Medical testing of the sick has revealed extremely potent poisons in the intestines. Such poisons—even in minute quantities in a person who does not feel sick—affect the body’s delicate cells, resulting in changes that can result in disease. Colon hydrotherapy can help.

Like the harmful excess of daily diet, relying solely on a medical doctor is largely a North American phenomenon. Preventive measures and natural remedies are often sought out and recommended over prescription drugs in Asian, European, middle-Eastern and other countries. In such countries, the long history of colon hydrotherapy’s effectiveness is routinely acknowledged and accepted.

Colon hydrotherapy, which is also known as colon irrigation, colon therapy or colon detoxification, is a cleansing treatment in which a volume of water is introduced into the rectum and the colon. Although it is similar in theory to an enema, in practice and results, there is a notable difference. While enemas involve a single infusion of water, colon hydrotherapy, which is controlled by certified colon therapist, sends repeated infusions of filtered warm water into the colon.

Enemas reach only about the first 12 inches of the colon, whereas the water from a colonic travels throughout the entire length of the colon. The client lies comfortably on a treatment table for the entire session while the colon is filled and emptied several times. This is relaxing, risk-free process with no uncomfortable or unpleasant aspects when performed by a well-trained, certified practitioner.

It cannot be claimed that the accumulation of poisons from poor diet and malfunctioning digestive system are the only causes of disease, but a direct link can be found between these toxins and a host of symptoms and disorders affecting the entire system.

One eminent advocate of colon cleansing was Dr. John Harvey Kellogg, a practicing surgeon as well as the founder of the Kellogg’s cereal company. In the Journal of the American Medical Association, he reported that, of the 40,000 patients whose gastrointestinal disease he treated by colon therapy alone, only 20 required surgery. Kellogg’s findings from the early 20^th century have long since been supported by the latest research of our own day.

People seek colon hydrotherapy for many reasons, but the most common ones are abdominal bloating, constipation, cancer, excessive gas and skin problems. I see tremendous benefit in all cases of digestive complaints. Colon cleansing benefits skin and hair and provides superior body hydration. A primary function of the colon is to absorb water. Lack of hydration means harder stools. All of this contributes to internal congestion and cellular toxicity, and ultimately results in tissue oxidization—in other words, rapid aging.

From my years of experience and observation, I believe many diseases stem from dehydration in the colon and poor assimilation, along with increased of food additives, preservatives, pesticides, chlorine and toxic cleaning solutions. Food allergies and other digestive problems can damage the delicate hair-like intestinal extensions that are crucial in the absorption of nutrients. They may become ineffective or congested, therefore creating deficiencies or malabsorption syndromes.

When seeking a colon therapist, be sure to ask about certification. The International Association of Colon Therapists (IACT) upholds standards of hygiene and practice. ACT-certified therapists must use FDA-approved equipment with disposable hoses and insertion devices to maintain certification by the association. Your first experience (as well as all others) should be entirely positive.

If you have any of the following signs or symptoms, your health may benefit greatly from colon hydrotherapy:

• Abdominal bloating
• Acid reflux
• Acne
• Bowel movements that feel incomplete or difficult
• Foul-smelling breath and/or gas
• Grogginess or mental fog on awaking
• Narrow stools
• Nausea if you are active before eating
• Yeast infections

Kevin Patrick is a member of the International Association of Colon Therapists and an internationally recognized certified trainer of colon hydrotherapists. He practices in Vancouver, BC. Visit Kevin's website, www.vesttawholehealth.com. To find a colon therapist in your area, visit www.hans.org.