Are colon cleanses safe?
Ask the doctor
Q. For years, I’ve been hearing about colon cleanses and how they can “detoxify” us, but I’m skeptical. Are there any benefits?
A. You’re right to give colon cleanses the side eye, no matter who’s touting them. Celebrities and social media influencers try to convince us these measures — which include using supplements or colon hydrotherapy — boast multiple benefits. Purportedly, they help remove toxins, boost weight loss and immune function, and increase energy levels.
But the colon already removes toxins on its own, so no extra help is required. And none of the supplements (such as laxatives, enemas, or herbal teas) or colonics (procedures that flush the colon with fluid) hawked for this purpose are FDA-approved. Colon cleanses also pose risks such as diarrhea, cramping, nausea and vomiting, dehydration, irregular bowel activity, anal irritation, and a bowel tear or infection from colonics. People with conditions such as diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, heart or kidney disease, or prior colon surgeries face additional risks.
The best ways to keep your colon humming and naturally detoxifying your body include eating plenty of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, staying active, controlling your weight, limiting alcohol, and avoiding smoking.
Image: © Carol Yepes/Getty Images
About the Author
Toni Golen, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Women's Health Watch; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing; Contributor
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