. Colonic hydrotherapy is, as it suggests, also very hydrating. It rejuvenates the bowels and body, which shows through clear and glowing skin, elevated energy levels, weight loss and good moods.

What to consider

Before you consider inserting anything resembling a hose to flush your insides, here are a few important things to keep in mind before going ahead with a colonic:
Note: The only people who shouldn’t consider undergoing colonic hydrotherapy are pregnant women and those with abnormal rectal or abdominal conditions.

• Is the therapist qualified and trained to do a colonic irrigation?
  Training certifications are now standardized with accrediting associations existing in the United States, Australia, the UK and in some countries in Europe.

 

•  What’s best for comfort?
  There are two options to choose from when getting a colonic, an open and a closed system. An open system refers to a bath like seat in which you sit privately, and are able to control the water that is flowing in and out. A closed system is performed with a trained therapist assisting you, on a bed. The benefit of a closed system is that you have someone talking you through the whole procedure, and assisting you should you experience any discomfort.

 

•  Is the water purified and filtered, free from heavy metals, chlorine, bacteria, fungi and other contaminants?
  Using purified and filtered water is particularly important, as the gut lining is incredibly sensitive. When impurities come into direct contact with the gut lining, it can do more harm than good.

 

• Following up with appropriate care
  The gut is colonized with billions on billions of bacteria, all serving an essential purpose to the body’s health. This means that any type of disruption (like flushing the bacteria away) can leave the body in a vulnerable position. Restoring gut balance is a must and should be followed up correctly. Pre- and probiotics, as well as a whole restorative diet will aid in proper gut repair. 
The therapist should be able to inform you of a follow up diet, but some essentials are keeping fluid in take up, eating broths, soups and cooked foods. Try avoiding raw vegetables and wait a few days before you go back to eating red meat, sugary foods, and consuming caffeine and alcohol.

 

Opinion of a colon therapist

Every colonic is an individual experience and it may not be the best option for everybody, while not even a distant thought for some. But when done in professional care, the entire process can be extremely restorative and healing. The whole process of colonic hydrotherapy brings awareness to improving your digestion and how your overall health and lifestyle are intricately intertwined.

If the idea of water flushing out your insides isn’t appealing to you, you can quite efficiently keep your colon healthy by keeping your fluid and fiber intake high. However, if you have any concerns regarding your bowels and their proper functioning, it is always recommended to seek professional medical advice sooner rather than later.

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