How much waste does the average colon actually hold. What are the facts about fecal matter retention in the body. Can excessive amounts of stool really get stuck in the gut. Is colon cleansing necessary for optimal health.

Understanding Colon Function and Fecal Matter

The human colon, also known as the large intestine, plays a crucial role in our digestive system. Its primary functions include absorbing water from indigestible food matter and storing waste until it’s expelled from the body. But how much waste does the average colon actually hold?

Contrary to popular misconceptions, the colon does not typically store large amounts of fecal matter for extended periods. Dr. Darren Brenner, a professor of medicine in gastroenterology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, states that “The average man or woman passes, on average, approximately 14 to 16 ounces of stool per day.”

The Colon’s Natural Cleansing Process

The human body has an impressive built-in system for waste management. Dr. Geoffrey Preidis, a spokesperson for the American Gastroenterological Association, explains that the intestines are lined with cells that continuously regenerate. “New cells are being made, and old cells are being sloughed off and eliminated in stool,” he says. “The entire lining of the intestines regenerates in less than a week.”

Debunking the Myth of Excessive Fecal Matter Retention

A widespread claim suggests that the average person carries 5 to 15 pounds of stool “stuck” in their gut. Is there any truth to this assertion?

Medical experts firmly refute this claim. Dr. Brenner clarifies that even for individuals experiencing constipation, “there is unlikely to be more than a few pounds of stool in the colon.” The idea of large amounts of waste being trapped in the gut for extended periods is not supported by scientific evidence.

The Reality of Colon Function

Dr. Brenner likens the colon’s operation to an assembly line, explaining that in some individuals with constipation, this “line” may move more slowly than in others. However, he emphasizes that when colonoscopies are performed on these individuals, “there is no evidence of inflammation or toxicity noted either with the naked eye or under the microscope.”

The Continuous Process of Waste Formation

It’s important to understand that waste formation in the body is an ongoing process. Why does this occur?

• Indigestible food components
• Unabsorbed nutrients
• Metabolic byproducts from cellular activities
• Waste generated by intestinal bacteria

Dr. Preidis points out that due to these factors, small amounts of waste are formed continuously. This means that the colon is never entirely empty of stool, as it’s constantly processing and preparing waste for elimination.

The Dangers of Pseudoscientific Health Claims

Why do myths about excessive fecal matter retention persist? Often, these claims are used to market various digestive supplements or “colon cleansing” products. However, these products are not only unnecessary but can potentially be harmful.

Dr. Preidis advises caution when encountering health claims on social media. It’s crucial to seek information from reliable sources and consult healthcare professionals for concerns about digestive health.

The Risks of Unnecessary Colon Cleansing

Are there potential dangers associated with colon cleansing products? While marketed as beneficial, these products can disrupt the natural balance of the digestive system. Potential risks include:

1. Dehydration
2. Electrolyte imbalances
3. Disruption of beneficial gut bacteria
4. Damage to the colon’s lining

Maintaining Optimal Colon Health

How can one support their colon health naturally? Instead of relying on unproven supplements or cleansing products, focus on lifestyle factors that promote overall digestive health:

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fiber
• Stay adequately hydrated
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Manage stress levels
• Practice good toilet habits

These simple steps can go a long way in supporting your colon’s natural functions and overall digestive health.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While it’s normal to have variations in bowel habits, certain symptoms may warrant medical attention. Dr. Brenner advises, “If you are concerned about your colon health or bowel patterns, the best thing you can do is discuss this with your primary practitioner or gastroenterologist.”

Signs that may indicate a need for medical consultation include:

• Persistent changes in bowel habits
• Chronic constipation or diarrhea
• Blood in the stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Severe abdominal pain

The Role of Gut Bacteria in Colon Health

Recent research has highlighted the importance of the gut microbiome in overall health. How does this relate to colon function?

The gut microbiome, consisting of trillions of microorganisms, plays a crucial role in various aspects of health, including:

• Digestion and nutrient absorption
• Immune system regulation
• Production of certain vitamins
• Protection against harmful bacteria

Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome can contribute to optimal colon function and overall digestive health. This can be achieved through a balanced diet, including prebiotic and probiotic foods, and avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use.

The Impact of Diet on Colon Health

Diet plays a significant role in maintaining colon health. What dietary factors are most important for optimal colon function?

Fiber: The Colon’s Best Friend

Dietary fiber is crucial for colon health. It adds bulk to stool, promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. There are two main types of fiber:

• Soluble fiber: Dissolves in water and can help lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels
• Insoluble fiber: Adds bulk to stool and helps food pass more quickly through the stomach and intestines

Good sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.

Hydration and Colon Health

Adequate hydration is essential for proper colon function. Water helps soften stool and promotes regular bowel movements. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day, adjusting based on activity level and climate.

The Role of Probiotics

Probiotic foods contain beneficial bacteria that can support gut health. These include:

• Yogurt
• Kefir
• Sauerkraut
• Kimchi
• Kombucha

Incorporating these foods into your diet can help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, supporting overall colon health.

Exercise and Colon Health

Physical activity plays a crucial role in maintaining colon health. How does exercise benefit the colon?

Regular physical activity can:

• Stimulate bowel movements
• Reduce the risk of colon cancer
• Help maintain a healthy weight, which is associated with better colon health
• Improve overall digestive function

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week. This can include activities like brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming.

The Mind-Gut Connection

Emerging research suggests a strong connection between mental health and gut health. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact digestive function, potentially leading to issues like constipation or diarrhea.

Incorporating stress-reduction techniques into your routine can support colon health. Consider practices such as:

• Meditation
• Deep breathing exercises
• Yoga
• Regular sleep patterns

These practices can help maintain a healthy gut-brain axis, promoting optimal digestive function.

The Importance of Regular Screenings

Regular colon cancer screenings are crucial for maintaining colon health, especially as we age. When should one begin regular screenings?

The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk of colorectal cancer start regular screenings at age 45. Screening options include:

• Colonoscopy
• Stool-based tests
• Virtual colonoscopy

The frequency of screenings depends on the individual’s risk factors and the results of previous screenings. Always consult with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate screening schedule for you.

Risk Factors for Colon Health Issues

Several factors can increase the risk of colon health problems, including colon cancer. These include:

• Age (risk increases after 50)
• Family history of colon cancer or polyps
• Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Sedentary lifestyle

Understanding these risk factors can help individuals make informed decisions about their lifestyle and screening practices.

Emerging Research in Colon Health

The field of gastroenterology is constantly evolving, with new research shedding light on various aspects of colon health. What are some of the latest developments in this area?

Microbiome Research

Recent studies have focused on the complex relationship between the gut microbiome and overall health. Researchers are exploring how changes in the microbiome may influence various health conditions, including:

• Inflammatory bowel diseases
• Colorectal cancer
• Metabolic disorders
• Mental health conditions

This research may lead to new therapeutic approaches for maintaining colon health and treating digestive disorders.

Precision Medicine in Gastroenterology

The concept of precision medicine is gaining traction in the field of gastroenterology. This approach involves tailoring medical treatment to the individual characteristics of each patient, considering factors such as:

• Genetic makeup
• Microbiome composition
• Environmental factors
• Lifestyle habits

This personalized approach may lead to more effective treatments for various colon-related conditions in the future.

Advancements in Screening Technologies

Ongoing research is focused on developing more accurate and less invasive screening methods for colon cancer and other digestive disorders. Some promising areas include:

• Blood-based biomarker tests
• Improved imaging techniques
• Artificial intelligence-assisted diagnostics

These advancements may lead to earlier detection and more effective treatment of colon-related issues.

In conclusion, maintaining colon health is crucial for overall well-being. By understanding the facts about colon function, debunking myths about fecal matter retention, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits, individuals can support their digestive health naturally. Remember, if you have concerns about your colon health, always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and care.

Feeling weighed down? It’s not because there are 5-15 pounds of stool ‘stuck’ in your gut

Broad and bold claims aren’t uncommon when marketing products, and that holds true in the health and wellness sector.

A Jan. 18 post shared on Facebook made one such eyebrow-raising claim in its effort to sell a digestion supplement: “The average American has anywhere from 5 to 15 pounds” of stool “stuck” in their gut.

A nearly 30-minute video accompanying the caption echoed the same talking points, repeatedly claiming that people have “up to 20 extra pounds” of stool “trapped in the gut” and that sometimes “up to 10 or even 15 pounds of undigested waste” are left in the digestive system.

This post was flagged as part of Facebook’s efforts to combat false news and misinformation on its News Feed. (Read more about our partnership with Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram.)

(Screenshot from Facebook.)

Average people don’t have anything — let alone 5 to 15 pounds of stool — “stuck” in their gut, doctors told PolitiFact.

“The average man or woman passes, on average, approximately 14 to 16 ounces of stool per day,” said Dr. Darren Brenner, a professor of medicine in the gastroenterology division at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. 

Even for people experiencing constipation, “there is unlikely to be more than a few pounds of stool in the colon,” Brenner said. 

Dr. Geoffrey Preidis, a spokesperson for the American Gastroenterological Association, said that the intestines are covered by a lining of cells that continuously regenerate. Preidis is also an assistant professor of pediatrics in the Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition at the Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital.

“New cells are being made, and old cells are being sloughed off and eliminated in stool,” he said. “The entire lining of the intestines regenerates in less than a week.”

Stool does not get “stuck” in the colon for extended periods of time, Brenner explained, as that would result in damage to the lining of the colon or to the colon’s ability to function.

“The colon works in many ways like an assembly line, and in some individuals with constipation, that line may move more slowly than in others,” Brenner said. “When you do colonoscopies on these individuals, there is no evidence of inflammation or toxicity noted either with the naked eye or under the microscope.”

Additionally, the gut always contains some amount of waste, experts said. 

“The colon is never really devoid of stool,” Brenner said. “It is the organ that removes water to solidify stool, and there is always some amount of stool in it.”

The indigestible and unabsorbed components of food form waste. Because waste is also generated by the metabolic activities of the body’s cells and the bacteria in the intestines, small amounts of waste are formed all the time, Preidis said. 

Preidis encouraged people to be cautious about health claims that circulate on social media.

“If you are concerned about your colon health or bowel patterns, the best thing you can do is discuss this with your primary practitioner or gastroenterologist,” Brenner added.

Our ruling

A Facebook post claimed “the average American has anywhere from 5 to 15 pounds” of stool “stuck” in their gut.

Doctors told PolitiFact that average people do not have 5 to 15 pounds of stool “stuck” in their gut. The cells that form the lining of the intestine regenerate continuously and are fully replaced in less than a week, meaning that stool does not remain stuck there for extended periods. 

Experts also noted that despite what some digestive supplements sellers might claim, it is impossible to fully eliminate all the waste in the gut because it is always being formed. 

We rate these claims False.

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You’re Full of Crap. Literally. | Office for Science and Society

I’m told I’m full of ….ummm “crap.”  And so are most of you.  Literally. So say the promoters of various colon cleansers. Actually, they’re not quite so crass, they prefer to use gentler terms like, fecal matter, impacted waste, or “spackle.” But the message is clear. Our colons are loaded with a repulsive noxious sludge, the result of an improper diet and a “toxic” environment. This putrid goo sticks to the wall of the colon, boosting our body weight. Even worse, it releases its foul contents into our blood, poisoning our entire system. The result? A nation of bloated sickies who lack energy and mental clarity. The unnamed toxins are powerful indeed, causing, we are told, ailments ranging from asthma, allergies and prostate problems to cancer, heart disease and an impaired sex drive. But luckily there is salvation in sight. We can sweep the fetid guck out of our colon with one of a myriad colon cleansers that compete for our attention, and of course for our dollars, via ads that populate radio waves, magazines and the Internet. 

And what spirited and imaginative ads! One product claims that we have anywhere from six to forty pounds of waste, feces and undigested food stuck in our bodies.  Another one compares the weight of the waste to carrying a bowling ball in our gut. Then there are accounts of famous people who died and were found to be full of intestinal sludge. John Wayne, depending on which product’s info you’re reading, was found to have anywhere from forty to eighty pounds of impacted matter in his colon. A curious claim, given that no autopsy was performed on the Duke. But the most inspired ads are the ones that provide us with a visual extravaganza of the “mucoid plaque” that is eliminated by users of colon cleansers. The pictures show the relieved patient holding the cause of his former misery, a long, gummy looking repulsive excretion. This, we’re told, is the toxic guck that had built up in his colon over years before making a triumphant exit, stimulated by the wondrous colon cleanser!

Now let’s get real here. Have pathologists who have carried out thousands of autopsies seen pounds of goo encrusted in intestines? No. Have colo-rectal surgeons who have operated on colons thousands of times seen such sludge? No.  Have radiologists who have perused thousands of x-rays of the colon noted the buildup of “mucoid plaque?” No. Why? Because it doesn’t exist. The term itself was the invention of naturopath Richard Anderson who created Arise and Shine, a popular colon cleanser. So what then is the yucky stuff that has emerged from the rear of a happy colon cleanser devotee that we see revoltingly displayed in those photos on the web? Supposing that the pictures are not faked, I suspect what we are looking at is the colon cleanser itself making an impressive appearance.

Although the specific ingredients in these products vary, they all contain some sort of laxative, be it a fiber blend or an extract of cascara sagrada bark, well known to stimulate intestinal contractions. Classic fibers include psyllium husk, flax seed, fennel seed, slippery elm bark, apple pectin and guar gum.  All of these can send you running in a hurry. And they are indeed prescribed for that very purpose by physicians. But problems can arise.  Fiber absorbs water in the gut and sometimes can swell, making it difficult to expel. Usually this is prevented by drinking lots of water which helps flush out the fiber before it has a chance to expand and form an intestinal blockage.  In rare cases, with just the right (actually wrong) amount of water consumed, the mixture of fibers can be expelled as a long stringy slimy glop. The likelihood of this happening is increased if the colon cleanser contains bentonite clay, sometimes included for its ability to “absorb toxins.” Such an impressive excremental display would be very rare, and certainly not something that all users should expect, contrary to what the promoters imply. And most assuredly the disgusting exudate is not any sort of toxic buildup being expelled.

Of course just because the pounds of intestinal gunk only exist in the sluggish mind of some quack, we can’t assume that products that help to evacuate the colon more regularly have no merit. What we need, though, are not baseless statements like “a dirty colon is a breeding ground for disease,” or testimonials from users about how their bad breath, dizziness, irritability or “brain fog” were resolved after scrubbing and buffing their colon.  How about some evidence? 

Well you can search the scientific literature high and low and you will not find any proper controlled trial of colon cleansers showing they have any health benefit. How about problems? Possible. Back in the early 90s, guar gum, an ingredient present is some colonics, was banned in the U.S. from diet products. At the time chewing gum with added guar gum was a hot seller because it was supposed to curb the appetite by filling the stomach as it absorbed water. It did, but it also caused esophageal and intestinal blockages. And yet, there it is today in some colon cleansers. One of these actually makes the claim of weight loss as it uses guar gum to “evercleanse” the pounds and pounds of (nonexistant) “spackle” from the colon. It is not the colon but the absurd claim that needs to be cleansed.

While the cleaning effect of colonics on colons is questionable, their effect on cleaning out bank accounts is not. A month’s supply needed to “dredge toxic sediment” can run up to a tidy little sum.  Why not spend the money instead on what goes into the colon rather than on what comes out. A diet high in whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables is what your colon and the rest of your body really needs. Granted, your output may not be quite as spectacular as the samples seen in those colon cleanser ads, but you and your bank account will be healthier. Of course, if you are a fervent believer in colon cleansing, you will not be deterred by my arguments and will remain convinced that unlike you, I’m full of “crap.”

@JoeSchwarcz

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90,000 how do the examination, how to prepare for the procedure?

Examination by the method of defectography (intestinal proctography) is performed for chronic constipation or fecal incontinence. After receiving a series of x-rays, a specialist can confirm or clarify the diagnosis and find out if the symptoms are associated with a disease of the muscular apparatus.

General characteristics of the survey

An x-ray of the rectum is performed using a barium-based contrast agent. Contrast in the form of a thick suspension is administered rectally. After that, the specialist takes a series of x-rays of the intestine in various planes. The method of intestinal proctography (defectography) is used to diagnose the process of defecation and examine the muscles of the pelvic floor.

In most cases, proctography causes embarrassment in patients, because this examination is associated with the process of defecation. Nevertheless, the method allows diagnosing serious diseases, so the direction of a specialist for defectography should be taken seriously.

Indications for proctography

Intestinal proctography is prescribed for severe ailments of the rectum and pelvic muscles, which are indicated by a number of obvious symptoms.

Constipation

Constipation regularly affects up to half of the adult population of the Earth. However, the chronic manifestation of the symptom can cause serious harm to health. Including lead to prolapse of the rectum. The causes of constipation are divided into primary (congenital anomalies and developmental pathologies) and secondary (diseases and damage to the intestines).

Defectography is performed to examine the anorectal zone, including the calculation of the anorectal angle during straining and at rest. Normal angle is 90 and 110 degrees respectively. If the patient suffers from chronic constipation, it does not exceed 100 degrees.

Fecal incontinence

Fecal incontinence is a disease in which bowel movements occur against the will of the patient. The symptom can be caused by a variety of conditions, including constipation and diarrhea, nerve disease, pelvic floor dysfunction, rectal muscle damage or weakness.

In case of fecal incontinence, bowel proctography is indicated because this examination allows you to assess how much stool the rectum can hold, how it is distributed, and how the intestine copes with defecation.

Rectocele, enterocele, sigmoidocele

In a rectocele, the rectum protrudes into the vagina. An enterocele is a protrusion of the peritoneum and small intestine. In a sigmoidocele, the peritoneum descends toward the pelvic floor, with loops of the small or large intestine putting pressure on the rectum, making defecation difficult.

Diseases appear as a result of physical exertion, due to obesity or after a difficult birth. In this case, the patient suffers from constipation, pain and bleeding.

Defectography of the rectum (irrigoscopy) helps to make an accurate diagnosis.

Megarectum (significant expansion of the rectum at the level of the distal fragment of the sacrum)

A number of reasons can lead to the expansion of the rectum. Often the source of a megarectum is severe inflammation, a complication of ulcerative colitis, or nerve damage. However, in some cases, the expansion of the rectum occurs due to a mechanical obstacle, including the fault of the tumor.

To identify the causes of megarectum, an examination of the rectum is performed using X-ray. The procedure allows you to establish a diagnosis in a timely manner and, if necessary, prescribe an operation.

Rectal intussusception

Rectal intussusception (invagination of the rectum) is called intestinal obstruction, in which one part of it is embedded in another. The anomaly may result from severe constipation or severe straining during bowel movements. X-ray of the rectum with rectal intussusception helps to localize the anomaly and plan the operation.

Anismus (dyssenergic defecation)

Dyssenergic defecation or anismus occurs due to the inability to fully relax the external sphincter and pelvic floor muscles when straining during defecation. The disease can lead to constipation and the loss of the patient’s ability to empty the intestines on their own.

Usually, a rectal x-ray is taken after or instead of anorectal manometry. Examination allows you to clarify the diagnosis and identify possible complications. For example, the formation of fecolith. If the anomaly is not detected in time and treated, serious consequences can occur, including fecal incontinence.

Intestinal obstruction

In almost 4% of cases, emergency surgery in abdominal surgery is required due to intestinal obstruction. The symptom can manifest itself in various diseases and almost always requires surgical treatment.

For the intervention to be effective, it is necessary to correctly, and most importantly, timely diagnose the disease. Therefore, at the first signs of intestinal obstruction, the specialist prescribes a series of examinations. Including bowel proctography.

Preparation for proctography

In order to properly prepare for defectography, you need to clearly understand what bowel proctography is and how it is performed. During the examination, the intestines are filled with a contrast agent, so the patient must empty it before the procedure.

Colon cleansing

Two cleansing enemas are given two hours before the procedure, 15 minutes apart. From this time on, the patient should not take food or medications. Immediately before defectography, a thick mixture of barium and starch is injected into the patient’s rectum, this is the final stage of preparation. For the procedure, the doctor uses a syringe with a nozzle in the form of a plastic tube. Up to 250 ml of contrast agent is injected. In female patients, contrast may sometimes be injected into the vagina.

Strict diet

In order for the proctography to have the best effect, it is better to start preparing for the examination 2-3 days before the procedure. During this period, you should adhere to a slag-free diet and refuse fried and fatty foods, fresh vegetables and fruits, coffee, bread, legumes, milk and other foods that promote gas formation.

On the eve of bowel proctography, it is recommended to take 30 g of castor oil and make a cleansing enema. Dinner before defectography is not recommended.

How is the study going?

An examination such as an x-ray of the rectum is done under the supervision of a doctor. A specialist using a special syringe fills the patient’s rectum with a thick suspension of a contrast agent, after which an x-ray is used. Pictures are taken during bowel movements.

The procedure is usually painless for the patient. Therefore, bowel proctography is performed without anesthesia.

Contraindications for procedure

The examination is generally harmless to the patient. However, defectography has some contraindications. Examination is not done with perforation of the colon wall and patients in serious condition. In addition, bowel proctography has common contraindications for all X-ray methods of examination: pregnancy and age up to 15 years.

Intestinal lavages | it’s… What is an intestinal lavage?

hydrotherapy procedures in which mineral water or solutions of various medicinal substances are injected into the large intestine. They are intended for therapeutic effects by thermal, chemical and mechanical irritation of the intestinal mucosa, as well as for cleansing the intestines from feces, bacteria, decay products, fermentation and excretions that have been retained in it. Main indications: chronic colitis, gastritis, diseases of the liver and biliary tract, skin (eczema, psoriasis), metabolic disorders (gout, diabetes, obesity, diathesis). Contraindications: acute and chronic inflammatory diseases of the abdominal organs in the acute stage, peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, prolapse of the rectum, complicated by hemorrhoids, anal fissures, polyposis and diverticulosis of the intestine, inguinal hernia, pregnancy, intestinal bleeding, severe violations of the function of the heart vascular system. K. p. is prescribed after a thorough examination of the patient, including mandatory digital rectal examination and sigmoidoscopy; underwater K. p. – only after irrigoscopy and examination of the organs of the genital area.

For K. II. resorts use various mineral waters of low mineralization (no more than 10 g / l ) – Essentuki, Slavyanovskaya, Smirnovskaya, etc. With fresh water, depending on the indications, a decoction of chamomile is added to it, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), common salt, Epsom salt or Karlovy Vary salt (3 g per 1 l water), potassium permanganate (1 g per 1 l water) and other solutions that disinfect and thin the contents of the intestine. On the day of K. p., especially underwater, other general hydrotherapy procedures should not be carried out (Water therapy) .

Underwater K. p. (subwater irrigation) is carried out in a separate room with a toilet bowl and a shower installation in a bath with a capacity of 400-600 liters. The patient is placed in a bath half-filled with water t° 36-37° and a rubber tip lubricated with vaseline is inserted into the rectum, put on a special device; then the bath is filled with water. Medicinal water is introduced into the intestines t° 37-39°. When the urge to defecate appears, the introduction of water is stopped, the patient is offered to expel the water by slight straining. In this case, the contents of the intestine are displayed in a colostomy bag connected to the sewer. Water coming from the wash tank t° 36-37° irrigate the perineum. The procedure lasts 30-40 min, during which the medicinal water is repeatedly injected into the intestines in portions of 0.5-1.5 l . For the first procedure, 8-10 l of water is consumed, by the end of treatment – 12-15 l . Procedures are carried out 1-2 times a week, only 6-8, less often 10 procedures.

Intestinal lavage-irrigation according to Lensky is carried out on the couch or bed of the patient. The undressed patient is laid on a bedpan. A rectal tube lubricated with petroleum jelly is inserted into the rectum along with a thin intestinal probe passing through it. The probe is first advanced to a depth of 8-12 cm , and then gradually – by 40-60 cm . Medicinal water t° 38-40° from the tank through the intestinal tube enters the intestine and, irrigating it, flows freely through the rectal tube into the bedpan. The procedures are carried out every other day, starting with the introduction of 8 l of medicinal water and bringing its amount by the end of the course of treatment (8-10 procedures) to 20 l .

Intestinal lavage with the patient in a sitting position is carried out in a cabin equipped with a special apparatus or a toilet bowl and a rinsing tank. Healing water t° 38-39° from the tank is fed through a rubber tube to a rectal tip fixed at the bottom of the toilet bowl. The patient inserts a rectal tip, lubricated with petroleum jelly, into the rectum to a depth of 15-20 cm and, opening the clamp on the inlet tube, passes water into the intestine. When the urge to defecate, the patient clamps the inlet tube and.