Proctologist Nina Zubova: the intestines do not need any “preventive cleansing”.
Doctor Zubova urged Russians not to engage in procedures aimed at cleansing the intestinal tract. The doctor noted that any methods of cleansing the intestines, in addition to its natural physiological emptying, are a marketing ploy designed for clients willing to spend money for the benefit of their health.
The doctor emphasized that various types of “preventive cleansing” of the intestines can seriously harm health.
“Such methods are used in alternative medicine, at best they do not bring any benefit, at worst they can seriously harm health. Plus, a person spends significant amounts of money, time and effort,” Nina Zubova noted in an interview with Gazeta.Ru.
The coloproctologist added that one of the methods of such bowel cleansing – through enemas – can be used for constipation, but such a procedure should be prescribed exclusively by the attending physician. If people resort to enemas for the purpose of losing weight or “releasing” clogged intestines, they risk compromising their immune system, since periodic enemas can destroy the bacterial balance of the intestinal tract. Zubova emphasized that it is absolutely impossible to treat existing chronic constipation, hemorrhoids, and parasitosis with enemas.
“Frequent enemas disrupt the normal functioning of the intestines, washing out the microflora that protects the gastrointestinal tract from pathogenic bacteria and plays a significant role in the formation of immunity,” the doctor warned.
The specialist also called colon hydrotherapy, in which a large amount of water is introduced into the intestines, harmful. Such “treatment” can destroy the beneficial microflora of the intestines or cause perforation of its wall, introducing an infection.
As for intestinal cleansing with dietary supplements, juices, special cocktails, their effect is often achieved due to the presence of diuretic and laxative ingredients, the doctor explained. The result of taking them can be an imbalance of electrolytes, which are necessary for the normal functioning of all organs.
“Even drugs that contain “only natural plant components” can be dangerous. By abusing them to cleanse the intestines, a person can cause serious harm to the liver – the organ that is responsible for the natural cleansing of the body,” the expert warned.
Earlier, the MedikForum.ru portal wrote that some healthy products can harm the kidneys along with alcohol.
Important! Information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and do not self-medicate under any circumstances. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.
Nina Zubova Health surgeon, proctologist