Your large intestine, or colon, is part of the gastrointestinal tract, and is vital in removing waste and toxins from your body. However, toxin overload and poor colon function can cause toxins to build up in the colon, which inhibits weight loss and causes other health complications such as constipation, according to Frances Taylor and Jacqueline Krohn, authors of “Natural Detoxification.” While the debate about the value and safety of colon cleanse for weight loss and general health continues, advocates continue to extol its benefits.

According to Brenda Watson, author of “The Detox Strategy,” waste that sits in the colon begins to putrefy and increases the amount of toxins in your body. Some people may be carrying around several pounds of waste in their colon, which contributes to potbellies, and may play a role in conditions such as allergies, acne and fibromyalgia, notes Watson. Natural colon cleanses purge waste and toxins from your body and may promote weight loss. Dieters are still awaiting more scientific research on these claims, but the ample anecdotal evidence on the benefit of colon cleansing is hard to ignore.

Psyllium Fiber
This fiber derived from psyllium seed husk is an effective laxative, according to “Natural Detoxification.” As psyllium fiber passes through the digestive tract, it absorbs water and expands. It fills the intestines and helps to soften stools, thereby making excretion of waste and toxins easier.

Natural Enemas
An enema is one of the oldest colon cleanse methods. It may contain a substance such as warm filtered water, coffee, herbal tea or wheat-grass juice, according to “Natural Detoxification.” Some enema users also vary the ingredients to treat specific conditions. For instance, adding 1/2 tsp of cayenne may stimulate the liver, kidneys and spleen, states Krohn and Taylor. However, an enema is not for everyone. For example, you should not do a coffee enema if you have conditions such as hemorrhoids or anal or rectal fissures.

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