And is the colonic or enema better for colon cleansing?
Colon cleansing involves flushing out waste from your colon (the large intestine) using fluids.
This article explains the benefits and risks of medically necessary and personal colon cleansings.
Verywell / Gary Ferster
It also compares two common methods of colon cleansing:colonicsandenemas.
Overuse of enemas can interfere with the proper function of your colon and actually make constipation worse.
So far, none of these claims are backed by scientific evidence and they’re refuted by some research.
Proponents of colon cleansing say it is beneficial for:
Are Colon Cleanses Necessary?
You also need to keep beneficial bacteria in your gastrointestinal system to aid in digestion.
Before trying any colon cleansing, discuss the treatment with your healthcare provider.
Colonics vs. Enemas
Enemas involve a one-time infusion of water into the colon.
By contrast, colonics involve multiple infusions.
Colonics
Colonic irrigation is intended for medically indicated colon cleansing (for example, before a radiological examination).
It usually lasts 45 minutes to an hour.
During the procedure, you lie face up and the hydrotherapist inserts a disposable speculum into your anus.
This forces waste out of the colon, back through the hose, and into a closed disposal system.
What comes out during a colon cleanse?
This nozzle is connected to a tube that leads to a container holding the fluid for the infusion.
Releasing the tube’s clamp initiates the flow of fluid into the rectum and stimulates peristalsis.
These methods are not recommended by health professionals.
Always check with your healthcare provider before trying one.
Risks
Colonics and enemas do carry some potential side effects, risks, and complications.
Determining whether an enema or colonic is better depends on why you are considering either one.
Enemas work on a smaller portion of the intestines (the lower colon) and are best for constipation.
Colon cleanses are best for medical procedures that require the entire intestinal tract to be clean.
Be sure to follow the directions carefully for an enema or medically approved cleanse.
A Word From Verywell
There are a variety of methods and reasons to consider a colon cleanse.
However, not all of these are medically indicated or appropriate.
You may feel a need to use the bathroom while you hold it in.
The contractions cause a wave-like motion that pushes fecal matter through your digestive tract and out your anus.
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2013 Apr 26;6:323-8. doi: 10.2147/IJGM.S44417
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National Institutes of Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus.Peristalsis.
