We asked Kylie and Nikki's favorite colonic hydrotherapist, Markie of Advanced Whole Health Colonic to dive deeper into the important practice of colonics.
We are, quite literally, what we eat. Modern diets are filled with food and drink that are acidic and full of preservatives, dyes, etc. In the gut, where there is soft porous tissue, when in contact with acid levels that are too high, the body will create a layer of Mucus for protection. While mucus can be a lifesaver, it also blocks proper absorption of water and essential nutrients where it is coating the intestinal walls. Colon hydrotherapy uses warm water to gently irrigate the intestine and the body naturally, and without force, releases any layers of acid, mucus, bowel movements and old mucoid plaques. This clears the way for proper absorption of the vital nutrients of vitamins, minerals, water, food, and supplements through the colon walls. All those essential nutrients are then able to go directly into the bloodstream circulating to where the body needs them most.
Our colon is as long as we are tall and the human intestines can hold 5-25 pounds of fecal waste depending on our diet and digestive health. Even those who workout regularly, have flat or muscular abdomens and have 2-3 bowel movements a day can still have pounds of waste stored in various areas of their intestines. We do not want the food and drinks we’ve consumed over the last decades to continue powering disease within our bodies. Instead, we want to be powered by the living and natural earth provided foods we enjoy each time we eat. And, most importantly, once our body has absorbed what is needed the rest should be discarded and not stored. Clearing this waste can have profound effects, from increased hydration and nutrient absorption to a greater sense of mental clarity.
Common Questions:
How Do You Feel After a Colonic?
A common question we receive is: How do you feel after a colonic? The answer? Most people say Euphoric/high, relaxed, empty, relieved, revitalized, “humming” because of the restoration of hydration levels within the body. Warm waters aren’t just irrigating the intestines to soften stools and remove mucoid plaque, it is also absorbed and evenly distributed throughout the entire body. Most not only see a difference in the ease of their bowel movements, but also in their overall skin health, energy levels and a clarity of mind, body and soul connection. When we remove what doesn’t belong in the gut anymore- old, candida/yeast, already used and metabolized hormones, cortisol, parasites, bad bacteria, fermenting foods and put back what does belong- purified water and pre/probiotics to replenish the intestinal micro biome, the body experiences a reset after the detoxification and can begin to heal from the inside out.
Benefits may include relief from dehydration, constipation/IBS, bloating, fatigue, brain fog, weight loss and weight management, skin disorders, headaches, hormones imbalances, prostate health, PCOS, anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
Does It Hurt?
A properly performed colonic should never be painful. Some people describe a mild pressure, some discomfort, or the sensation of release. When performed properly by an educated trained experienced professional it is a safe, effective method of removing waste from the large intestine without the use of drugs or chemicals (ex: stool softeners, laxitives, miralax, dulcolax, benefiber)
How Do You Find a Qualified Colonic Practitioner?
Not all colonics are created equal, and finding the right practitioner is key. Here are some essential questions to ask before booking your session:
- Do you use an open or closed system? A “closed system" is the preferred system as there is NO exposed waste. No smell and no mess. The waste is secure inside a hose that connects to a speculum that has been gently placed by your practitioner only a few inches inside the rectum. The waste is seen momentarily as it passes through a small viewing tube on the colonic instrument/machine and then it goes directly to the sewer, never to be seen, heard or smelled again! Your practitioner should be able to relay to you the details of what they are seeing move through the tube and explain the meaning behind the colors of the waters and bowels passing through, identifying parasites, etc. Giving more insight to what’s sitting in the gut causing those symptoms we discussed previously.
- What is your background and training? Look for practitioners with formal education in digestive health or holistic medicine. Some practitioners come from holistic or medical backgrounds but there are also some without any previous experience in healthcare and with very little knowledge of anatomy, or digestive health. It’s important to get to know your potential practitioners background and if they have any other licenses or certifications or had formal training from a licensed healthcare professional ie. Medical doctor, naturopathic doctor, chiropractic doctor etc.
- How do you maintain cleanliness? All equipment should be single-use or thoroughly sterilized between sessions. Ask how often they replace their enema bulbs or buckets and how often they sanitize their equipment. What are they using to sanitize? Confirm all tubes and speculum kits are brand new per each patient every visit- note that if there needs to be a reconnection to the instrument for any reason at any time, a new kit should be opened and used. Gloves should be changed multiple times per session- first after connection to instrument and lastly before disconnection from instrument.
- What kind of lubricants do you use? Please be sure that non toxic lubricants are being used - ideally organic coconut oil - extra virgin, unrefined and cold-pressed.
- Are the materials used FDA-approved? Colonic equipment is classified as a medical device and should meet safety standards. Most importantly be sure they are using FDA approved equipment. These are class 2 medical devices and need a prescription/approval from a state board certified physician to purchase and they only use disposable rectal nozzles/speculae. Absolutely no homemade units, or reusable rectal speculums and tubing.
- Do you perform abdominal massage to help release gas bubbles? It’s best to stimulate and help the waste and gas bubbles move through and out of the body by gently massaging the tummy throughout your session. So ask if they massage your abdomen or touch your stomach at all. Even though it’s beneficial it’s not mandatory and all based on your comfort level and nervous system
Find a therapist that fills your physical and emotional needs with a personality that puts you at ease and feeling confident in their abilities and professionalism. It’s not only a time for physical detox but a time for emotional releases as well. so you need a practitioner that will get to know you and hold a safe space for you in those moments of detox.
How Often Should You Get a Colonic?
The frequency of colonics depends on the goals of the individual. If you’re on a detox or planning on doing any organ detoxing, candida, heavy metal or parasite cleanse, expect 3-6 sessions closer together to start. Once hydration is established, the bowel has achieved 100% detox, and the drainage pathway is officially open, it’s ideal to see your practitioner once a month for best health maintenance sessions. If you’re on a budget and would like more affordable option while still keeping up with your better health, it’s best to come every-other month or seasonally(4x yearly at the start of each new season)
Here’s a general guide:
- For detoxing or cleansing: 3-6 sessions in close succession (weekly or multiple times per week)
- For general maintenance: Once a month is ideal
- For a budget-friendly option: Every other month or seasonally (four times per year)
Who Can Benefit from Colonics?
Colonics can be for everyone but are particularly beneficial for:
- Frequent travelers: If you travel regularly whether it’s for a living or for fun, it’s usually a dehydrating and constipating time where you sleep schedule and diet are much different from your normal routine.
- Athletes: If you have fitness goals, weight loss management, training for races or competitions, colonics are great for proper absorption, hydration, creatine intake, building of muscles, and lactic acid recovery. They can increase athletic performance as the body is hydrated, able to fuel itself properly and recover faster, with the ability to actually absorb proteins, fiber, and supplements more efficiently
- Those undergoing surgery: If you’re having a surgery as a part of your pre and post operative care.
- Those doing a cleanse: Colonics can be great for pre cleanse, during and post cleanse detoxification to be sure what you’re killing off is being effectively removed from the body.
- Those addressing hormone imbalances: Women experiencing infertility, PCOS, symptoms of endometriosis, period cramps, or PMDD may find relief through regular colonics. Colonics help your body rid itself of the old already used hormones and offers an opportunity for recalibration of hormones receptors
- Women in their second trimester of pregnancy and beyond: Can relieve the very common, and sometimes chronic, constipation and hemorrhoids that can happen during pregnancy, birth and postpartum.
- Men looking for improved overall wellness: Can support prostate health, improve testosterone levels, and enhance reproductive function. The prostate gland, located near the rectum, plays a crucial role in overall male wellness. By keeping this area free of toxic waste buildup, men can experience improved circulation, hormonal balance, and even enhanced fertility
Colonics are more than just a digestive cleanse—they offer a holistic reset for the entire body. Whether you’re looking to detox, improve gut health, or simply feel lighter and more energized, colon hydrotherapy can be a valuable tool in your wellness journey.
If you’re curious about colonics or have any questions, feel free to reach out—we’d love to guide you on your path to better health!