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A new online trend has emerged where some individuals on social media are trying out “coffee enemas.”
According to Rosario Ligresti, M.D., chief of gastroenterology at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey, an enema involves injecting a solution into the rectum and lower part of the colon (the large intestine).
“The primary goal is to stimulate a bowel movement, but it can also be used for administering medication or for diagnostic purposes,” Dr. Ligresti explained.
A coffee enema is a form of colon cleanse often used in alternative medicine. It is believed that absorbing compounds in the coffee will prompt the liver to detoxify the body.
This practice, which gained popularity in the 1920s and 1930s, is a key element of the “Gerson therapy,” an alternative cancer treatment.
An enema is a medical procedure that involves injecting a solution into the rectum and lower part of the colon. (iStock)
Dr. Ligresti mentioned that a patient had recently inquired about coffee enemas.
The process is similar to a standard enema, but instead of plain water, brewed, caffeinated coffee is mixed with water and flushed into the colon through the rectum.
The coffee-water mixture is retained in the colon for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the body to absorb the compounds before expelling the liquid.
Enemas have been utilized as detox tools in ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Ayurvedic practices. The use of coffee specifically is a more contemporary adaptation, according to Mona Sharma, a Los Angeles-based nutritionist and wellness entrepreneur.
Sharma has worked with clients who report feeling energized, clear-headed, or lighter after a coffee enema, although she emphasized that these experiences are anecdotal and not supported by conclusive clinical research.
Coffee enemas involve the same process as traditional procedures, but with a mix of coffee and water instead. (iStock)
Dr. Ligresti confirmed that there is no scientific evidence supporting the health benefits of coffee enemas.
He stated, “The belief that enemas can detoxify the body is a misconception. The liver and kidneys serve as the body’s natural detoxification systems.”
Sharma, as a wellness advocate, highlighted the importance of supporting the body’s natural cleansing abilities through proper nourishment.
She recommended detox-friendly practices such as consuming leafy greens, bitter herbs, and grounding techniques to help the body heal, repair, and thrive.
“The belief that enemas can detoxify the body is a misconception.”
Sharma cautioned that the risks of using a coffee enema are well-documented, including burns and infections from introducing hot coffee to sensitive areas of the body.
It is also possible to overdose on caffeine, leading to adverse effects like anxiety, heart palpitations, seizures, or even death.
While some individuals may experience short-term benefits, Sharma warned that coffee enemas pose potential risks, especially for those with specific health conditions.
Dr. Ligresti recommended sticking to traditional enemas and injected solutions under the guidance of a healthcare professional for treating constipation and preparing the bowel for medical procedures.
If someone chooses to explore coffee enemas, Sharma advised doing so under the supervision of a knowledgeable practitioner to monitor for any deficiencies or complications.
The House of Representatives passed a new bill on Wednesday that aims to improve internet safety for children. The bill, known as the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) Reform Act, includes stricter guidelines for online platforms that collect data from users under the age of 13.
Under the new bill, online platforms will be required to obtain parental consent before collecting personal information from children. The bill also includes provisions to increase transparency about data collection practices and to give parents more control over the information that is collected from their children.
Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to protect children from online predators and to prevent companies from exploiting their personal information for financial gain. However, some critics are concerned that the bill could stifle innovation and hinder the growth of the tech industry.
The bill will now move to the Senate for consideration. If it is passed into law, online platforms will have to make significant changes to comply with the new regulations and to ensure the safety and privacy of young users.
