Getting a deep colon cleanse may be able to remove years of toxicity from your system, according to Dr. Edward F. Group at the Colon Cleanse and Constipation Resource Center. Your colon processes your food and helps you eliminate waste; it's natural to want to keep it as clean and functional as possible.

The most common type of enema is the type you can buy at a pharmacy to treat constipation. Your doctor may also use an enema to diagnose various types of gastrointestinal diseases. The type of enema you need depends on your circumstances and the recommendation of your doctor.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American society is increasingly characterized by the promotion of an increased intake of unhealthy foods and a lack of physical activity. This environment has led to a growing obesity problem.

The average person carries 5 or more pounds of waste in her colon, according to the website Colon Health. Doing a colon cleanse will cause you to eliminate that waste and drop those pounds. The weight loss won't be permanent, though, because you'll continue to eat, digest and eliminate food.

Hydrocolon cleansing, or colon irrigation, is an alternative therapy used for detoxification. The procedure involves using water, herbal solutions and enzymes to eliminate toxins in the gastrointestinal system.

Metamucil is a brand-name fiber supplement that provides typical fiber-related benefits to your digestive system. Your colon is the final part of your small intestine, and Metamucil helps to keep food moving through the colon so that you don't become constipated.

Because so many Americans diets are fiber-deficient, it is prudent not only to increase fiber in the diet, but also to periodically cleanse the colon.

Compromised liver and kidney function, faulty digestion, constipation and bloating are some of the symptoms of a blocked colon.

Diverticulosis, or the presence of small herniations in your intestinal lining, may occur when you exert pressure on your colon while straining to pass hard stools.

The colon, or large intestine, is an essential organ for absorbing nutrients, synthesizing vitamins and regulating water levels in the body. Lack of a well balanced diet, especially foods high in fiber, can lead to clogging of the colon.

Late night informericals and supposed experts tout the importance of colon cleansers and keeping your colon free of debris and bacteria. Unfortunately, the merit of a cleansed colon or the effectiveness of colon cleaners has not been widely studied, and as such, most claims are unwarranted.

Various medical procedures, such as a colonoscopic polypectomy to remove polyps, require an empty colon to perform the surgery. A patient will likely be given a prescription for a bowel preparation kit to cleanse the colon.