Constipation and improper elimination seem to be at an all-time high in many societies today. As a result, people looking for natural solutions may turn to ongoing magnesium supplementation; foods known to move the bowels, such as prunes; and herbs, such as cascara and senna. There are some potential harmful effects of using cascara and senna on an ongoing basis, as they do not address the cause of constipation. Considered "natural laxatives," they can create dependence and disrupt peristalsis (the natural contractions of the bowel)- i.e. you may not be able to defecate without them..  

Instead, an herbal formula that can be very helpful to relieve constipation and restore normal bowel function over time is Colon Cleanse. This is a formula made of herbs, fruits, vegetables, and fiber to address the many needs of the colon.  Some of the key ingredients and their function are as follows:

Aloe helps to support healing of the lining of the stomach and keep the folds
and pockets of the colon free of toxic material that gather there.*

Arabinogalactans support colon health by acting as a fermentable fiber to
promote growth of probiotic bacteria such as Lactobacillus and
Bifidobacteria in the colon.* They also work in the GI tract by activating
immune cells.*

Artichoke promotes the flow of bile.* Good bile flow is also necessary for
detoxification which is carried out by the liver. Bile serves as a carrier for
the toxins that are excreted by the liver which are then sent to the intestine
for their exit from the body.

Bentonite Clay is natural clay used for detoxification of toxins and
unwanted material.* Bentonite also helps clean the colon by scraping the
linings of the colon thereby freeing it of the various wastes deposited by
years of eating an unhealthy diet.*

Burdock promotes the flow and release of bile, which helps to cleanse the
liver.* It also aids the digestive process.* The mucilage, “bitter” and inulin
contents in Burdock also help to support good digestion, as well as soothe
the digestive tract.*

Chlorella supports cell reproduction, as well as restorative processes that
promote healthy organs and tissues.* Chlorella also aids the body in the
breakdown of unwanted materials like heavy metals, and supports proper
digestion by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and assisting in the
elimination of unwanted materials from the body.*

Fibersol-2™ is a soluble fiber that has been shown to support proper bowel
function, regularity, fecal volume, beneficial micro flora as well as a clean
and healthy digestive tract.*​

Fructooligosaccharides aid in the elimination of unwanted
substances and supports G.I. Tract health.* Fructooligosaccharides (FOS)
are considered a soluble fiber and pre-biotic that support the growth of
beneficial bacteria.* Since FOS is not digested it increases the material in
the digestive tract and promotes regularity.*

L-Glutamine is a key component in the maintenance of healthy intestinal
mucosa.* It fuels intestinal cells and maintains villi.* A lack of glutamine
may lead to a loss of enterocyte (cells in the small intestine) integrity in the
lining of the intestines, which may affect digestion and absorption or allow
pathogens into the body.*

N-Acetyl Glucosamine improves the integrity of the mucosal lining.*

Olive Leaf Extract works directly against unwanted materials by
stimulating your own protective cells (phagocytes) to ingest them without
suppressing the immune system or damaging the body’s beneficial flora.*

Spirulina supports healthy functioning of the liver and immune system, to
aid in detoxification.*

As always, addressing the root cause of improper elimination is first and foremost. So, before starting on any substance or formula, discuss the best strategy for you with your doctor or qualified healthcare practitioner.  Dr. John Phelts III, DC uses Applied Kinesiology to determine the cause of your gastrointestinal issues and applies appropriate techniques to correct the problem.  

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