Some say disease begins in the colon. The colon, or large intestine, is our fueling station as well as our waste management system. Here, in the last five feet of intestinal tract, toxins can take two courses. A clean, healthy colon efficiently eliminates toxins. A clogged, unhealthy colon allows toxins to back up into the liver and bloodstream, polluting the entire system. Just for the record, colon cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S.
For one thing, we are continuously violating our bodies including our colon by eating terrible foods. Eating the right foods can cleanse your colon of toxins. Read on to discover what the best diet for colon cleansing and ultimately good health is.
Fibre
Plant-based diets containing generous amounts of vegetables, fruits, beans, seeds, nuts and whole grains are high in fibre, which is the essential, non-digestible component of food. A high-fibre diet supports a healthy digestive tract by sweeping debris from the colon, much like a broom. Fibre exercises the intestinal tract by stimulating peristalsis, the wave-like muscular contractions of the bowel that decrease bowel transit time. Fibre also holds moisture in the colon, softening the stool.
Green Foods
The high chlorophyll content of green foods (such as alfalfa, wheatgrass, barley grass, spirulina, blue-green algae) makes them ideal for colon cleansing. In addition to cleansing, chlorophyll soothes and heals damaged tissue in the digestive tract. It helps the body to obtain more oxygen and draws out toxins. For this reason, chlorophyll is called “the internal deodorant.”
Fermented Foods
A diet high in refined carbohydrates and low in fibre reduces the number of friendly bacteria in the intestines, upsetting the balance of the body’s intestinal ecosystem. Yogurt, kefir and other fermented foods such as miso and sauerkraut can replenish friendly bacteria. These beneficial bacteria synthesize vitamins from food remnants, degrade toxins, prevent colonization of disease-causing micro- organisms, crowd out less beneficial bacteria, stimulate the immune system and produce short-chain fatty acids that provide an energy source for cells lining the colon.
Water
Most people need to drink more water. Water is the universal solvent, and an insufficient amount of it causes constipation and toxicity in the bowel and kidneys. Physical activity, fever, hot or dry climates and consumption of meat and salty foods all increase the need for water. The optimal amount varies widely, usually from six to 10 glasses a day. One useful formula is to drink half your weight in ounces. For example, if you weigh 120 pounds (55 kilograms), drink 60 ounces (eight glasses/two litres) of water per day. This can include pure water, herb tea or diluted fruit juices. Caffeinated beverages do not count because they are dehydrating. The best time to drink a glass of water is between meals or 20 minutes or more before eating; sip only small amounts with a meal. An important rule is: When thirsty, drink water not pop or other beverages.
Cleansing and nourishing are two equally important factors in the health equation. Keeping your colon clean in turn keeps your tissues clean and allows your cells to rebuild. Ultimately, a colon-cleansing diet both nourishes the body and clears the way to good health.
Reference: NaturalNews
