Can Probiotics & Colon Cleanser Be Taken at the Same Time?

Using colon cleansers and probiotics together is a growing trend and proving to be beneficial. Colon cleaners became popular as a way to lose weight fast. As we are becoming more health-conscious we are learning that there are drawbacks to using these products. Fortunately, using probiotics with colon cleansers can offer a variety of health benefits.

Function

The purpose of colon cleansing is to remove harmful bacteria from the body. Unfortunately, this process removes all bacteria, including that which your body needs to remain healthy (see Reference 1), as colon cleansers cannot differentiate between good and bad bacteria. Probiotics add good bacteria to your system, establishing a healthy balance between the good and the bad. Along with colon cleansing, this helps produce the 80 percent good and 20 percent bad bacteria that your body needs (see Reference 1).

Time Frame

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Taking a probiotic supplement daily is important during any colon cleanse and should be taken approximately 30 minutes before mealtime. Colon cleansers may or may not be taken every day. All-natural colon cleansers that contain fiber or herbs are safer if you follow the instructions, though some people choose to take the colon cleansers just a few times a week.

Misconceptions

The foods that you eat, although sometimes nutritious, do not provide the good bacteria your body needs, as the processing it goes through takes away much of the needed good bacteria. Yogurt, on the other hand, is a great source of probiotics. You also may not be getting enough fiber in your diet, which is an added benefit of taking colon cleansers.

Types

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The best colon cleansers are fiber-based (see Reference 2) because they are both effective and good for your health. Probiotics that provide the greatest benefits are supplements that contain the greatest amounts of saccharomyces, lactobacillus acidophilus and bifidobacteria (see Reference 3).

Warning

If you're looking for a colon cleanser to use on a frequent basis stay away from products containing cascara sagrada, senna and phyllium. These herbs are very powerful and should only be taken as needed (see Resource 1). It is equally important to read labels of all-natural products as those of any other type of product. Always use care to determine what these products are made of and consider their pros and cons before taking them.