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A new trend has emerged on social media where individuals are trying out “coffee enemas” while enjoying their morning coffee.
A coffee enema involves injecting a solution into the rectum and lower part of the colon, according to Rosario Ligresti, M.D., chief of gastroenterology at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey.
“The main purpose is to stimulate a bowel movement, but it can also be used for medication administration or diagnostic purposes,” he explained.
A coffee enema is a type of colon cleanse that is part of alternative medicine, based on the belief that compounds in coffee can prompt the liver to detoxify the body, Ligresti added.
This practice, which gained popularity in the 1920s and 1930s, is a key component of the “Gerson therapy,” an alternative cancer treatment, according to the doctor.
An enema is a medical procedure that involves injecting a solution into the rectum and lower part of the colon. (iStock)
“Interestingly enough, one of my patients recently inquired about coffee enemas,” Ligresti shared.
The process of a coffee enema is similar to a regular enema, but it involves flushing the colon with a mixture of brewed, caffeinated coffee through the rectum.
The coffee-water blend stays in the colon for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the body to absorb the compounds through the intestinal wall before expelling the liquid.
Enemas have been used as detoxification tools in ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Ayurvedic practices, “but the use of coffee specifically is a more modern adaptation,” noted Mona Sharma, a Los Angeles-based nutritionist and wellness entrepreneur.
“In my experience, clients have reported feeling energized, clear-headed, or lighter after a coffee enema,” Sharma mentioned. “However, I do not typically recommend this method for detoxification.”
She emphasized that her clients’ feedback is based on personal experiences 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)
Ligresti confirmed that there is no scientific evidence supporting the health benefits of a coffee enema.
“The notion that enemas can ‘detoxify’ the body is a misconception,” he stated. “The liver and kidneys serve as the body’s natural detoxification systems.”
As a wellness advocate, Sharma also believes in supporting the body’s natural cleansing abilities.
“The notion that enemas can ‘detoxify’ the body is a misconception.”
“Our organs are highly capable of self-cleansing when provided with proper nourishment,” she explained.
Sharma recommends practices like consuming leafy greens, bitter herbs, and grounding techniques to help the body heal, repair, and thrive.
Potential risks
Ligresti cautioned that the risks of using a coffee enema are well-documented, including burns and infections from introducing hot coffee to sensitive body areas.
It is also possible to overdose on caffeine after absorbing a toxic amount, leading to symptoms such as anxiety, heart palpitations, and in severe cases, seizures or death, according to the expert.
While some individuals may experience short-term benefits, Sharma highlighted the potential risks of coffee enemas, especially for those with certain health conditions.
“According to current medical evidence and health organizations, coffee enemas should not be considered,” Ligresti advised.
The procedure is much the same as a regular enema, except the water is mixed with brewed, caffeinated coffee and flushed into the colon through the rectum. (iStock)
Experts agree that traditional enemas and prescribed solutions are safe medical tools for addressing constipation and preparing the bowel for procedures under healthcare professional guidance.
If someone chooses to explore this therapy, Sharma recommends doing so under the supervision of a knowledgeable practitioner who can monitor for any issues.
A new study has found that consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Researchers analyzed data from over 10,000 participants and found that those who ate the most fruits and vegetables had a 50% lower risk of developing the disease compared to those who consumed the least.
The study also found that specific fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries, grapes, apples, and leafy greens, were particularly beneficial in reducing the risk of Type 2 diabetes. These findings support previous research that has suggested a link between a plant-based diet and a lower risk of developing the disease.
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body processes sugar. It can lead to serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. By incorporating more fruits and vegetables into their diet, individuals may be able to reduce their risk of developing this potentially life-threatening disease.
While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between diet and Type 2 diabetes, this study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the benefits of a plant-based diet for overall health. Incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables into your daily meals may not only improve your health but also reduce your risk of developing chronic conditions like Type 2 diabetes.
