Improved digestion is one of the benefits of colon hydrotherapy. But can colonics help with gallbladder troubles, too?
The gallbladder is a small digestive organ, often described as about the size of a pear. It sits under the liver and next to the pancreas, ready to squeeze bile into the small intestine to help us digest fat.
Sometimes the gallbladder malfunctions and the bile it produces doesn’t contain the right balance of chemicals. The bile can cause the formation of crystals, which in time form gallstones.
Certain health factors may increase the likelihood of gallbladder issues, such as having excess body fat (particularly around the middle) or losing weight rapidly. Gallstones are much more common among people over the age of 40, especially women.
You might be having gallstone issues if you experience indigestion after eating fried foods or meals that are high in fat or protein, especially if you have a sudden pain in the upper-right side of your abdomen that lasts anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours.
There are steps you can take to promote gallbladder health and prevent gallstones. These include eating a high-fiber diet and healthy fats (such as olive oil and avocado), exercising regularly and limiting your intake of high-fat foods.
Many people swear by gallbladder cleanses as a way to avoid surgery for gallstones. These often include fasting for several hours and then drinking several tablespoons of olive oil and lemon juice at prescribed intervals. A cleanse can cause diarrhea and have some risks if you have other health issues, so it’s a good idea to consult your healthcare practitioner before you start.
Colon hydrotherapy can support a gallbladder cleanse and your overall digestive health by gently eliminating excess waste and toxins. Benefits include reduced bloating, constipation and gas.
For more information about the process, read our article about common colon hydrotherapy myths and facts.
Colonics detoxify by encouraging the body to dump any excess build-up of bile from the digestive system. Removing the excess bile is important because reabsorbed bile allows fat-soluble toxins to recirculate (constipation increases the percentage of reabsorbed bile).
Our bodies need a holistic approach to care, with a combination of a healthy diet, regular exercise, and self-care that includes a focus on digestive health (like colon hydrotherapy and a well-supported detoxification program).
Want to keep your gallbladder healthy? Visit the Eco Chateau Wellness Spa at our locations in San Diego’s Sorrento Valley or Mission Valley for colon hydrotherapy and other wellness services.