Gastroenterologists say there’s little scientific evidence on the subject. While some people might feel better after colon hydrotherapy, “the potential risks of the procedure greatly outweigh the benefits,” and it won’t address the root causes of any digestive problems, says Dr. Nikiya Asamoah, a gastroenterologist at MedStar Health in Washington, D.C. Here’s what to know about colon hydrotherapy, whether it offers any benefits, and the possible side effects.
The procedure involves inserting a tube into the rectum and flushing the large intestines with large volumes of warm, filtered water over a 30- to 60-minute session, she says.
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Colon hydrotherapy is often done in non-medical settings, such as specialized clinics or wellness spas. Asamoah says no medical guidelines recommend them for digestive health or general wellness.
Are there any benefits of colon hydrotherapy?
Colon cleansing isn’t new. It’s been around for generations, and so has the idea that flushing the colon can remove toxins and residue. Proponents of the practice often claim it can boost energy, improve digestion, reduce bloating, enhance the immune system, and aid weight loss, Hazan says. But there’s “no strong scientific evidence supporting these benefits for routine wellness use.”
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Many people have colon hydrotherapy without any problems, says Dr. Suneal Agarwal, an associate professor of gastroenterology at the Baylor College of Medicine. But side effects are possible.
Another risk is infection from non-sterile equipment, which might happen if the procedure is done by inexperienced technicians or in non-medical settings, Hazan says. In rare cases, Asamoah says a colon cleanse could puncture your bowel, which may cause a severe infection or even be life-threatening.
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People with inflammatory bowel disease or a history of bowel obstruction shouldn’t have colon hydrotherapy, Agarwal says. People with irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis, hemorrhoids, fissures, fistulas, rectal bleeding, heart disease, or high blood pressure should also avoid the procedure, Hazan says. So should those with chronic kidney disease, a compromised immune system, or chronic constipation, Asamoah says.
You should see a doctor instead
Ongoing and persistent bloating or other digestive troubles could be a sign of a health condition, Asamoah says. “A significant proportion of patients with gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating have some degree of constipation or incomplete bowel emptying.”
However, if lifestyle modifications don’t improve your digestion, check in with your doctor instead of getting colon hydrotherapy, Asamoah says. Doctors will do blood work, discuss your diet and symptoms, and maybe perform an endoscopy or colonoscopy. (People at average risk for colon cancer should get a colonoscopy once they turn 45, state guidelines from the American Cancer Society.)
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The bottom line is that while colon hydrotherapy is marketed in wellness spaces, there’s no scientific support that it can improve digestion or overall health, and it can bring “real risks,” Hazan says.
“Your body is already highly effective at maintaining a clean, balanced colon without invasive flushing,” she says. “If tempted by a colonic, consult your doctor first; they can guide you toward tailored, evidence-based solutions rather than trendy procedures that may do more harm than good.”
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