Eating some foods appears to help cleanse the colon. However, it is important to know that they do not have the miraculous ability to detoxify the body. In fact, in a healthy person, the colon functions on its own as a cleansing apparatus for the body.
So, what food does is help improve intestinal motility so that waste is not retained, especially when there is constipation or irregular bowel movements. Next, we will tell you more about the tasks of the colon and how adequate nutrition promotes it.
Is it necessary to clean the colon?
It is very likely that you have heard about foods to cleanse the colon. Even today there are a wide variety of supplements that claim to fulfill this function. Many think that this organ should be cleansed regularly to ensure good digestive health.
However, to date there is no solid evidence on the effectiveness of the cleanups. In fact, the topic of detoxification is quite questionable and divides opinions. In any case, it seems that there are certain ingredients that stimulate the intestine to remove waste.
How does the colon work?
To better understand the above, it is convenient to know that the colon plays a relevant role in the digestive system. Once the small intestine digests the food and extracts its nutrients, they pass to the colon to be broken down. What this organ does is absorb moisture from food and, later, eliminate waste.
Because of this, many experts consider popular detox methods to be ineffective and even dangerous in some cases. As long as it is healthy, the colon can on its own break down and eliminate food waste to complete the digestion process.
What is supported by evidence is that adequate nutrition is key for this organ to function well. As detailed in a study published in the Journal of Translational Medicine, a good diet promotes the balance of the intestinal microbiota and reduces the risk of disease, not only at the digestive level, but in other systems.
5 foods to cleanse the colon
1. Oats
When it comes to helping cleanse the colon, oats are one of the most recommended foods. Due to its content of a type of fiber known as beta-glucans, it contributes to the balance of intestinal bacteria and supports the large intestine in its functions.
A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition determined that the consumption of recipes such as oatmeal porridge has positive effects on the intestinal microflora, since they act as prebiotics. The latter function as food for the healthy bacteria that live in the colon.
2. Chia and flax seeds
Both chia seeds and flax seeds have good components to stimulate colon functions. One of the most notable is omega 3 fatty acids, a type of healthy fat that has anti-inflammatory effects. Due to this, its intake reduces inflammation of the colon.
Likewise, they are a source of plant fiber, which once comes into contact with water, favors the elimination of waste retained in this organ, especially when there is an episode of constipation. Both can be added to smoothies, salads, soups and other recipes.
3. Natural yogurt
Including a portion of natural yogurt as part of a healthy and varied diet can promote colon cleansing. This food, like other fermented products, contains probiotics that help repopulate the intestinal flora. By promoting this balance, the health of the colon improves, as well as its natural functions.
4. Cruciferous vegetables
An optimal consumption of fiber is decisive to stimulate the functions of the colon and support its cleansing. According to a meta-analysis published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology, optimal intake of dietary fiber increases stool frequency in patients with constipation.
Although there are many foods that contain this nutrient, it is worth highlighting cruciferous vegetables, which provide significant doses, in addition to other nutrients. Some especially recommended options are broccoli, cauliflower and kale.
5. Walnuts
Like seeds, walnuts provide significant amounts of omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fiber. These nutritional properties are what contribute to cleansing the colon, not only because they stimulate peristalsis, but because they minimize inflammation.
Evidence in animals shows that eating this variety of nuts produces a healthy intestinal environment and reduces the risk of chronic diseases in the digestive system.
What to remember about foods to cleanse the colon?
Foods to cleanse the colon are contributors to the functions of this organ. On their own they cannot purify or detoxify the body, but included in the framework of a healthy diet they are beneficial to stimulate the elimination of waste.
Its consumption is recommended for problems such as constipation or slow digestion. However, given the complexity that these disorders can cause, it is worth remembering that it is important to consult a doctor.
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