What you may have heard
Colon cleansing can lower the risk of colorectal cancer by removing toxins and waste from the colon.
What the science tells us
The colon, an integral part of the digestive system, is responsible for absorbing water, salts, and nutrients from ingested food before expelling solid waste. It plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy bacterial composition, known as the microbiome, which is crucial for overall health and may offer protection against infections and colorectal cancer. The body’s natural digestive processes, including regular bowel movements, are sufficient to eliminate waste and toxins, thereby supporting a balanced gut microbiome without the need for additional cleansing.
Epidemiological Evidence:
Scientific research does not support the notion that colon cleansing reduces the risk of colorectal cancer. The colon’s natural functions are adequate for waste and toxin management, and there is no evidence suggesting that additional cleansing is necessary or beneficial in this regard.
Laboratory Evidence/Supporting Evidence:
The FDA does not regulate colon cleanse products, classifying them as dietary supplements, which may contain harmful ingredients. Furthermore, devices used for colon irrigation are not FDA-approved for this purpose, and practitioners of colon cleansing often lack certification from medical authorities, raising significant safety concerns.
IARC Carcinogen Classification:
Not Classified
How to reduce your risk
- Stay Hydrated: Adequate water intake is essential to facilitate the movement of food through the digestive system efficiently.
- Exercise Regularly: Physical activity accelerates digestion and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that adults engage in 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75-150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity each week.
- Follow a Plant-Based Diet: Consuming a diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, fruits, and beans increases fiber intake, which helps prevent gastrointestinal issues and lowers the risk of colorectal cancer.
- Add Resistant Starches and Probiotics to your Diet: Foods such as green bananas, beans, whole grains, yogurt, and kefir support a healthy gut microbiome.
- Avoid Harmful Substances: Limiting or avoiding tobacco, alcohol, and processed meats, and reducing red meat consumption to no more than 18 ounces per week, can lower cancer risk.
- Undergo Regular Screenings: Begin colorectal cancer screenings at age 45, or earlier if advised by a healthcare provider.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reducing body fat percentage can significantly decrease the risk of colorectal cancer.
Bottom line
Colon cleansing is not an evidence-based method for reducing the risk of colorectal cancer.