A Healthy Colon Needs Fiber

Fiber supplementation is a great start for cleaning the colon. Fiber supplementation can compliment a diet that is low in fiber. When choosing a fiber supplement, one should view the entire blend of ingredients. The most advantageous fiber supplements should have a blend of l-glutamine, inulin, Fibersol-2 and probiotics.

Fibersol-2 is one of the latest innovations in fiber therapy. Fibersol-2 is a soluble fiber made by the pyrolysis and stabilized enzymatic hydrolysis of cornstarch. It is a safe (GRAS) maltodextrin, easily mixed in water and carries no flavor. It helps to support overall health by helping to maintain normal cholesterol levels, helping to maintain normal blood glucose levels and promoting immune health.

Inulin fiber delivers eight milligrams of prebiotic. Prebiotic fibers are food sources that are preferred by friendly bacteria. Inulin or fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) are fibers in the form of starches that the human body cannot fully digest. When a person consumes prebiotics, the undigested portions provide nourishment for beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract. Inulins may promote the growth of favorable bacterial populations, such as bifidobacteria in the colon.

Probiotics, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, are strains of "beneficial" bacteria known to help to maintain a healthy digestive tract. The digestive system naturally contains trillions of these beneficial bacteria that directly help the body digest, modify and convert the foods we eat.  Disruptions to these bacterial populations are common and must be kept at adequate levels in order to overwhelm harmful bacteria. Lactobacillus acidophilus and other beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus plantarum, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus casei may also play a significant role in maintaining a healthy immune system, and promoting a healthy colon.

Glutamine is a an amino acid that is used by the GI tract as its source of fuel. Glutamine helps to support overall health by helping to maintain normal cholesterol levels, helping to maintain normal blood glucose levels and promoting immune health. Heavy exercise, infection, surgery and trauma can all deplete the body's glutamine reserves, particularly in muscle cells. Because the cells of the intestine use glutamine for fuel, supplemental L-glutamine has been used to promote digestive health.

The average American diet tends to be quite high in both fat and calories. Over time, a diet lacking certain nutrients and adequate daily fiber can cause undigested food to slow down its transit time in the colon, which could lead to various health issues. In addition, toxins and bacteria from this residue can cause further digestive issues. Such consequences make the case for maintaining sound colon health including cleansing the colon of toxic substances.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product(s) is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

References:

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• Arunachalam K et al. Enhancement of natural immune function by dietary consumption of Bifidobacterium lactis (HN019). European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 54(3):263-7, 2000.

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• Cummings J et al. A study of fructo oligosaccharides in the prevention of travellers' diarrhoea. Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 15:1139–1145, 2001.