Unless you’ve been living in a cave for the past several years, you’ve undoubtedly seen commercials on TV, special reports, etc. regarding colon cleansing products. Its recent rise in popularity makes colon cleansing appear to many to be a new phenomenon – like it’s some new scientific breakthrough that we’ve just discovered in the last two years. The fact is, however, that the practice goes back almost to the beginning of recorded time.
If the concept is that old, why hasn’t just recently become all the rage? It’s hard to know for sure, but this would not be the first concept to be popular, die out, and become popular again. Many fads throughout history have followed the same pattern. In the case of colon cleanse products, it may very well be that somebody found a new twist, new ingredient, or new piece of research that allowed them to spark a resurgence in popularity.
The fact is that the benefits of colon cleansing were debunked as myth many years ago. The concept has been tested, over and over again, and shown to be not only lacking in benefit, but potentially dangerous as well. This is especially true when considering that many people find recipes to create their own form of homemade colon cleanse.
For as long as scientists have had the ability to thoroughly study human anatomy, they have known that the colon actually needs the different bacteria that are present in the colon. Trying to somehow get rid of that colon bacteria can cause fairly severe digestive tract issues. Obsessive attempts to purify the colon can lead to sickness, and in some cases even death.
Now, I am not one to say the colon health is not important. It definitely is. Colon cancer is a real threat, as are other intestinal diseases. Colon cleansing, however, is not the answer. If you are concerned with colon health, your best bet is to go with what we know works: eat a healthy diet, rich with fruits and vegetables, and get regular exercise. Vegetables, especially green, leafy vegetables are naturally high in dietary fiber. Exercise helps to stimulate the bowel. The combination of a healthy diet and regular exercise will keep your intestinal track operating efficiently, and is really all you need to promote and maintain good colon health.