Have you ever wanted to learn more about colonics? Do you have questions about your bowel movements, but were too embarrassed to talk with someone about it? We answer all your questions as we have a conversation with licensed Colon Therapist Sue Ontiveros.
Can you tell us a little about the history of Colon Therapy?
In the early 1900’s, John H. Kellogg, M.D., the lead physician at the Battle Creek Sanitarium for Health used Colon Therapy on over forty thousand patients. Until the 1920’s, it was standard practice for medical doctors to have Colon Hydrotherapy equipment in their offices. As pharmaceutical use increased in-office Colon Therapy became less widely used. A recent revival in recognizing the advantages of natural methods for healing has caused a renewed interest in Colon Hydrotherapy. Now medical physicians endorse the practice of Colonics as a significant complimentary and primary treatment for conditions affecting the health of patients.
You don’t hear much about colonics; why is that?
Of all the polite topics of conversation, the state of one’s intestines is probably at the bottom of most people’s lists to talk about. Let’s face it: IBS, constipation, gas, diverticulitis and colon cancer are simply not things we like to discuss. Yet, as the old expression goes, death begins in the colon. Don’t believe it? Ask any coroner. Autopsies often reveal colons that are clogged up to 80 percent with waste material.
How is Colon Irrigation performed?
Colon Irrigation is the slow inflow of warm purified water into the large intestine or colon. It is a method of cleaning out the bowel and restoring regular bowel habits. This helps to lead to a cleaner body through more efficient elimination of waste. The treatment is gentle and done in a professional manner. You are given a pair of colonic shorts to change into; your dignity is maintained at all times.
Therefore, you cleanse the colon?
Yes, that is exactly what we do. Toxic material is broken down so it can no longer harm your body or inhibit assimilation and elimination. Even debris built up over a long period is gently removed in a series of treatments. It also exercises the colon muscle. The build-up of toxic debris weakens the colon and impairs its functioning.
What are some of the reasons people seek a Colonic?
Waste material consisting of feces, dead cellular tissue, accumulated mucous, parasites, etc. which pose several problems when it sits in the colon. This material is quite toxic; these poisons re-enter and circulate in the blood stream making us feel ill, tired, or weak. Impacted material impairs the colon’s ability to assimilate minerals and vitamins efficiently. In addition, a build-up of material on the colon wall can inhibit muscular action causing sluggish bowel movements, and results in many disorders: excess weight, impaired digestion, irritability, skin conditions, bloating, headaches, and fatigue are just some of the symptoms clients seek to relieve.
What about constipation?
Many health authorities believe that constipation is the number one affliction underlying every ailment. This means that constipation would be the most prevalent ailment affecting the civilized world. It is vital to stress that constipation affects the health of the colon upon which the health of the body, in its entirety, is affected as well! Americans spend billions every year on laxatives, which in time weaken the peristalsis of the colon, leading to the use of more laxatives. Colonics help to tone the colon, rebuilding the muscular contractions so that normal bowel elimination can resume.
How long does a Colonic take?
Probably 90% of all Colonics take about 30 minutes of actual treatment time. It could be shorter or longer, depending on how quickly your body responds to the therapy.
How many sessions will be needed?
This is a difficult question to answer; everyone is an individual. Once our licensed colon therapist has seen you, he/she will be able to guide you. There are many factors to consider, but on average four to six Colonics, over a four-week period; is generally needed to cleanse the entire five feet of the colon.
Why doesn’t a single colonic completely empty the colon?
Please don’t get me wrong, it can! Most people are on a typical American diet consisting of wheat, dairy, and too much meat. We are not a society of water drinkers; therefore, we are in a chronic state of dehydration. Too many are impacted with years of accumulated fecal matter. The objective should not be an empty colon, but rather a well functioning colon.
Will it help to lose weight?
Most Americans have about 5-10 pounds of fecal matter stored in the colon. One of the simplest ways to lose weight is to cleanse the colon. A pint is equal to a pound, so depending on how many pints are removed; significant weight loss can be achieved. The second way is by the detoxification of the colon. A clean colon aids the liver in its job of detoxifying the body, working on toxins stored in the fat cells. Cleansing the colon is just the beginning of a new level of health. Combined with a proper diet and exercise regime, it will undoubtedly facilitate weight loss.
Is it messy?
No. There is no mess or odor as all of the waste is carried out of the body enclosed within a hose, which is directly attached to the plumbing.
Does it hurt?
This is a question I am most often asked; no it does not hurt! The insertion of the speculum may feel a little strange, but it is small and does not hurt. The main feeling during the procedure is that you are having a bowel movement, which of course you are! You will feel pressure during the treatment, but not pain.
Is it safe?
Absolutely! All instruments are either disposed of or sterilized between clients. Our digital autoclave system is the same sterilization method used by hospitals. Thousands have received colonics safely. Unlike the regular use of laxatives, colonics are not habit forming and in fact improve colon muscle tone, and peristaltic action.
Sue, is there anything else you would like to add?
If you have a family history of colon disease, or have been suffering with constipation, IBS, diarrhea, or any of the other disorders we discussed earlier, please know that there is help. It is very upsetting when a client will say “I wish I had known there was help years ago, I have suffered for so long.” This is a very affordable, gentle treatment. Cleansing the colon is essential to good health. Take your first step today toward a healthier life…you will be glad you did.
Sue Ontiveros is owner of Essentials for Health, a beautiful colon therapy office located in St. Petersburg, FL. Sue graduated from Sun Coast School of Massage; she then continued her training in the specialized field of Colon Therapy at the Wood Hygienic Institute in Kissimmee, FL. Sue has performed over 8,000 colonics, making her very knowledgeable in her field. Disclaimer: Colon Therapy is not intended to replace the relationship with your primary health care providers and the information provided here is not intended as medical advice.
