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To rid the body of the toxins and poisons many people believe aren't eliminated naturally from the body, a theory called "auto-intoxication", they choose the alternative medicine practice of the 7 day colon cleanse. A contributing factor to build-up of toxic waste in the colon is the diet we eat today. Most of us eat very processed foods which lack the fiber needed to completely empty the colon. As a result, some type of colon cleanser is needed to help finish the job.

Most people with a basic understanding of how the body works know that bowel health can be improved through a healthy diet. However, many people don't eat well due to time constraints or bad dietary habits. A colon cleanse thus seems more logical than greatly altering one's diet. Given the choice, many people would prefer a 7 day colon cleanse to a new, permanent dietary regime.

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.

Psyllium seed is a natural product that swells to absorb water, thus providing bulk which the intestines will then attempt to remove. Most 7 day colon cleanse supporters use psyllium seed, which is gentle and often used in fiber supplements and laxatives. Other substances such as bentonite clay may be used to remove toxins from the body. Various herbs, senna, laxatives, and purgatives may also be included, but some of these are not safe as they can lead to cramping and may trigger serious diarrhea.