Coffee enemas probably won’t detox your system

What do King Charles and Gwyneth Paltrow have in common?

They’ve both at one point or another caused coffee colonic-related controversies.

The Controversy

In 2004, the then Prince of Wales’s comments on Gerson therapy, a health programme marketed as an alternative treatment for cancer, that includes regular coffee enemas as a way to clear toxins from the body, seemed to endorse the unproven regimen. The prince’s opinion drew criticism from medical experts.

Wellness influencer Gwyneth Paltrow, on the other hand, promoted a DIY coffee enema kit on Goop, her lifestyle website, again drawing criticism from specialists who urged Goop fans to “keep the coffee out of your rectum and in your cup.”

The Trend Persists

Despite the expert critique, coffee enemas continue to be a social media wellness trend offered in many alternative health clinics as a method to cleanse the colon and detoxify the body. More worryingly, coffee enemas are still recommended by some influencers as an alternative treatment for cancer and other serious illnesses.

Gerson Therapy

Gerson therapy continues to be highly publicized as an alternative option to chemotherapy. Patients follow a strict organic vegetarian diet, which can include up to 13 glasses of fruit juice and up to five coffee enemas daily.

Benefits and Risks

Coffee enemas are believed to help the body expel toxins from the liver and gut, which is thought to relieve pain. The caffeine in coffee is thought to stimulate the liver and widen the bile ducts to increase the flow of bile and help remove toxins.

The Risks

However, several studies show that there is no evidence to prove this regime works to cure cancer and it is not supported by any reputable cancer organisations. But it’s possible the placebo effect might help some patients feel better. A review showed there were more reports about the side effects of coffee enemas than their efficacy.

Self-Cleaning

The gut is self-cleaning. Regular digestion and bowel movements mean the body gets rid of waste naturally. A high-fibre diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, wholegrains and seeds should be enough for good digestive health and could even reduce the risk of cancer.

Conclusion

While coffee enemas may have some benefits, the risks far outweigh the benefits. It is crucial to check with your doctor or specialist before embarking on any alternative or complementary therapies.

FAQs

Q: Is coffee enema a recommended treatment for cancer?
A: No, coffee enema is not a recommended treatment for cancer by reputable cancer organisations.

Q: Are coffee enemas safe?
A: No, coffee enemas can cause serious side effects, including proctocolitis, rectal burns, and electrolyte imbalance.

Q: Can I do coffee enemas at home?
A: No, it is not recommended to do coffee enemas at home. It is best to consult with a healthcare professional before attempting any alternative treatment.

Q: What is the recommended daily intake of fibre?
A: The recommended daily intake of fibre is at least 30g daily. Most adults, however, have an average of only 19g of fibre daily.