2)    There is no scientific evidence that it works – Sure, people claim that there are benefits. But how much of that is in the mind? A study by the American Journal of Gastroenterology claims there are no research studies to support colonics, and a Georgetown University study concluded there is little to no effect from a colon cleansing.

3)    Losing weight is no reason to do it – Sure, you may lose a few pounds of water weight and some stool, but permanent fat loss is not going to happen. Most calories are absorbed before reaching the large intestine, so irrigating that part of the body isn't effective.

4)    Not everyone is a candidate – A hidden underlying medical condition may be exacerbated by the colon cleanse, including heart disease and kidney disease. If you have gastrointestinal problems, including Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis, you should not undergo a colonic treatment.

5)    Washing away gut bacteria may have consequences – Why would you want to eliminate beneficial colon bacteria? Instead of improving health, you may open the door for the bad bacteria in the body to gain the upper hand because of the reduced presence of good bacteria. Scientists are not sure based on research to date, how much good bacteria is lost in a colonic.

Keep in mind the Hippocratic Oath – do no harm – which all doctors take. The bulk of scientific research to date can’t be certain what potential harm colonics may hold, so they can only point out that the body already does a fine job on its own of ridding itself of problems. Bowel movements, colon mucus and the liver are effective filters for most toxins.

The best way to live a good and healthy life is to monitor diet and lifestyle. The old maxims of eat right, exercise more, and avoid smoking and excess alcohol may be boring and not offer immediate relief, but they are proven strategies for warding off most of the terrible ravages of major diseases. These conservative habits also come with little risk to your health, unlike colonics, where there have been some fatalities linked to coffee colonics and allergies.

Keep in mind that so-called natural treatments are not necessarily safe or recommended. Many states do not license colonic therapists, so the procedures used are not regulated in any way. It is wise to do homework and consult your doctor before engaging in colonics. While there may be little risk, it’s a voluntary procedure that could have severe consequences if something goes wrong.