What is a Colon & Lymphatic Cleanse?
This is the second article of our 4 week article series covering the topic of Detoxification. To read the previous article, please click here. At the end of this series, we will be launching a 6 week program detailing all steps you can follow to complete a full body detoxification.
When considering a cleanse it is important to understand all the different ways our body has to eliminate any waste products and toxins to efficiently leave the body. We have sweat glands all over the body, respiratory passages (nose and mouth), faeces which exit via the colon and urine. The colon however, is one of the major exit routes and therefore a key area to focus on to create a healthy body.
Why is a healthy colon so vital?
The colon absorbs vitamins, electrolytes, nutrients & water. When these essential ingredients are being properly absorbed we feel good. The colon also plays host to trillions of microorganisms. There are more microorganisms in the colon than contained in the heart, brain, skin & the rest of the body cells combined. Therefore a proper balance of healthy bacteria must be maintained inside the colon to avoid being plagued with digestive ailments. A healthy bowel system should mean you are passing stools twice a day and with good consistency.
Things like partially digested meats, which can occur when our digestive process is not optimal, can build up inside the colon wall and cause blockage. Once it becomes blocked other small food particles begin to line the colon resulting in unfavourable bacterial overgrowth which can cause damage to the colon.
When the colon is not working well, the result can be a range of problems from constipation and gas, to candida and other chronic health issues. Research shows that undigested meats and foods can cause mucus build up in the colon which results in a build-up of toxins which can then re-enter the circulation. Common symptoms of a blocked colon include, low energy, headaches & fatigue.
When cleansing the colon, the goal is to eliminate large quantities of stagnant toxic waste encrusted in the colon wall. By doing so, we can enhance the vitality of the body. The outcomes of a colon cleanse include: improving your mental state, losing weight & reducing the risk of colon cancer.
Which techniques help cleanse the colon?
The simplest form of a gentle colon cleanse is the use of filtered water to cleanse tissue throughout the colon, called “colon lavage". This technique has been practised since as early as 1500 B.C. in ancient Egypt, and it consists of a large intake of water to assist with flushing the colon.
You may have heard of this as a colonic or colonic irrigation. This is a procedure that uses water to cleanse the colon or large intestine. Due to the risk of infection, colonic lavage is declared a 'skin penetration procedure', which means that the premises and procedures must comply with the Public Health Regulation, 2012. This requires the assistance of a professional.
Some alternative and home friendly approaches include a magnesium or salt water flush, which can involve taking laxatives or herbal supplements. Details of how exactly to use some of these techniques will be covered in the 6 week program.
What is the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs that help rid the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials. The primary function of the lymphatic system is to transport lymph, a fluid containing infection-fighting white blood cells, throughout the body. White blood cells, called lymphocytes fight infection, viruses and bacteria. They also destroy damaged or abnormal cells.
It primarily consists of lymphatic vessels, which are similar to the circulatory system's veins and capillaries. The vessels are connected to lymph nodes, where the lymph is filtered. The tonsils, adenoids, spleen and thymus are all part of the lymphatic system.
Things like eating too much dairy or other foods that cause inflammation such as soy, wheat, pasta, alcohol, all impact the lymphatic system.
When the lymphatic system is not working well, you may experience a blocked sinus or experience fluid retention, bloating, itchy or dry skin, soreness or stiffness in the morning.
Which techniques help cleanse the lymphatic system?
One of the most effective ways to assist in flushing your lymph fluid is 20 minutes of daily movement. The best type of exercise whilst cleansing the body is Rebounding (Mini Trampoline) as it increases lymph flow, oxygenates the blood and strengthens the immune system. If you don’t have a mini trampoline try skipping. Power Walking especially first thing in the morning is a great exercise tool to use here also.
Want to learn more about detoxification?
During the next 3 weeks, we will be sharing articles covering liver and kidney cleanses and how to eliminate harmful organisms that can be at the root cause of disease as well as more information on Instagram and Facebook about Lymphatic and Colon cleanse practices. In our next article we will be reviewing other major organs involved in systemic detoxification the liver and kidneys.
At the end of this series, remember we will launch a downloadable free 6 week program to help you get back to better health for 2018. To ensure you don't miss out, please sign up for our newsletter below.
If you know someone who suffers with gut health issues, has symptoms such as brain fog, low energy or irregular bowel movements please share this article with them and encourage them to follow the upcoming program.
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