Colonic Or Laxatives: Which Is The Better Cleanse?

Constipation is a common issue that many people face, and there are a variety of treatments available to help alleviate it. Two of the most well-known treatments are colonics, also known as colon hydrotherapy or colonic irrigation, and laxatives. While both aim to provide relief from constipation, there are several key differences between them in terms of their effects, safety, and suitability for different individuals. This article will explore these differences and help you understand which option may be more suitable for your needs.

Colonic irrigation treats a broader range of colon conditions

Colonic irrigation is also a more holistic treatment option, as it does not interfere with the whole digestive system, unlike laxatives. The water used in colonic irrigation is directed only at the bowel/colon, whereas laxatives, especially those taken orally, can cause interference with the entire digestive system. This may induce further health issues.

Colonic irrigation is also not associated with dependency, unlike laxatives, which can cause the body to become dependent on them for passing stools. Overuse of laxatives can lead to the body getting used to only passing faeces when stimulated by a laxative.

Colonic irrigation only uses clean water without any additives, whereas laxatives are medicinal products that contain chemicals. The chemicals in laxatives can kill beneficial bacteria in the bowel, as well as harmful bacteria.

While colonic irrigation may be a more comprehensive treatment option, it is important to note that there is limited scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness. Some sources even state that there is evidence that colonic irrigation can be harmful to health.

Laxatives are medicinal products with chemicals

Laxatives are medicinal products that contain chemicals. They are designed to relieve constipation and speed up digestion. They can be purchased over the counter in the form of pills, liquids, powders, and suppositories.

There are four main types of laxatives: stimulant, bulk-forming, stool softener, and osmotic. Stimulant laxatives speed up bowel movements by encouraging the muscles along the digestive tract to work faster. Bulk-forming laxatives increase the bulk of stools by making them more liquid, which helps ease the passing of stools through the digestive tract. Stool softener laxatives work by adding water to the faeces, making them easier to pass. Osmotic laxatives increase the level of water in the bowels, making the faeces softer and easier to pass.

Laxatives can provide quick relief from constipation. However, they may also cause adverse side effects, such as frequent diarrhoea and dehydration. Overuse of laxatives can lead to a dependency on them, where the body gets used to only passing faeces when stimulated by a laxative. Additionally, the chemicals in laxatives can kill beneficial bacteria in the bowel.

Laxatives are a short-term solution for constipation relief. They are not recommended for long-term use as they can interfere with the digestive system and cause health issues.

Laxatives can cause dependency

Laxatives are a medication that aids the emptying of the bowels and are available over the counter. They are designed to make passing stools easier and more comfortable. However, laxatives should only be used as a short-term solution, as overuse can lead to the body becoming dependent on them.

The body can quickly become reliant on laxatives to move waste through the body, and people can become both psychologically and physically dependent on them. The colon can become accustomed to only passing faeces when stimulated by a laxative, and the muscles in the colon can weaken over time. This can interfere with normal bowel movements, and individuals may find themselves dependent on higher and higher doses of laxatives to have a bowel movement.

Laxatives can cause constipation to worsen. When used for too long or in too high a quantity, laxatives can damage the nerves and muscles of the colon. This can lead to chronic constipation and long-term and potentially permanent damage to the digestive system.

Laxative abuse can also cause dehydration and mineral and electrolyte disturbances in the body. Electrolyte abnormalities can lead to weakness, irregular heartbeats, and sudden death. Dehydration puts stress on the organs and can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Laxatives can also strip away protective mucus and healthy bacteria in the intestines, leaving them vulnerable to infection and irritation. Some studies even suggest that abusing laxatives increases the risk of colon cancer.

Colonic irrigation doesn't interfere with the whole digestive system

Colonic irrigation, also known as colon hydrotherapy, is a wellness trend that has gained popularity in recent years. It involves flushing a large amount of water (up to 16 gallons or 60 litres) through the colon via a tube inserted into the rectum. This process is often done in clinics by a colon hydrotherapist and can take about 1-1.25 hours.

While colonic irrigation may provide temporary relief from constipation and other chronic symptoms, it is important to note that it does not interfere with the whole digestive system. Unlike laxatives, which can be taken orally and may cause some level of interference with the entire digestive system, colonic irrigation specifically targets the bowel or colon. The water used in the procedure is directed only at the bowel/colon, leaving the rest of the digestive system unaffected.

The targeted nature of colonic irrigation means that it does not carry the same risk of interfering with the natural processes of the digestive system as laxatives do. Laxatives can impact the body's ability to extract nutrients from food and regulate healthy intestinal motility. They can also cause issues such as cramping, lower abdominal pain, and bloody stools.

Additionally, colonic irrigation does not carry the same risk of dependency as laxatives. Laxatives can be overused, leading to the body becoming dependent on them to pass stools. On the other hand, colonic irrigation is not associated with such dependency, according to available information.

In conclusion, while colonic irrigation may have its own set of advantages and disadvantages, it is clear that it does not interfere with the whole digestive system in the way that laxatives might. Colonic irrigation specifically targets the bowel or colon, leaving the rest of the digestive system relatively unaffected.

Laxatives are available over the counter

There are four main types of laxatives:

• Bulk-forming laxatives increase the weight of poo, which stimulates the bowel. They take 2-3 days to work and include Fybogel and Celevac.
• Osmotic laxatives draw water from the body into the bowel to soften poo and make it easier to pass. They also take 2-3 days to work and include Movicol and Milk of Magnesia.
• Stool softener laxatives work by adding water to the faeces to make it easier to pass. They take 24-48 hours to work and include Dulcoease and Phillips' Stool Softener Liquid Gels.
• Stimulant laxatives speed up bowel movements by stimulating the muscles along the digestive tract. They take 6-12 hours to work and include Senokot and Dulcolax.

It is important to note that laxatives can have side effects, and they are not suitable for everyone. They are not usually recommended for children or people with certain health conditions, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. Common side effects include dehydration, which can cause dizziness, headaches, and dark-coloured urine.

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