
A colonic is a procedure where water is infused into the colon to flush out all of the toxins and collected plaque. Think of it like a teeth cleansing for your colon, save for the fact that you'll be a little more exposed.
Full Answer
What is a colonic?
A colonic is the infusion of water or other liquids into the rectum by a colon therapist to cleanse and flush out the colon. It is also called colonic hydrotherapy or colon irrigation.
Does it feel weird to have a colonic?
It definitely feels a little weird. Before I start, let me just get this out of the way: It's not as bad as you think. A colonic is a procedure where water is infused into the colon to flush out all of the toxins and collected plaque. Think of it like a teeth cleansing for your colon, save for the fact that you'll be a little more exposed.
What is a colonic flush?
Colonics are also called colon hydrotherapy (hydrocolonics), colonic irrigation or high enemas, and are used to cleanse the colon. Proponents of colonic treatments say that a colon flush pulls out built-up toxins and it helps to detox your body to promote weight loss and better health. Advertisement.
How do you cleanse your colon?
One of the most popular ways of cleansing your colon is by having a colonic (also called colon hydrotherapy). But you should also be aware that there are other ways for cleansing you colon. For example: you can consume certain foods or certain herbal infusions to cleanse your colon and your body.

Does it hurt to get a colonic?
Does it hurt? Most people report their colonic hydrotherapy sessions as both relaxing and refreshing, however if you have an accumulation of hardened matter in the colon you may experience some cramping as the colon contracts to expel it. This pain is generally mild, and passes quickly.
How much poop comes out in a colonic?
Domer says 15-20 gallons of water flush through the five feet of colon during a colonic, and the process evacuates, in some cases, the equivalent of 15-16 bowel movements. Basically, the infusion of water tricks the body into thinking it has to poop, and so it does.
What can I expect from a colonic?
A small tube, called a speculum, is gently inserted into the rectum which allows it to introduce warm filtered water into the colon. As the water enters the colon, it causes a feeling of fullness for a short amount of time, followed by a relaxing feeling as the colon is emptied.
How long does a colonic take?
Colonic irrigation involves inserting the nozzle of a device into the rectum to send water into the colon. A person can control the pressure and temperature of the water, and the entire procedure usually takes around 45 minutes.
Will I lose weight after a colonic?
Colonic Irrigation & Weight Loss The short answer to this question is - yes, colonic irrigation (also known as colon hydrotherapy) can help you lose weight.
Will colonic help lose weight?
Helps with weight loss Colon hydrotherapy can assist with weight loss because it flushes unwanted material from the intestines. If you want long-term loss, a cleanse allows you to start fresh and eat higher-quality food, such as high-fiber items that fill you up and go through the digestive system quicker.
How do I prepare for a colonic?
Prior to a colonic irrigation session, you should refrain from eating at least two hours before your scheduled appointment. For the best results, prepare a diet of vegetables and grains, drink plenty of water, and avoid red meats. Check out some of our deliciously healthy recipes if you need some inspiration!
What can you not do after a colonic?
Avoid eating raw vegetables 4-6 hours after a colonic. Avoid heavy meat consumption (beef and pork) for 8 to 12 hours. Chicken and fish is best. Eat low mucoid-forming foods.
How many colonic treatments are needed?
Your personal objectives will determine how many colonics you wish to have. To begin with, it is generally recommended to have 3-4 sessions within a 10-14 day period to maximise results in cleaning the length of the colon and getting that great reset.
How do I know I need a colonic?
Here are the top 6 signs the body needs to cleanse:You have gained weight and it's not going away. ... You feel generally tired or fatigued. ... You don't have a full night's sleep. ... You have minor but constant shifts towards imbalance. ... Your bowel movements aren't right. ... You don't feel good emotionally.
What do I eat after a colonic?
What kind of diet should I follow immediately after a Colon Hydrotherapy session?Drink plenty of liquids (purified water, juices, herb teas and electrolyte liquids).Eat a healthy vegetable soup within the next couple of hours;Avoid eating raw vegetables straight after the treatment.More items...
Does colonic help with bloating?
Colonic irrigation is one of the safest and most effective ways to treat bloating and aid with the removal of gas producing bacteria.
How much poop is in your body on average?
Personal bowel habits notwithstanding, on average, both men and women move their bowels about once per day and produce a daily average of 14 to 17 ounces (400 to 500 grams) of feces, Barrett said.
Are your bowels ever completely empty?
Your Colon Is Never Empty However, since stool is made up in large part of bacteria, fecal matter is continuously being formed.
How long does it take to empty your colon?
It takes about 36 hours for food to move through the entire colon. All in all, the whole process — from the time you swallow food to the time it leaves your body as feces — takes about two to five days, depending on the individual.
Will a colonic help with impacted stool?
A series of colon-hydrotherapy treatments can clean out and remove impacted material from the whole colon which is 5 ft long. Additionally, colon hydrotherapy promotes peristalsis and helps the colon muscles regain tone therefore assisting the return of regular bowel movements.
What is a colonic?
A colonic is a procedure where water is infused into the colon to flush out all of the toxins and collected plaque. Think of it like a teeth cleansing for your colon, save for the fact that you'll be a little more exposed. I had my first colonic last week, after years of researching the process and countless Yelp searches for ...
What to ask when using a colonic?
1. Be sure to ask if all of the supplies used during your colonic are disposal and sanitary — of all the services out there, you really wouldn't want any of these supplies to have been used by somebody else beforehand, would you?
How to get rid of a colon with a magic wand?
During this process I sat on a comfy massage table coated with a soft sheet and pillow. You start by lying down on your stomach, as though you were getting a massage, while the heated wand glides across your back. Eventually, you flip over so that your stomach can be examined by the "magic wand" as well. This process not only relaxes your colon but also alerts Birgit is there's a specific area that she should to work on.
How long before colonic surgery should I eat?
4. Don't eat gassy foods like broccoli, beans, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and similar picks for 24 hours before your colonic. 5. Skip the booze (yes, even if you want to calm your nerves) for 24 hours before your appointment.
Does Birgit's colonic tube hurt?
(More on that in the next section!) When my colonic was finished, the tube was quickly removed, but don't worry — it doesn't hurt. I was then brought to the bathroom to expel any excess water. Hey, everyone poops.
Does a colonic get rid of accumulated stool?
To be honest, I didn't feel that much different in the following days. As Dr. Sam says, "The thought is that a colonic will get rid of accumulated stool and waste in your colon. However, your colon is designed to do this by you having bowel movements." Would I ever do it again? Well, Birgit says you need to do a series of colonics to really see the results, so the verdict is still out.
Why do people get colonics?
People who get colonics typically say they do it for the following reasons: 1 1 To remove accumulated waste from the colon 2 To help prevent constipation 3 To improve the overall health
What are the side effects of colonics?
Side effects of colonics may include nausea and fatigue after the session, which can last for several hours. Complications may include bowel perforation, excessive fluid absorption, electrolyte imbalance, heart failure, and serious infection. 3
What is the name of the infusion of water into the rectum by a colon therapist?
Meredith Bull, ND. Updated on January 05, 2021. A colonic is the infusion of water or other liquids into the rectum by a colon therapist to cleanse and flush out the colon. It is also called colonic hydrotherapy or colon irrigation. Colonics and enemas are similar, but there are some key differences between a colonic and an enema.
Why did Kellogg's colonics become less popular?
Kellogg frequently lectured on colon therapy and recommended colonics for many conditions, such as depression and arthritis. As laxatives grew in popularity , colonics became less popular. Also, the lack of published evidence on the benefits of colonics contributed to its decline.
Why is colonics considered a form of alternative medicine?
To help prevent constipation. To improve the overall health. Colonics are always considered a form of alternative medicine. Due to lack of evidence, colonics are not known to improve health and wellness by most conventional medical professionals.
How long does a colon therapist session last?
A typical session lasts 45 minutes to one hour.
What causes a colon to be absorbed into the bloodstream?
Preventing water and nutrient absorption. Lead to constipation. Allow harmful colon bacteria and yeast to grow. Cause stagnant toxins to be absorbed into the bloodstream through the colon wall (called autointoxication) Lack of fiber, excess sugar, and a diet high in red meat are believed to contribute to the problem.
Why are colonics so mysterious?
And colonics specifically ignite people's curiosity and fear thanks to the fact that the basic elements of the procedure, and its attendant efficacy, are somewhat mysterious to most people, thanks to the fact that it's not something that most people think of as a form of physical maintenance or self-care, like massages or manicures .
What body part is affected by colonics?
Before telling you about my experience, though, I should break down a few of the basics about colonics, the first of which is definitely that, no matter how much we all might associate colonics with butts, the real body part that's affected by the treatment is actually the gut. It is, of course, the gut which is being cleansed by a colonic, with the colon being part of our digestive system; the last stop on our waste's way out of our body. As Dr. Alejandro Junger explained in an interview with GOOP:
How long has colonic hydrotherapy been around?
Colonic therapy has been used for thousands of years (there's written records of its use in ancient Egypt, for example), but gained modern popularity about 100 years ago, with many Western medical doctors through the 1920s and '30s advocating its use and having colon hydrotherapy machines in their offices and hospitals, which were gradually replaced by things like enemas and laxatives. In more recent years, colonic hydrotherapy has staged a comeback, with many holistic doctors and centers, like WeCare Spa in California, offering the procedure as a way of aiding in the colon's natural elimination of waste, without negatively affecting the colon's supply of beneficial bacteria and intestinal flora.
Which part of the body is being cleansed by a colonic?
It is, of course, the gut which is being cleansed by a colonic, with the colon being part of our digestive system; the last stop on our waste's way out of our body. As Dr. Alejandro Junger explained in an interview with GOOP:
Can colonics help with constipation?
The benefits of a colonic can vary from person to person, and it is always strongly advised—particularly if a person has a chronic gastrointestinal problem like Irritable Bowel Syndrome or Crohn's Disease—to check with a medical professional first, but some of the benefits can include relief when it comes to bloating and constipation, an increase in energy, and notably clearer skin. Colonics are usually recommended when someone is on a cleanse and isn't currently in the midst of consuming high levels of fat, alcohol, or sugar; if you are consuming those things, you can still get a colonic, it just might not be as effective—or comfortable.
Can you get a colonic if you are on a cleanse?
Colonics are usually recommended when someone is on a cleanse and isn't currently in the midst of consuming high levels of fat, alcohol, or sugar; if you are consuming those things, you can still get a colonic, it just might not be as effective—or comfortable.
Is the colon the second brain?
The colon isn't just home to waste, of course, it's also where trillions of healthy intestinal bacteria flourish (or should flourish if you have a healthy colon), and the colon's health is an essential aspect of our overall physical and mental well-being. Or, as colon therapist Rachel Bastow told me during my colonic, "The gut is the second brain.".
How to cleanse your colon?
One of the most popular ways of cleansing your colon is by having a colonic (also called colon hydrotherapy). But you should also be aware that there are other ways for cleansing you colon. For example: you can consume certain foods or certain herbal infusions to cleanse your colon and your body.
What is colonic irrigation?
Colonics are also called colon hydrotherapy (hydrocolonics), colonic irrigation or high enemas, and are used to cleanse the colon. Proponents of colonic treatments say that a colon flush pulls out built-up toxins and it helps to detox your body to promote weight loss and better health. Colonics have been advocated by many famous people ...
Why do colonic therapists massage the abdomen?
Sometimes colonic therapists massage the abdomen to help release the waste and get it moving quicker. Some colonics may use herbs and other natural additives to help pass the waste more effectively. The colon hydrotherapy process is odor-free and the procedure is done in complete privacy.
Why is colon cleansing important?
The theory behind colon cleansing is that a buildup of waste in the colon can produce toxins, which enter the bloodstream causing health problems . Therefore, removing these toxins through colonic procedures is said to help a person feel better and improve overall health.
What is the best way to clean out the colon?
The Pros and Cons of Colonic Hydrotherapy. A Colonic is a treatment for cleaning out leftover waste from the colon by using water or other liquids to flush out the waste from the colon. Colonics are also called colon hydrotherapy (hydrocolonics), colonic irrigation or high enemas, and are used to cleanse the colon.
How long does a colon cleanse last?
Colon irrigation, on the other hand, is always carried out by a health professional and the procedure will usually last from 45 minutes to an hour.
How does a colonic irrigation system work?
A center specializing in colonic irrigation says that during a colonic procedure, a tube is inserted into the rectum and filtered, sterilized water is flushed through a small tube. Waste matter along with the water gets released the same way as it does in a bowel movement, just this time it goes out through a tube. 1.
Why is colon cleansing important?
They believe that colon cleansing improves health by removing toxins, boosting your energy and enhancing your immune system.
How much water is used in a colon cleanse?
During a colon cleanse, large amounts of water — sometimes up to 16 gallons (about 60 liters) — and possibly other substances, such as herbs or coffee, are flushed through the colon. This is done using a tube that's inserted into the rectum.
What is a tear in the rectum?
A tear in the rectum (perforation) Infection. A change in your electrolyte balance, which can be dangerous if you have kidney or heart disease or other health problems. If you choose to try colon cleansing, take these precautions:
Is coffee enemas bad for your colon?
And colon cleansing can sometimes be harmful. In fact, coffee enemas sometimes used in colon cleansing have been linked to several deaths. Colon cleansing can also cause less serious side effects, such as cramping, bloating, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Other potential concerns with colon cleansing include: Dehydration.
Is it necessary to cleanse your colon?
But colon cleansing — also called a colonic or a colonic irrigation — for such purposes isn't necessary . That's because your digestive system and bowel already eliminate waste material and bacteria from your body.
Is colon cleansing necessary?
But colon cleansing — also called a colonic or a colonic irrigation — for such purposes isn't necessary.

The Risks
The Prep
- You should know that there's some prep work involved. Here's what the experts recommend: 1. Be sure to ask if all of the supplies used during your colonic are disposal and sanitary — of all the services out there, you really wouldn't want any of these supplies to have been used by somebody else beforehand, would you? 2. Make sure your hydrotherapis...
The Infrared Analysis
- After walking into the Core Club and being promptly ushered to the locker room, I changed into a cozy white terrycloth robe. Then, I was brought into a dimly lit room to meet Birgit. In her endearing German accent, Birgit welcomed me and showed me to where things were about to go down. I received a packet of brochures — my reading homework — as Birgit explained the steps …
The Colonic
- Now for the main attraction: the 45-minute colonic (according to Birgit anything shorter wouldn't be effective). First, your robe is turned to the front so your booty is accessible. Before we got started, Birgit assured me that "the speculum that will be inserted is very small and they say it's the same one that is used for teenagers." She asked me to turn onto my side and bend my left le…
The Aftermath
- As I learned, you'll have to go to the bathroom after your colonic and may go several times over the next few hours, so I wouldn't make any fab plans after your treatment — and I recommend staying close to a toilet. Birgit advises resting and consuming light meals, like soup or a salad. Don't drink alcohol right after, as Birgit warns that you'll absorb alcohol faster and will become in…