Have 100% whole grains in your diet, such as brown rice, quinoa, oatmeal, millet, and corn. Flax seeds, psyllium husk, wheat bran, and oats are super-sources of fiber. [4] X Research source Dale Prokupek, MD. Gastroenterologist. Personal interview. 16 April 2020. You can prepare flax seed at home, have it in smoothies, or add it to other foods. Fruits like strawberries, apples, and blueberries are high in fiber. Beans, seeds, and nuts are also good sources of fiber.
Alfalfa, wheatgrass, Brussels sprouts, collard greens, kale, spinach, peas, and barley grass are all good leafy greens. You can also try snacking on vegetables by dipping them in hummus, tzatziki, or baba ganoush.
You may get in the habit of carrying around a full water bottle with you wherever you go so you can hydrate throughout the day. You may also set a reminder on your phone so you can remember to have at least nine cups of water a day. Try adding sliced lemons, limes, and cucumber to your water to make it taste more exciting. You can also add herbs like mint to your water.
You can also take a probiotic supplement. Make sure you buy a probiotic supplement from a reputable supplier online or in a health food store.
You can also try doing a home workout with resistance bands to stretch your muscles and build strength. Or you may take an exercise class to help you workout regularly, such as a yoga class or an aerobics class.
If you are experiencing irritable bowel syndrome, irregular bowel movements, or digestive issues, you may try bulk-forming laxatives such as Metamucil, Citrucel or Psyllium. Take bulk-forming laxatives with lots of water. Side effects can include bloating, gas, cramping, and increased constipation. If you are struggling with passing stool, you can try stool softeners. Stool softeners are generally safe for use and generate less bloating than bulk-forming laxatives. Never take laxatives as a weight loss supplement. This is damaging to your health and may cause other medical issues. [13] X Research source
Talk to your doctor before using any colon cleansing products. Check the ingredients list on the product and make sure the specific herbal ingredients are clearly noted. If you are concerned you may be allergic to any of the ingredients or you cannot identify any of the ingredients in the colon cleansing product, do not use the product. [16] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Make sure you drink a lot of water while taking a colon cleansing product. This will ensure you do not become dehydrated and that the product can work properly. Do not use colon cleansing products as a way to lose weight or diet. This is an unhealthy way to lose weight and can lead to other health issues. It has also been shown to be an ineffective way to lose weight. [17] X Research source
During the procedure, a pump is inserted into your rectum and about five gallons of warm water are put into your system over a period of time. Once the water is in your colon, the therapist may massage your abdomen to get circulate the water through your colon and to help waste products pass out of your body. The procedure can take about 30 to 45 minutes. You should not have a colonic irrigation performed if you have certain medical conditions, including diverticulitis, severe hemorrhoids, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, bowel or rectum tumors, recent bowel surgery, heart disease, or kidney disease. [19] X Research source
Your doctor may recommend a certain type of enema for you, based on your needs. The enema insertion should be done by a trained professional in a sterile space with clean equipment.
Make sure you are aware of the side effects of the medication you are taking. If the side effects become severe, you should see your doctor right away. Side effects of colon medications can include short term nausea, dizziness, and cramps.
