Colon Cleansers

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Q:  I’ve been thinking about trying a colon cleanse, not just to lose a couple of stubborn pounds but for overall health.  It’s so hard to determine from what’s on the internet what is safe and effective and what is hype.  Have you done any research on the topic or heard what the best and safest products are from your medical professional connections? 
Thanks so much!
Kelly

A:  I have heard a lot of different people talking about colon cleanse products and the benefits they promise.  A local doctor tells me they are not worth your money.

Carilion Clinic Gastroenterologist, Dr. Marrieth Rubio says, “I don’t believe in the concept of colon cleansing.” 

She says that our bodies are made to cleanse themselves so she does not see any benefit to using the products that are sold claiming they will cleanse your body. 

Dr. Rubio adds, “Eating a healthy diet and drinking enough water will allow us to fulfill this duty with no need for additional products.”

She also pointed out that any pounds that are lost during the process are gained back as soon as you ingest food after the process is complete.  There are some people who still are determined to try these products and if you are one of them there are some precautions you need to take and possible side effects to be aware of.

Potential Side Effects:
Dehydration
Electrolyte imbalance
Stomach cramping
Flu like symptoms

Dr. Rubio says “Some of the compounds in the market have ingredients that I do not recommend to be use. They are potent laxatives that I do not use not even in patients with severe constipation because of side effects.”

Ingredients to Avoid:

- Cascara Sagrada has been associated with colon dependency (unable to have a bowel movement unless you use a laxative), severe cramps, abdominal pain, dehydration, nausea, electrolyte imbalance, severe diarrhea and even liver toxicity.

-Senna: prolonged use has been associated to a disorder called melanosis coli where your colonic internal lining turns black.  It is associated with abdominal pain, cramps, bloating, nausea, bloody diarrhea, electrolyte imbalance, skin rash and also even liver toxicity.

-Bentonite clay: if this compound is not taken with a significant amount of water it may solidify in your intestine and produce an intestinal obstruction.

It seems to me that a diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables along with several glasses of water each day would be a lot more enjoyable than any of the potential side effects above.