Have you ever had a colonic treatment?
You'll also hear it called "colon hydrotherapy" or "colon irrigation," which might sound like the nether regions are about to become a construction site. Fear not! As you'll see in the latest episode of The Chopra Well's "30 Days of Intent," Natalie and Iman survive this interesting alternative therapy and leave feeling pretty great. So what's colon therapy all about?
Colon hydrotherapy isn't a fad of new age alternative health. The treatment was actually developed in the early 20th century, and use of enemas (similar to colonics) and beliefs surrounding colon impurity have been around since ancient Egypt. Proponents of colon therapy believe that our bodies don't fully dispose of waste materials and toxins, which can accumulate and lead to a host of medical problems. This is called "auto-intoxication," which sounds terrifying but as of yet has not been validated by mainstream medicine.
Nonetheless, fans and practitioners of colon therapy say there are many evidenced benefits to the treatment that modern medicine will undoubtedly verify through further research. Constipation is one condition that colonic treatments have been shown to help alleviate, but water and fiber-rich foods, like beans, oatmeal, raspberries, and broccoli, are easy and effective remedies, as well.
That said, Natalie and Iman report feeling relaxed and calm after their treatments, and we've heard others say they feel lighter and refreshed after colon cleansing. If you're going to try it, take precautions against the various risks associated with colonics and do everything to make sure you get the most out of the experience.
1. Read up on colon therapy and know the risks. Anything from mild discomfort in the abdomen to heart failure due to electrolyte imbalance can result as a side effect. Check with your regular health provider beforehand to make sure it's a safe option for you.
2. Find a reputable clinic that uses disposable equipment to avoid infection. Need we say more?
3. Drink lots of water prior to and after your treatment. Colon therapy can be dehydrating, so you'll want to counteract that by getting enough fluids into your system.
4. Be realistic about the potential outcomes of the therapy. You may not cure yourself of arthritis or lose 50 pounds, but you can still feel rejuvenated and cleansed after the procedure.
5. Be proactive about living a colon-healthy life, with or without the help of colonics. This means drinking plenty of water, eating enough fiber-rich food, and staying active.
Watch Natalie and Iman get their colonic treatments on "30 Days of Intent," and let us know what you think! If you've ever experienced the procedure, yourself, tell us how it went! Did you notice any benefits? Side effects?
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