Are Colonics Helpful or Harmful?

Summary: Colonics are a popular trend where people flush up to 16 gallons of water into their large intestine. Many people do this hoping to "detox" their bodies, clear up their skin, or fix stomach issues like bloating. However, doctors warn that this idea actually comes from a 19th-century theory that was proven wrong in the 1930s.

Instead of helping, colonics can be very dangerous. Flushing out your colon can wash away the good bacteria your body needs to digest food. It can also cause severe dehydration and wash away important minerals, which can lead to heart problems or seizures. In the worst cases, the water pressure can tear the bowel, causing life-threatening infections. If you want a healthy colon, doctors say you should skip the hose and just drink plenty of water, eat more fiber, and exercise regularly.

For more details, see Verywell Health at verywellhealth.com/what-is-a-colonic-89032 (opens in new tab)

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