Many people who practice alternative medicine recommend the 7 day colon cleanse for a variety of reasons. Some subscribe to what is called "auto-intoxication" when it is believed that the body creates toxins and poisons itself when these are not properly eliminated, Modern diets are often very processed and lack the fiber for efficient bowel function, requiring the use of a colon cleanser of some kind to facilitate elimination.

Anyone can tell you that eating right is a big step toward a healthier-functioning digestive system and bowel health. But what many do not realize is that for some people, simply forming good eating habits isn't enough. A colen cleanse is an effective procedure for many people, and much more reasonable than an extreme diet change. Signing up for a 7 day colon cleanse can do wonders for your body, and seems much less daunting to most people than a complete makeover of their diet.

There are many different varieties of colon cleansers marketed in commercial sales. Some are sold as individual products, others come in a kit form which may have multiple items designed to be used together. Some colon cleansing techniques may require a person to use an enema or a colon irrigation to ensure the bowels are as empty as possible. Other colon solutions recommend diet or fasting with water being the only intake over the course of seven days.

Why is it that so many colon cleansing products use a seven day period? It may be as simple as the familiarity of a one-week schedule. Seven days is not a long enough commitment of time to daunt many people. Some people believe that a natural seven day cycle, linked to the menstrual cycle or the phases of the moon, governs health. Some believe that it takes seven days to remove toxins from the lymph or blood. Whatever the reason, a 7 day colon cleanse cycle has become the standard used by many such products.

It is sensible to discuss any health program or treatment with your regular physician before beginning it, but the 7 day colon cleanse is normally safe for most people, especially one that relies on gentle bulk-forming materials to encourage the bowels to empty. It's prudent to be careful whatever the products used because any person might have special health concerns. Be aware that a traditional physician may dispute the idea that the colon can even have large amounts of fecal material built up or that there is any need to cleanse at all.

Most 7 day colon cleanse regimes rely primarily on psyllium seed, often ground, a natural product that swells on contact with water and provides bulk in the intestines which stimulates them to act and empty. It is fairly gentle and also the common ingredient in bulk laxatives and fiber supplements marketed for routine use. Some plans add other herbs and substance, such as bentonite clay which is supposed to remove toxins from the body. Other may add senna or other laxative or purgative preparations, but these can cause cramping and diarrhea and may be less safe.