June 16, 2014
Two months ago, in an edgy detoxification and self-experimentation move, I found myself lying on my left side in my bathtub with an infrared lamp shining on my lower abdomen and a tube full of Kion Coffee getting shot up my butt.
That's right – I gave myself a Kion Coffee enema.
And I gotta tell you: not only did I feel “clean as a whistle” afterwards, but my energy levels were so intense and amazing for the rest of that day that I've given myself nearly a dozen coffee enemas since then.
C'mon, I know you're colon is just quivering with curiosity now, right?
Let's delve in into everything you've always wanted to know about coffee enemas (but were afraid to ask).
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What Is A Coffee Enema?
A coffee enema is an ancient herbal and folklore hydrotherapy procedure in which you fill an enema bag or bucket with a mix of water and coffee, then feed this mixture into your colon via a tube, hold it inside for about 15 to 30 minutes, then expel it into the toilet.
Sounds easy enough, eh?
But coffee enemas aren't exactly some new underground biohacking method. The coffee bean and coffee plant have been part of herbal medicine, folk medicine and shamanic healing for thousands of years. One colorful description of an enema is found in the Dead Sea scrolls:
“…seek, therefore, a large trailing gourd, having a stalk the length of a man; take out its inwards and fill it with water from the river which the sun has warmed. Hang it upon the branch of a tree, and kneel upon the ground before the angel of water, and suffer the end of the stalk of the trailing gourd to enter your hinder parts, that the water may flow through all your bowels. Afterwards rest kneeling on the ground before the angel of water and pray to the living God that he will forgive you all your past sins, and pray the angel of water that he will free your body from every uncleanness and disease. Then let the water run out from your body, that it may carry away from within it all the unclean and evil-smelling things of Satan.”
While “Evil-Smelling Things Of Satan” may accurately describe some of your bathroom episodes, please take heart, for I will be giving you a far more pleasant version of a coffee enema than “suffering the end of the stalk of a trailing gourd to enter your hinder parts”. I think gourds are best left as perhaps a table decoration for a nice Thanksgiving day dinner, and not as something to jam into your backside.
Anyways, until about 1984, coffee enema procedures were listed in the Merck Manual – a handbook by physicians the world over, and Dr. Lawrence Wilson probably has the most extensive (although a bit wordy) treatise on coffee enemas that I've ever seen in his article “Coffee Enemas“.
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Why On Earth Would You Want To Do A Coffee Enema?
You're surrounded by toxins and pollution.
Take metals for example. As I discuss in my metal detox episode with Dr. David Minkoff, the current environmental levels of toxic compounds like lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic, aluminum nickel, uranium, beryllium, bismuth, antimony, zirconium, gadolinium, and tin are through the roof.
In addition, the laws of most nations permit the addition of over 3000 chemicals in our food, including pesticides, herbicides and over 100,000 other toxic chemicals. Prescription and over-the-counter drugs add over a thousand more toxic chemicals to our bodies, and the use of recreational drugs like cigarettes, second-hand cigarette smoke, heroin, cocaine, methamphetamines and cadmium-laden marijuana add even more toxicity to your already-burdened body.
Now I know that you, as an astute reader of BenGreenfieldFitness, are probably not walking around with a Marlboro hanging out of your mouth and a baggie of Ecstasy in your back pocket, but you still get exposed to the effects of other people using these compounds in the air you're breathing and the water you're drinking.
And these drug residues can remain in your body for decades. So the main reason for using a coffee enema would be to remove toxins from the body. In addition, coffee enemas can:
-Clean and heal the colon…
-Detoxify the liver…
-Reduce many types of chronic pain…
-Help eliminate many parasites…
-Help with depression, confusion, and general tension…
-Increase mental clarity and energy levels, while reducing moodiness or anger…
-And much more…
…as a matter of fact, in my research on enemas, I've discovered 17 different reasons that you may want to consider doing a coffee enema (many of these are expounded on in Dr. Wilson's Coffee Enema article).
1. Astringent action.
Astringency is an herbal property that refers to peeling the top layer of skin or mucous membrane. This is helpful for colonic healing, as the top layer of skin or mucous membrane is often ready to come off anyway, and can be loaded with toxins. So an enema is like cleaning the surface layer of the mucous membrane of the colon and perhaps the liver, as well.
2. Mechanical cleansing.
An enema mechanically washes out the colon, removing toxic substances, and often parasites, bacteria, yeast colonies, and other debris. Enemas also stimulate the colon slightly by dilating it, and by altering its temperature, either making it a little hotter or a little colder. Another mechanical effect is to increase peristalsis and cause the colon to become active, emptying its contents more completely. Repeated enemas can help remove impacted feces and food residues, which is common (certain foods like white, refined flour can turn hard in the colon and stick to its walls). Repeat enemas may also help clean out ‘pockets’ or diverticuli in the colon, which are slight expansions or dilations in the wall of the colon of most adults that trap food particles, bacteria and often harbor parasitic organisms such as worms, yeasts and others.
3. Antioxidant effects.
Singlet oxygen atoms cause oxidation in the body tissues. An example of oxidation occurs when you take a bite from an apple and the surface turns brown. This also occurs inside your bodies and is very damaging. Coffee contains antioxidant chemicals that prevent oxidation. These are particularly helpful for the liver, which is highly susceptible to oxidant damage. Unlike other antioxidants such as vitamin C, alpha lipoic acid and vitamin E, the antioxidants in coffee are far more “yang” in Chinese medical terminology. This is a great advantage because stressed bodies are already too yin and adding an excess of yin antioxidants can make the problem much worse.
4. Increased pH or alkalinity of the entire intestinal tract.
This is likely due to enhanced bile flow. Increasing the alkalinity of the small intestine makes it much less hospitable for parasites. It also helps destroy many other types of infections in the small and large intestines. This can help improve the quality of the flora of the intestines and reduce dysbiosis or improper bugs in the intestines.
5. Palmitic acids.
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, researchers in the lab of Lee Wattenberg identified salts of palmitic acids (kahweol and cafestol palmitate) in coffee. These act as potent enhancers of glutathione S-transferase which is an important enzyme in the liver. Glutathione S-transferase is part of a major detoxification system that catalyzes the binding of many toxins from the bloodstream to the sulfhydryl group of glutathione. Adding coffee beans to the diets of mice enhanced glutathione S-transferase 600% in the liver and 700% in the small bowel! Dr. Max Gerson, MD, a major proponent of the use of coffee enemas, writes that:
“Heubner and Meyer of Goettingen University, Germany had shown in animal models that rectal administration of caffeine would dilate bile ducts and promote bile flow. Theophylline and theobromine, major constituents of coffee, dilate blood vessels and counter inflammation of the gut. The palmitates of coffee enhance glutathione S-transferase, which is responsible for the removal of many toxins from the blood. Finally, the water in the enema stimulates peristalsis or the movement of toxic substances from the duodenum or upper intestine, through the intestine, and out through the rectum.”
6. Choleretic effects of caffeine.
Caffeine is a mild central nervous stimulant, but not as toxic as most stimulants. Its effects include dilation of the bile ducts. Coffee enemas can cause dilation of bile ducts, which facilitates excretion of toxic cancer breakdown products by the liver and dialysis of toxic products from blood across the colonic wall. This property of caffeine, when administered rectally, is called a “choleretic”. A choleretic is a substance that increases bile flow. While other agents classed as choleretics increase bile flow from the liver, most do little to enhance detoxifying enzyme systems, and they do not ensure the passage of bile from the intestines out the rectum. Bile is normally reabsorbed up to 9 or 10 times before working its way out the intestines in feces. The enzyme enhancing ability of the coffee enema is unique among choleretics. Because it does not allow as much reabsorption of toxic bile by the liver across the gut wall, it is a means of detoxifying the bloodstream through existing enzyme systems in the liver and small bowel.
7. Selenium and zinc.
Coffee contains forms of selenium and zinc that are very well absorbed through the rectum. This is a primary reason for the enzymatic activity of coffee upon liver detoxification pathways.
8. Chinese Meridian effect.
In acupuncture terms, coffee enemas enhance the liver meridian and balance the large intestine meridian. In the science of acupuncture, restoring health depends upon balancing about a dozen energy channels or meridians that run up and down the body. Introducing water and coffee into the colon weakens or inhibits the large intestine meridian. This tends to enhance the liver meridian, according to acupuncture theory. Commonly, the liver is weak and the large intestine meridian is overstimulated or overactive due to the presence of toxins in the large bowel. Even if it is not overactive, the effect of the coffee enema, in terms of acupuncture meridians, is to enhance the energy of the liver and gallbladder meridians.
9. Protection against toxins in coffee.
This is probably one you don't need to worry about if you drink Kion Coffee, but coffee can contain some toxic metals such as lead, cadmium, and some toxic alkaloids. Also, some ground coffees may contain polyunsaturated oils that can quickly become rancid. However, when taken by the rectum, these toxins are not absorbed nearly as much as when the coffee is taken orally. This occurs because the colon is designed to absorb nutrients while filtering out and leaving behind toxic substances inside the colon.
Coffee enemas are much, much different than drinking coffee. Your intestine has two circulatory systems. One system supplies your intestines with blood for maintenance of the intestinal tissues. The other system is called the portal system. It is a critical system that draws all of the absorbed nutrients from the intestines and sends them directly to the liver.
So when you eat food or drink coffee, it does not (despite common belief) go straight into the bloodstream. Only a tiny part of it does, particularly the nutrients that are absorbed in the mouth, esophagus, and stomach. All the rest of the nutrients go into your portal system and then go to the liver, not to the general bloodstream. So the nutrients are processed by your liver before entering the bloodstream.
But when coffee is introduced into your colon, it is absorbed directly into the liver through the colon wall. Coffee has a special affinity for the liver, and moving it there from the colon is very different than sending it to the liver by drinking it. When coffee is ingested by mouth, many of its herbal properties can be minimized.
10. Yang effect.
Most people’s bodies today are too yin, in Chinese medical terms, especially those who are old or sick. Yin means cold, expanded and today it also means ill. A problem with most medicines and natural remedies such as vitamins and herbs is that they make the body even more yin. In contrast, coffee is a more yang substance, even though it grows in tropical climates. It becomes much more yang when roasted thoroughly and boiled for 12-13 minutes only. This also gets rid of some of the caffeine, a yin substance (although some caffeine is necessary for the desired effects). The yang quality of coffee is a great advantage of this procedure over other herbal, natural and medical methods for cleansing the liver and colon. The yang effect is due to a combination of the nutritional factors in coffee, and its ability to remove yin toxins from the body such as toxic metals and toxic chemicals.
11. Sympathetic nervous system relaxation.
Coffee enemas help relax the sympathetic or fight-or-flight nervous system. This may seem odd, since coffee contains caffeine, which is a stimulant. Possible reasons for relaxation of the sympathetic nervous system include: 1) stimulation of two important parasympathetic organs, the liver and the large intestine, 2) nutrients in the coffee, 3) removal of irritating toxins from the body rapidly and thoroughly, and 4) the relaxing downward motion of energy.
12. Improved hydration.
While it may seem minor, this can be a major benefit of coffee enemas. Many people are dehydrated today. Common reasons for dehydration are 1) not drinking enough water, 2) drinking incorrect types of water such as reverse osmosis water, which does not hydrate the body well, and 3) ingesting substances that tend to dehydrate the body, such as sugars, processed sodium-rich packaged foods, caffeine and alcohol. The addition of several cups of water in the enema improves this situation.
13. Reduced autointoxication.
Autointoxication is a word used to describe the production of toxins within the body, usually due to the action of bacteria and yeasts upon partially digested food. Most are the result of fermentation or rotting (putrefaction) – and a lot of it occurs in people’s large intestines. This can cause gas, bloating and foul-smelling stools. By cleaning the colon of yeasts, parasites and other pathogenic organisms, and by increasing the bile flow, coffee enemas can reduce autointoxication.
14. Assisting the lymphatic system.
Coffee enemas can assist lymphatic drainage which occurs in something called “the Peyer’s patches”. These are extremely important lymph glands located along certain areas of the small intestine. Although the coffee solution does not reach this far, the coffee enema may assist the Peyer’s patches due to reflex effects.
15. Yeast and other parasite elimination from the colon.
This is a great benefit for some people whose colons are full of yeast. For this to occur, you need to do several coffee enemas back to back, putting in a total of about 2 quarts of water into the colon. When you do this, it helps to rub the colon area of the abdomen vigorously to get the water to penetrate into the pockets of the colon to dislodge the yeast organisms. Adding some crushed garlic to the enema coffee-water mix may help this a little by a chemical mechanism.
16. Better skin.
Your body must eliminate toxins somehow. If your colon is not working well, the body must use alternative elimination channels. One of these is the skin. This causes skin issues like dermatitis, acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Your skin must compensate for inadequate elimination through the liver and colon. Coffee enemas assist the skin by restoring elimination through the liver and colon.
17. Meditation
A coffee enema is really a form of quiet discipline and an intense meditation and concentration exercise. This may seem odd, but just lying down and holding your anal sphincter closed for 15 to 30 minutes is a form of concentration exercise that teaches discipline, relaxation, coordination and other mental traits that are helpful.
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Why Should You Use Kion Coffee In Your Enema
The last thing you want to do is inject toxic coffee up your butt, right?
I'm often asked what coffee I actually use for my weekly coffee enema. Here's the way I think about it: if I'm going to be shooting coffee up my ass, I might as well be doing it with the cleanest, purest, highest anti-oxidant coffee I can get. Makes sense, right?
You can use any regular, caffeinated, non-instant coffee for coffee enemas. But Dr. Wilson has some experienced suggestions from the trenches for the best coffee – and that influenced my decision to only use Kion Coffee beans for my coffee enemas.
1. A medium or dark roast is best.
Research in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research found that dark roast coffee restored blood levels of the antioxidants vitamin E and glutathione more effectively than light roast coffee. The dark roast also led to a significant body weight reduction in pre-obese volunteers, whereas the light roast did not. Other research shows that dark roast coffee produces more of a chemical called N-methylpyridinium. This chemical is produced during the roasting process, and the darker the roast, the more N-methylpyridinium it contains.
Caffeine levels vary depending on the degree of roasting of the coffee. Darker roasts often contain less caffeine than lighter roasts.
Some authorities suggest a light roast coffee, or golden coffee, which is often marketed “enema coffee”. But this type of coffee is much more yin, which (as you learned earlier) is not a good thing.
2. Mold-free coffee is best.
Most coffee beans are processed by either leaving them in the sun and elements to wither and dry, or by pressing them and letting them ferment (spoil) to remove the outer layer of the bean. Both of these techniques are known to produce significant levels of mycotoxins as they enhance flavor. Kion Coffee never contains mold. Ever. When searching for the freshest coffee possible, mold cannot be tolerated.
3. Organically grown coffee is best.
Let's face it: you don't want pesticides in your colon…do you? But most commercial coffees often have pesticides on them Kion Coffee is always organic. Less than 3% of coffee on the planet is certified organic. At Kion, we will never tolerate pesticide-soaked beans, or grow our coffee in fields that are doused with herbicides. We only choose the BEST coffees from the BEST organic, sustainable farms in the world, where we have a direct relationship with the farmer. The farms that grow Kion Coffee use production practices that are good for the planet, good for the coffee crop, and good for the people who grow the coffee, both economically and ecologically.
So that's why I shoot only the best of the best coffees up my butt….Kion Coffee beans
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What Is The Best Enema Equipment?
It's pretty obvious that it's important that anything you're inserting into your rectum should be clean, right?
I personally use this Stainless Steel Enema Kit, which consists of a clinically Hygienic Stainless Steel bucket, medical grade accessories and a clamp, and 10 extra latex-free sterilized tips.
Why not an enema bag? Not only are buckets better than enema bags because of the plastics and potential for bacterial contamination in bags, but since buckets are open at the top they can be thoroughly cleaned (you just need to be careful during your enema not to spill the bucket, since it is open at the top).
There are also enema bottles, which are inexpensive plastic bottles that have a removable top. These typically aren't for coffee enemas. They come filled with just salt water, and are designed for a single use enema to clean the colon, with none of the beneficial coffee effects. You could technically empty out the salt water and fill the bottle with coffee and use it for coffee enemas, but there's still the issue with the fact that you're risking leached plastics getting into your body. They also hold very little liquid (about 8 ounces) so you don't get much of a hydration or cleaning effect.
There are also costly colonic irrigation machines (over $1000) and these are not usually used at home for coffee enemas. Some colon therapists and physicians, however, may have them available in their offices to administer a coffee enema for you. The advantage of the machine is that it uses a thicker enema tip that allows water to flow in and flow out. This means that when you do your enema, you do not have to go to the toilet to empty out the coffee. I'd personally rather just save a grand and take a dump afterwards. Honestly, it feels pretty good anyways.
So in a nutshell, you pretty much just need this enema kit, some Kion Coffee, a bit of self-confidence with 30 minutes to spare.
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How Do You Do A Coffee Enema?
Alright, it's time to get down to the nitty-gritty. Literally. Especially the gritty part. Heh.
Step 1: Prepare your coffee
So it turns out that there are many ways via which you could prep your coffee, including using a standard coffeemaker, using a percolator, using a steam flash method using a soak (or non-boil method) or doing the boil-for-13-minutes method.
Since it seems most straightforward, I choose the boil-for-13-minutes method, but you can read about the other methods here. The boil-for-13-minutes method goes like this:
1. Put about 1/3 of a cup of water in a saucepan (I used a cast-iron skillet, and lately have been using more water – up to a quart – but for starters stick to 1/3 cup). Preferably use distilled water or Ice Age glacial spring water, although any spring water or even a clean tap water will do.
2. Add about ½ to two tablespoons of Kion Coffee, and bring it to a boil.
3. When the water and coffee boils, turn down the burner and allow it to simmer for 13 minutes. Then turn off the burner, move the pan to a cool burner, and add about one full cup of water or a little more. Adding the room temperature water will cool down your coffee so it is the right temperature. To test the temperature of the water, place a finger in it. It should be a comfortably warm temperature. If the water is too hot or very cold, retaining the enema will be more difficult, and let's face it: nobody wants boiling hot water shot up their butt.
Step 2: Put coffee into enema bucket
First, remove the coffee grounds from the liquid, if needed. You don't want grounds in your enema, trust me. Two ways to remove the coffee grounds are decanting or filtrating. To decant, pour the coffee liquid slowly into the enema bucket, and the grounds should stay behind. Alternatively, you can strain the coffee liquid through a fine strainer or coffee filter paper into the bucket.
Step 3: Get air out of the enema tube
Don't worry, the Stainless Steel Enema Kit I mentioned earlier comes with complete graphic instructions on how to make sure there's no fart-producing air in the tube, but basically you grasp, but do not close the clamp on the hose, you place the tip of the enema tube in the sink, you hold up the enema bucket slightly above the tip until the water begins to flow out, then as soon as it starts flowing, you quickly close the clamp. This expels any air in the tube.
Step 4: Lube up, baby
Lubricate the enema tip with a small amount of olive oil, coconut oil, Vaseline, love-making lube or any other handy slippery stuff you have around. (Note: Too much lubrication might cause the tip to fall out of the rectum, creating a mess. Experiment to see how much and what kind of lubrication is best for you).
Step 5: Poop
That's right – if possible, have a bowel movement before doing your enema. If you're constipated and that's the reason you're doing an enema, I realize you'll probably wait until after your enema. But if not, think about taking those 13 minutes during which the coffee is preparing, and take a dump. This can make it much easier to retain the enema. If you have difficulty having a bowel movement, you can:
-relax and focus on deep, easy breathing
-drink a glass of warm water
-rub the right calf area while sitting on the toilet
-rubbing and twisting the right pinky toe can cause a bowel movement.
-take a shot of apple cider vinegar
-take a scoop of Vitamin C mixed with a scoop Magnesium powder
If none of these work, you can do a quick plain tap water enema to clean the colon before your coffee enema.
Step 6: Let the fun begin
I'd recommend you use the bathtub, and simply lie on your left side in the bathtub or on the bathroom floor (lay some towels down if you need a soft surface), with the enema bucket on the edge of the bathtub, the edge of the bathroom counter or sitting on a chair, stool or toilet beside the tub.
With the clamp on the enema tube closed, insert the tip gently and slowly. Aim it straight upwards from the legs, not at any angle. If you're lying on your left side, keeping your left leg straight and bringing your right leg up towards your chest can help make the insertion easier. Twist or turn the enema tip gently as you insert it, as this can make it slide in much easier. Do this until it goes all the way in. The enema tip must go in at least two inches. Never leave it half way in – it will not work this way. There are two anal sphincters it must pass through, so the tip must be in this far.
Step 7: Let the coffee go in
Open the clamp. The coffee may take a few seconds to begin flowing. If it does not flow, you may gently squeeze the hose to get it to flow. If you develop a cramp as you are putting the coffee inside, close the hose clamp, turn from side to side and take a few deep breaths. The cramp will usually pass quickly.
Step 8: Relax
When all the coffee is inside you, you'll see the enema tube doesn't have coffee in it anymore. That's when you close the clamp. You can leave the enema tube inserted, or remove it slowly. If you have intestinal gas, definitely leave the enema tip inside of you and leave the clamp open. The gas will tend to flow out through the enema tip. Otherwise, you will not be able to hold the enema.
You'll want to just lie there for 15-30 minutes. During this time you can:
-Meditate.
-Massage your lower abdomen (rubbing the colon area may help break up deposits of impacted feces or even colonies of yeasts or parasites).
-Do infrared lamp therapy. While retaining your enema, you can shine a red heat lamp on your abdomen. If possible, set up the lamp so that it is about 2 feet away and shines down on your abdomen or chest.
–Listen to your favorite podcast.
–Keep your fingers crossed that your house does not catch on fire.
-Think about how much money you are saving by not buying a latte at Starbucks.
Step 9: Finish up
After 15 to 30 minutes (I go 30 minutes) or a little longer, go to the toilet and empty out the coffee. Yes, just poop it out. It comes out much, much easier than you'd think. Then wash the enema bucket, the tube and the tip thoroughly with soap and water, and leave them out to dry or hand-dry them with a towel or paper towel.
Boom.
Done.
Clean.
And by the way, it feels freaking amazing afterwards. Like you're “squeaky clean” down there.
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How Often Should You Do An Enema?
For an intensive detox protocol, you can do an enema at daily, and up to about four times each day. I've been doing one every two weeks, usually when I get back from a bunch of travel, or I've been stressed out, or I'm low on sleep, or I'm constipated.
And coffee enemas can indeed be something that you do as a lifelong protocol. Based on the amazing way that I feel afterwards, I probably will do just that.
Some health authorities warn that coffee enemas cause dependency and can damage the intestinal flora. But I've seen zero evidence of negative effects from them if they are done properly, and if you avoid doing something dumb like shoving a dirty tube into your backside or doing 10 coffee enemas over the span of a couple days you should be fine.
And of course, don't use toxic coffee.
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What Are Some Ways To Detox or Fix Constipation If You Don't Want An Enema?
Yes, yes, I do realize that a coffee enema may not be for everyone. Perhaps it's even illegal in your country. You may want to check the laws (I'm kidding…I think).
Anyways, inside the BenGreenfieldFitness Inner Circle, I have full instructions for both a 7 day and also a 30 day cleansing protocol. Neither of these protocols require enemas, although you could technically do enemas as part of the protocols.
But here are some other quick tips for you.
One extremely potent cleansing Ayurvedic herb that I've recently discovered is called “Triphala“. You can read about it in more detail in this “Wonders of Triphala” article, but it acts very similarly to a coffee enema in that it:
- Improves digestion
- Reduces serum cholesterol
- Improves circulation (potentiates adrenergic function)
- Contains 31% linoleic acid (excellent for weight loss)
- Exerts a marked cardioprotective effect
- Reduces high blood pressure
- Improves liver function
- Has proven anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties,
Interestingly, Triphala works well if it is combined with other chi, blood or yang-warming tonic Ayurvedic herbs such as ginseng for chi tonification, tang kuei for blood tonification and aconite for yang tonification. Since coffee enemas would also be considered “yang” inducing, Triphala would be a good one to combine with your enema protocol.
But wait, there's even more options for constipation and detoxification! In my podcast episode “How To Poop The Right Way“, I mention:
1. Colorectal Recovery Program – In the article I wrote about how to limit the damage from antibiotics, you learn how use of antibiotics can completely nuke the healthy bacterial terroir in your digestive tract. It turns out that in my fight with MRSA last year, during which I was forced into a high antibiotic dosing regimen, I did some pretty good damage to the good bacteria in my colon – to the point where I could barely even fart because there was really no bacteria “down there”. I was severely constipated for weeks and I searched desperately for a solution. With just 30 days of this Colorectal Recovery Program (designed by Dr. Konstantin Monastyrsky, who wrote the article about why too much fiber is bad) I was right as rain.
2. MagO7 – This is a blend of elemental magnesium from ozonated magnesium oxides, mixed with elemental potassium. My friend Drew Canole told me about it, I ordered some, and it’s turned out to be quite successful for a nice pooping experience. I've found it works for some people, and doesn't work for others, but for the folks who this this stuff works for, it has a potent stool softening effect when you take 4-5 capsules at night with a glass of water.
3. CapraCleanse – Even though I’m not a huge fan of the high amounts of fiber in CapraCleanse, and hence do not use it on a daily basis (click here to see why I limit high fiber supplements), this is the one supplement that I’ve found to make a big difference if I happen to be consuming moderately high amounts of alcohol – which typically happens to me in party situations about once every month or so. I just pop 3-4 before drinking and 3-4 after drinking, and it not only has a good liver cleansing effect, but also eliminates the inevitable constipation that can occur with high alcohol consumption (click here for more of my natural hangover cures). Capracleanse is also good for constipation that can occur during airline travel.
I go into greater detail on each of these fixes in the “How To Poop The Right Way” podcast episode with male model and pooping expert Troy Casey. It's worth a listen.
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Summary
So that's it!
Feel free to dump any of your comments, thoughts or feedback about Kion Coffee enemas, constipation, pooping, detoxing or anything else below.
And please flush afterwards.
hi hi
many thanks for your site. I’ve been doing coffee enemas for years, daily. Needed support for the liver, apparently. If i miss a day, i totally feel the difference. Are you concerned about electrolyte imbalance after an enema? I had been putting magnesium in the coffee, but magnesium citrate (which is recommended) does not dissolve well, and so, its hard to keep the tubing clean. Can i do magnesium oxide? Or… any other recommendations if, that is, you agree that something for electrolyte balance is needed?
Thanks, Ben!
That really helps.
I just wouldn’t recommend to a newbie using anywhere near 2 tablespoons of coffee, especially if they’re sensitive to caffeine. That could lead to strong detox reactions they might not even imagine they could have.
Cheers.
Hi Ben! I’ve been doing an enema each weekend for a few weeks now using 3 cups of coffee. But, I notice when I get towards that last cup, it just doesn’t want to keep flowing in…it just stops. Is that normal, should I keep the tip in and let it try to just slowly flow in more during the 20 minutes I lay there? Thanks for any tips!
Hey Ben! Any recommendations for what/when to eat on enema day? Thanks!
In my stainless steel enema kit, it suggested eating frruits, vegetable soups with cabbage, roughage seasonal veggies, liberal water intake and AVOID flour, alcohol, eggs and non-vegetarian foods, smoking
Not sure how backed up that is but it may be a good place to start. Unless you do it in the AM and have been intermittent fasting / last meal was last night’s dinner
Very interesting article. I’ve worked in coffee for a number of years but have never heard of boiling it for 12-13 minutes and can’t seem to find info on that method via google. Could you link some info to it? Always interested in improving my knowledge on coffee!
I currently brew using a cafetière, I like the high extraction achieved of the oils, results in fantastic body.
Ben, I heard that a binder in conjunction with the enema is a good idea. Actually before and after. What is your thought on that?
Thanks
Ben, I’ve been doing the coffee enemas with kion coffee for a few weeks now. I’m also curious on your thoughts of green (unroasted) coffee and if you think that would have an enhanced effect doing the enema
This is a good question to call into the podcast: https://speakpipe.com/bengreenfield
Did Ben ever answer this question on a podcast? If so, can someone reference which podcast?
Thanks
Hi, how long does the coffee last if your only using it for enemas? is it the date on the bag?
If you're using two tablespoons, you should have enough coffee to do about 30 enemas.
Hey Ben!
Long time fan, first time commenting. I’ve spent the last 18 months creating a super high quality glass enema kit. We just got FDA approved! We pack the kits here in Australia and send them around the world. I’d love to send you a kit. Thanks for everything you do.
I'm game: just email [email protected] to get address
The best part of waking up, is Folgers in your butt.
Ha!!! Nice. Well played sir 😁
Hey Ben, what’s the most effective protocol for coffee enemas and a (1-2 day) fast, before? after? both?
Why not mentioning the amount of water (or coffee) to be used. Just one bucket? Small one? big? What if you are a very big person, or too small? I find now enough technical accuracy in these directions.
It's there, under "How Do You Do A Coffee Enema?"
Hey Ben!
I do my coffee enema weekly and man do I feel amazing that day! My wife is breast feeding our 1 year old, and dose not have the best #2 situations, do you see any potential harm in her doing this?
Dr. Kelly Broman recommends that the enema tip be inserted 12 inches!! a full foot? what’s your take on that?
I’ve definitely done that. Not necessary but it may allow for a better cleanup of the colon.
Yo Ben,
In the Daily Routines PDF it still reads “Bulletproof Coffee Enema”.. Might want to switch it over to here.
Greetings
Thanks man.
Hey Ben! Glad to see this post is still around!
I got your suggested tools and I did the enema on Saturday with a good degree of success!
One thing isnt clear to me: it took maybe 20minutes or more for all the coffee to get into me.
Do i need to then hold the coffee in 15-30 minutes more from this point on? That could be like 50minutes total!
20 for all the coffee to enter and a 30 minute hold?
Thank you for your great work!
Best regards,
Raymond
Hold it 15-30 mins once it's all inside of you. 15 minutes should be fine.
Thank you Ben! Looking forward to doing this with Kion!!
This is dangerous, deaths from the administration of coffee enemas have been reported:
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abs…
What do you think of coffee suppositories instead of enema? That seems much easier but not sure if you get he sane benefits.
Thanks
Yeah that's completely different with completely different effects.
Different how so?
Discussed both options towards the end of this podcast: https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/coffeepod
You didn’t really “discuss” them, you just said that the coffee suppository did not provide the same benefits as the coffee enema, but you didn’t say why you have this opinion. Is it just their effects on you?
Is there some other physiological reason that you are aware of that would make the suppository inferior?
I would like to know more.
I am an old pro at coffee enemas and I am interested in branching into suppositories.
Refer to the sections "Astringent action" and "Mechanical cleansing." Those are two effects you won't get from a suppository. Again, suppositories are great for instances like traveling, but they don't hold a candle to enemas for the reasons I mentioned and more.
I am doing this enema for the last 10 years, am happy about it. Now i wanted to take coffee enema. Can I use the same type of equipments i mean enema can, cathetor, nozle etc with coffee liquid. And what the length of the nozle to be inserted into to the rectum. With water emema up to 30 cms i used to push the cathetor to penetrate inside the colon enabling the effective flushing.
Please let me know with coffee what would the lenth of the cathetor to go inside the colon. Please answer ASAP. Thanks
You are right, same as water.
Your post is completely perfect timing (God’s timing is always perfect)! I have been on GAPS for 8 months and I’ve been doing coffee enemas daily for 4 months. I am 28 and I have Hashimotos disease, yeast/bacterial infection for going on 2 years, food allergies and adrenal fatigue. I feel much benefit physically from the coffee enemas, but I was just about to quit because I cannot tolerate the caffeine. Many symptoms are relieved but they are replaced by headaches and irritability. I love to research but I’ve never seen anything about the phase 1 liver detox pathway before! This explains so much! It makes sense that my hypersensitivity to caffeine is a sign of toxicity. Thank you so much for providing this information! It’s really difficult being a mom to a 5 year old and a 3 year old and being so sick. I’ve just started following your blog and I am so encouraged; I especially love how you always point back to God’s faithfulness. He has been the one to get me through every day.
Hi Ben, what is your opinion on Green Tea Enemas? I Do them frequetnly and they also seem to release bile. (what comes out is deeply Black). Do they have comparable effects to coffee, in your opinion? I tolerate them much better than the coffee version. Thanks, Tobias
I have not personally done a green tea enema but the effects should be relatively comparable to caffeine/coffee in terms of peristalsis/bile release. I am not a doctor and this is not to be taken, interpreted or construed as medical advice. Please talk with a licensed medical professional about this. These are just my own personal thoughts and not a prescription or a diagnosis or any form of health care whatsoever.
How many consecutive daily enemas would one do when starting a detox? Daily for a week? 2 weeks? A month? Thanks for any clarification
I do one to two a month. Some people like to do once a week. But I am not a doctor and this is not to be taken, interpreted or construed as medical advice. Please talk with a licensed medical professional about this. These are just my own personal thoughts and not a prescription or a diagnosis or any form of health care whatsoever.
I’m doing a major health protocol and in the last 30 days I’ve done over 70 coffee enemas. Just a MAJOR help!
Was so weird at first. Totally skiddish when they said the tube should got 12 to 16″ deep. But now its a piece of cake!
You will get used to it!
I did my first coffee enema today with the stainless steel kit and bulletproof coffee. I used about 3 cups of distilled water and 2 Tbl of the coffee. Mostly all of it went in. I laid on my left side with rabbit pose for insertion. Nothing happened! Other than a very tiny watery stool, nothing! I deal with significant bloating but had it under control after testing for food sensitivities and modifying good foods that I couldn’t eat. It recently is out of control again. I have some constipation but had a bowel movement this morning. I have heard from reliable sources and professionals of the benefit from the coffee enema. I don’t know why I got no response.
You may want to check this out: https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/2012/04/why-you-…
Hi im in contraceptive pill and im doing coffee enemas for two weeks. Im afraid that i will get pregnant bec. The coffee enema will have an effect on my pills.. pls reply
I see no reason it would do this. But I am not a doctor and this is not to be taken, interpreted or construed as medical advice. Please talk with a licensed medical professional about this. These are just my own personal thoughts and not a prescription or a diagnosis or any form of health care whatsoever.
Thanks Ben!
Quick question about quantity. Normally one would do about 1-2l for a water enema, do you only use 500ml for a coffee enema? Or would it make more sense to dilute the 500ml into some more liquid just to get more liquid up there and a better flush out?
I use slightly smaller amounts because it's more comfortable for me. But you could use one to 2 L. I'd start with 500 though, if I were you.
Just a note, in regards to grassed butter up the rectum, that ayurveda, the (in my experience) very effective indian traditional healing system, ghee (clarified butter) is one of the most healing substances in the body. Additionally, butter is our culture’s not quite the same, but close equivalent. I am a fan of coffee enemas, but I feel that the energy we get form them is not due so much to the caffeine effect, but to the detoxification unload we undergo when we do them. We literally lighten our load and we feel better for it. Additionally, I speculate that a butter / oil coffee enema might actually be quite good for the system. In ayurveda, the recommended way to do enemas so that they are not too stripping (the very real danger of frequent enemas or any over cleansing technique) is to do half water and half oil (generally sesame). I beleiev is you find coffee enemas too harsh and stripping, adding oil would assist OR following your coffee eneam with a short oil and water enema could be quite beneficial and will work wonders for any constipation (for weeks after) not just in the immediate sense.
sorry for all the typos!
I am curious if you can clarify the correct side to lay on while doing the coffee enema. I see that your instructions say the right side is the correct position but I saw no response to the nurse above (sorry, lost the placement of her comment) who states that in her experience the proper side is the left side due to the curvature of the intestines. Which is believed to be correct?
Also, I learned to first use distilled water to cleanse the colon before using the coffee. I have been using store bought distilled water for this. What is your opinion on this first step? Thank you, Jeanne
I have never done the distilled water trick but it is good to empty bowels beforehand. Regarding the side to lie on, I would recommend the right side based on my own personal experience. I am not a medical doctor and nothing I say should be taken as medical advice.
Jane, the left side does follow colon shape for best filling for a regular enema (for emptying colon) but the hepatic veins are on the right side of colon so lying on the right side is where you get the benefits to be carried to the bile ducts for dilation.
What does it mean if after the enema, the liquid expelled is not brown but rather clear. Is that normal?
Weak coffee, perhaps. ;) That's actually pretty normal for it to be "light brown" or close to clear vs. coffee colored.
Hey,
Which one of the bulletproof coffees would you suggest starting with (the original, the mentalist dark roast, or the french kick dark roast)? Thanks
I'm a fan of medium roast or light roast because they tend to contain more caffeine. So that's what I'll go with…
Hi Ben.
I started the Budwig diet and have regular bowel movement like 2 per day. I decided to add coffee enemas to the protocol. However since i started the enemas, I don’t have bowel movements anymore except after an enema which i do just once a day. This is my first week. Have I become dependent? Worried!!!
Try biofeedback like this: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC30738… – that helps retrain nerves
I bought the exact stainless kit above but doesn’t come with a check valve, is it needed?
I'd highly recommend and if that's the one you bought it should!
Thanks Ben! The stainless kit linked above didn’t so had to buy one through PureLife on Amazon. About to try my first coffee enema this morning thanks to your blog and podcast!
I’ve been doing coffee enemas for about 4 years now. It’s such a great method of detoxification. A while back I had candida albicans and the coffee enemas are what ultimately cured me of that. My skin went through a purging phase and I had a bad acne breakout for a good 6 weeks. If this happens to you, tough it out. It will pass and you’ll be glad you did.
Hi Lucy,
It may well be a parasite, sorry but there is a real possibility.
Hi! I began doing coffee enemas daily starting around August or September last year and they totally changed my life! Unfortunately in the past month, however, I have developed this terrible globus sensation in my throat that becomes more extreme after the coffee enemas. I have experienced indigestion/heartburn and acid reflux at times as well. I have been forced to stop drinking/eating acidic foods (can’t tolerate them), not to mention swallowing anything in general is just uncomfortable, and of course I’ve stopped the daily enemas because they cause the globus sensation to get to the point that it feels suffocating! It’s extremely frustrating, and I don’t know what to do because other than this they have been so helpful to my overall health. I wonder what I am doing wrong, or if I should just stop them altogether for a long time? I have stopped them for days at a time, during which my throat seems to normalize, but after the enema it goes right back to feeling like I have something huge and suffocating stuck in it! Has anyone heard of this happening? I can’t find any information on a relationship between the two, and I’m somewhat desperate for any advice!
really tough to say without lab work… But I'd start here: https://greenfieldfitnesssystems.com/product/comp…
Add this to your comment list only if you care to. I am a retired nurse and gave numerous enemas. Liked your information but too many comments to read through all. Just an FYI. the correct side to lay on during the administration of an enema is the left side not right due ti the curve of the intestine. The right side actually helos digestion.
the left side does follow colon shape for best filling for a regular enema (for emptying colon) but the hepatic veins are on the right side of colon so lying on the right side is where you get the benefits to be carried to the bile ducts for dilation.
Okay, Ben, thanks. Love what you’re all about here!
Hi Ben,
Okay, here’s question.
I travel quite a bit.
Do you think it would be okay to use Starbuck’s Via Italian Roast..the instant packets that come in the tubes/individual packets. Kt’s as good as any brewed coffee out there Truly bodacious cup o’ java. But do you think it would be effective for an enema while travelling?
Of course, I’m a purist normally but his would make my life so much easier.
Thanks.
I personally would not shoot that kind of coffee up my butt. Choose organic, high-altitude, mold free, preferably as non-processed possible.
Hey,
This is GREAT! Just want to say thanks!
I found a whole lot of great info and I bought lots of from this blogger reccomendations:
http://enema-coffee.blogspot.com/
Is there anything more specific required when trying to detox from mold exposure?
Thank you
Absolutely. I'd check this out: https://chriskresser.com/how-to-test-your-home-fo…
Way to copy drlwilson.com coffee enemas article. I thought there would be some unique information on here……but I read drlwilsons site all the time. Looks like you copied everything from that article. Great job man!!!!!
Hi Ben! Awesome article, this helped me so much when beginning my coffee enema journey. I actually referenced you in my new Epic Irreverent Troubleshooting Guide to Coffee Enemas guest post as inspiration. I’d love for you to check it out here!
http://fearlessparent.org/the-epic-troubleshootin…
All the best!
Awesome, great article!
The bulletproof web states looks unsafe?
California Proposition 65 WARNING: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, or birth defects or other reproductive harm.
You could've at least wrote the information in your own words rather than cut and paste from someone else's article. #RespectLost
Seriously? Did you even read both articles? I fully cite and acknowledge any original portions of Dr. Wilsons' article.
Are coffee enemas safe for pregnant women to do (dealing with systemic candida at 2 1/2 months pregnant)?
I've seen zero evidence that this has been studied so I cannot with a good conscience say yes or no on this one. If anything, I'd consider a saline enema, not a caffeinated one.
Dr Wilson prescribes an almost identical method on his site but he is only boils his coffee for 12 minutes…
Hey,
I started doing coffee enemas last week and my stomach is bloated very badly. I look 3 months pregnant. Have you ever heard of this happening?
Thanks –
Megan
Usually when you're not fully voiding after the enema, this can happen. My top recommendation to you is to take your time on the toilet after and to read this: https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/2012/04/why-y…
This is probably a silly question but I see that the upgraded coffee comes as whole beans. Do you grind the beans before boiling them with the water?
Yes, you grind them first.
I suspect some people may be having problems with gall/liver stones if they start with a coffee enema. White/pale poop is a strong indication of bile blockage, and when they are coming out one tends to feel constipated. This is kind of a blind area of medicine where they know alot of people have asymptomatic gallstones, but they don’t do anything unless its giving you pain and then they cut the gallbladder out(and ignore the existence of liverstones which can be seen on autopsy). I followed some of the alt formulas for stone removal (high dose magnesium followed later by a large dose of olive oil) with surprising results. A friend of mine had actually had a large stone stuck in one of her bile ducts, and she chose to try the magnesium/olive oil treatment. She managed to pass a 2.8 cm stone confirmed with ultrasound before and after. So magnesium really does wonder for relaxing muscles both internally and externally.
Great work with the site, you’ve discovered some of the things I thought only I had figured out (grumble grumble grumble :).
I’m in my 50’s and feel that if my body were a plot of land it would be declared a toxic dump site.
I have dealt with constipation all my life – sometimes going as much as a week without a BM. I also have a lot of degenerative disease in my spine, hips and shoulders. I believe most of it is the result of stress and injury to my joints when I was younger.
Long story short, I take several meds now, including pain meds with acetaminophen. I want to stop and get healthy so I can live to be 90+. So far, in my parent’s generation, out of a total of seven siblings, only one has lived past the age of 75. Of the four female siblings, none has lived past 72 – with two dying in their 50’s. Prior to that, both sides of the family lived long lives – especially the women with several living well into their 80’s and 90’s.
I know it’s going to take s lot to cleanse my body and rebuild it and I don’t know where to start. I am the primary caregiver for my sister and I never know when she may need me to do something for her so I need to be functional most days.
Honestly, I am really scared that I will die young and so I know I need to make myself a priority . Can you offer me some guidance?
Thank you – Kate
Hi Kate,
First, I'm not a doctor and this shouldn't be taken as medical advice. It's great you are making the move to get healthy. The first place I would suggest to start would be doing a gut detox. You can read all about it here <a href="http:// :https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/2013/07/how-to-fix-your-gut/” target=”_blank”> <a href="http://:https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/2013/07/how-to-fix-your-gut/” target=”_blank”>:https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/2013/07/how-to-fix-your-gut/ and we also have a gut healing pack: https://greenfieldfitnesssystems.com/product/deto…
At the same time as your gut detox, I would suggest incorporating some gentle movement into your life, in the form of yoga. Yoga has been proven to reduce chronic spinal pain. You will find appropriate practices in Youtube, which you can do for free in your home. I have also written an article on the natural ways I heal my joints and bones, have a read through here: https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/2014/12/how-t…
Once you've completed the gut detox it will be time to re-evaluate your diet. Listen to this podcast: https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/2013/02/perfe… and read this blog: https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/2014/01/how-t…
If you need anymore information, feel free to book a private consult with me at by going here: https://greenfieldfitnesssystems.com/product/ben-… Once you have booked, we'll get you scheduled.
Thanks Ben for all this great info. Coffee enemas has been helping me a great deal with brainfog/headaches. Toxic feeling. Was even recommended by my integrative MD and other docs as well. Used to be a part of the Merck Manual. Aftee the enemas I feel really sore/inflamed down in lower pelvic colon region. Shedding mucus directly after and the next day or so, not much but some. Been told that can also be colonies of yeast or parasites?! Have you noticed this or heard of this? Maybe coffee is too much or too strong and just do water and see? Thankful for your input.
Depends on what you mean by "sore". If it's a sharp pain, that's not good. Look into diverticulitis for example. If a dull ache, that is sometimes common, just likely nerves affected by the tube/process. Mucus is completely normal. Some will say that is encrusted waste accumulated along the walls of the colon and that caffeine directly stimulates the peristaltic muscle to contract more powerfully and loosen such deposits, which are occasionally visible as hard, black material and "ropes" of mucus. I'm not convinced that's true, as colonic cell turnover generally doesn't allow for "crust". But just like your nose and mouth, your colon is full of – well – mucus! And just like blowing your nose hard, or doing a workout, or going swimming makes you spit and cough up mucus occasionally, same thing happens to your colon when you "swish and spit" from the backend.
Hi
I just read about coffee enema. It is new kind of enema to my knowledge. But it sound benefitial.
I have suffered constipation for as late as 1988 since about my thirteenth. My health has been complicated with every sorts of illness from bloating, gut ulcers to severe colds and lung diseases since then. The most deppressing thing about this constipation is it has been accompanied by weak odour. I sought medical aid for 3 decades of my life but in vain. I even aquired anema kid on the process to help my self but it has not helped. In 2013 i frequented the specialist to get to the bottom of it and after some period of medical examinations including stool tests the cause could not be found. Abnomenial scan showed had initially showed my my colon was extremely full. i dropped out after i waos instructed to ingest a type of husk fibre with pselinum. I showed i have tried these prducts before.
Anyaway my health is steal deteriorating. I am passing urine so frequently day and night of which i think overwork my kidneys. And also there could be highly autoxication going on in my body which could explain ailments i showed in the begging of this letter.
You would understand that in this condition one’s life is becomes a mess and poor in aspects of job, academics social life, family, financials etc. Even any form of prayers does no get answered. I even tried orietal/eastern moving meditations but failed.
I shall be trying enemas again. Hopefully coffee enema shall be exception. And i hope to write back as soon as i have tried it.
Thanks
Mohata
Distilled water will suck minerals out of your body as it itself is devoid of them, otherwise it wouldn’t be “distilled”.
Tap water contains chlorine which will kill gut bacteria.
Hi Ben. I just started doing coffee enema's about 2 weeks ago. I've done a total of 8 in 2 weeks. I'm mostly doing them because I want clear skin. I've suffered with acne for 14 years and was taking birth control to help with my acne. In November I realized how bad birth control was so I stopped taking it. Since I started the enema's, my acne is getting worse and now I have back acne as well. I've done a ton of research and it all states how the skin clears but I can't find anything about if acne can get worse before it gets better. I don't want to stop doing the enema's because I'm assuming that my skin is worse because I'm releasing toxins. Have you heard of this reaction before? Do you have any articles that could help me find more answers? Thank you so much!
Hi Ben,
I tried to complete my first coffee enema this morning. After inserting the tip the coffee would not flow into the colon. I tried unkinking the tube, lifting the bucket higher, etc. The insertion tip was all the way in; when I pulled the tip out it would begin to flow but as soon as I replace it in the anus the coffee contents will not flow into the colon. I was not able to have a BM before the enema. What do you think could be going wrong?
There are probably grounds stuck in the tube. #1 reason that happens. Next time use a coarse grind and ensure there are zero grounds. a percolater style coffee maker would work well for this.
HI Ben, 1st time post. Just wondering, I've had several hydrocolonics by certified individuals. You mentions lying in right side. These individual had me lie on my left side. The latter part of the colon comes from the left side.
Why do you recommend the right? Also, what are your credentials? Just so I know.
good article. I’ve done CE’s for a few years, but lately they don’t seem to “work”. I know my bile production is down because of how my stool is formed. What could be the reasons for an enema not working?
Thank you!
This can be due to many issues, including:
-not keeping enema in for long enough
-becoming dependent on the enemas by doing them too frequently
-SIBO (small intestine bacterial overgrowth) – in which case a prokinetic like ginger root or MotiPro can help (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004BD4MWY/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004BD4MWY&linkCode=as2&tag=bengree-20&linkId=QEX64Z4PYGMJALX7)
-changes in soft tissue integrity, meaning a need for foam roller, soft tissue work in hip/butt/hamstring/psoas region
…those are some of the avenues I'd pursue!
I am nursing a 3 month old. Is this fine for a nursing mom to do? I’m having some health issues and was sick pretty much my entire pregnancy with yeast related stuff and have recently changed my diet. But I feel like this might help. Thanks
At this point, I would not say that a coffee enema would not be advisable for a nursing mom, especially due to caffeine that winds up in your bloodstream. I have no clue the reasons behind any health issues you’re having but CANNOT recommend this for you!
After 20 years of alcoholism I recently quit drinking. I started coffee enemas a few days ago to relieve withdrawal symptoms but it turns out that after the enemas I feel even worse. Headache, nausea, depression. I've tried doing another coffee enema immediately after the first and also tried flushing my colon with water afterwards……still feel awful. Is it possible I'm too toxic for coffee enemas?
I've heard some nasty, nasty side effects from detoxing too quickly and it sounds like you are experiencing both alcohol withdrawal and detox symptoms combined. If it were ME, I'd get past the alcohol withdrawal symptoms with lots of clean water and food BEFORE starting into any kind of detox. Too much at once can be very stressful!
It is also possible that you have an allergy to coffee that’s causing the reactions you mentioned. Plain, warm, distilled water might be a good alternative. You can use a few drops of peppermint essential oil rubbed on your lower abdomen and/or bottoms of your feet to help with headaches and nausea. Also, the Gerson Therapy suggests using Chamomile tea in place of the coffee for an enema. You could look in to Milk Thistle and Schizandra herbs to help detox and repair the liver.
I’m going to give myself a enema today, I’ve been struggling with using the bathroom since I started a medication. When I go its very small pebbles! So for the past couple weeks my stomach hurts and I feel bloated and my stomach is hard to the touch. But I’m wondering if the coffee I got is fine, its a organic Kroger brand med/dark roast. Also I’m just kinda scared of doing a enema I don’t know if it’s just a guy thing or what! Thanks Drew
Don't be scared! Just make sure you let the coffee cool before you do it and you will be fine ;)
Great information!! I’ve been using them for over 2 years and have had great results. I currently have Lyme disease and treating naturally with homeopathic remedies and mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy so I need to detox a few times a day and use coffee as my go to detox. Most people using MHBOT have to start very slow because of the herx reaction from the bacteria die off. After just two weeks I was able to move up to 2 sessions a day using the coffee detox as a way to clear my system of toxins. I wish more would just try one, they would be hooked. Keep spreading the good news!!
I have done 2 coffee enema on the same day. I felt very positive about the results yet I have not had a bowel movement since. I’m going on day 5. WHAT IS THIS?
I have no clue HOW you did these enemas, but sometimes this can happen if you don't keep it inside you long enough and it can also happen if you mentally become "scared" of pooping after. I recommend 1) Do another enema and keep it in for 15-20 min then 2) get really, really relaxed before you venture into the bathroom to go the next time after that. Try deep breathing and even some of these poses: http://www.artofliving.org/yoga/health-and-wellne…
How can this process work after colectomy removal of large colon
I'm not sure enemas would be indicated in the case of a colectomy. PLEASE talk to your doctor about this question!
How come you recommend only about 1.3 cups of water for coffee enema, whereas typically enemas require about a quart?
You don't need much for starters but I have gradually been increasing my amount and am probably indeed close to about a quart at this point…
That makes sense. Thanks for the response, great article!
Hi Im new to this but as I'm in a real heavy detox program right now and having the dteox symptoms from hell (headache like newer before in my life) I'm trying to do coffee enemas in order to relief this symptoms, will that work you think? Also I do not have access to a stove or any such thing so Im cold brewing the coffee (letting it sit with cold water 14 hours) – is that ok??
I get an almost coffee like taste in the back of my mouth ….. can it be coffee or is it bile being released or????
Please help me!!!!
Regards Foodieboy
You may want to look into other methods of detox too. Check out https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/2012/12/heavy… and https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/2014/01/most-… enemas will only get you so far. Cold brewing should work but make sure the water has either been boiled previously or is distilled.
Guess im not being clear enough, this is a part of a week long program of detox at wellness resort, I'm just adding the coffee enemas myself on top of the treatments here ….
Yes, it's pretty common to be able to taste in your mouth what you put in your butt. Sorry to be crass, but it's true.
That is not crass, thats answering my question honestly, thank you!
Do you know if cold brewing works as well?
I haven't seen any research on cold brewing, but it SHOULD work and potentially be less acidic.
Oh thanks for the share
Ben, Drew Canole? Who don't you know? Does he still believe blending is better than juicing? That's meant as a joke, but is no joke to the Green Smoothie Girl. Fighting words.
Anyone have any experience with SOLESTA? While I would not say that I have major issues with FI, I do have chronic seepage issues that seriously impact my quality of life.
Seepage issues are usually pancreating or enzyme dysfunction. I wouldn't use SOLESTA. I'd use enzymes like this: https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/enzymes
Great info! Wondering if I would have comparable results if I used a good green tea. Tragically, my recent food sensitivity test shows that I'm allergic to coffee. :-(
You can try coffee as allergic reaction to coffee often is not an issue with enema. Otherwise, just use warm water!
What is being too yin? What is yang? They are in relation to one another and therefore are relative. What do you mean by these terms?
Pretty long explanation for a blog comment, but the best resource I can point you towards is this: http://www.sacredlotus.com/diagnosis/yinyang_tabl…
I watched a doco on the Gerson method, which uses this protocol, along with some others, to reverse patients with terminal cancer. pretty wondrous stuff
Hey Ben,
Love this, couple of questions. 1/. Is it easy to find a commercial company that does coffee enema's? The idea of doing it at home doesn't appeal. (I appreciate you may not be able to comment directly on the UK where I live) 2/. I am very sensitive to caffeine, would you recommend doing this decaf or caffeinated. One cup of coffee will give me a headache, he shakes and make my heart race.
Thanks again
Yes, many naturopaths have colonic irrigation machines, although it's very, very, very easy to do yourself. Seriously. Also, if you're sensitive to caffeine, start with water, then decaf, then try coffee. Many people who don't drink (caffeinated) coffee orally do fine with enema version.
Thanks ben!. Can you address the reasons why enemas have gone out of fashion. Also what are the sources of the research and benefits mentioned above. I have for example heard that there are doubts whether enemas mess up your gut biome.
All The best – jurjen
They've probably gone out of fashion because of modern medicine's denial that cleansing or flushing the body is a smart preventive health move. Increased pH or alkalinity of the intestinal tract can help improve the quality of the flora of the intestines and reduce dysbiosis or "bad bugs" in the gut.