Detoxification will not only fail to cure the intestines but also cause black intestines, be careful with these things!

Chinese people are keen on "detoxification". It seems that various health problems such as poor sleep, dull complexion, hair loss, obesity, anxiety, indigestion, etc. can be solved by "detoxification".

There are a lot of "detoxification" products on the market, among which "intestinal cleansing" and "stool cleansing" products are particularly popular among middle-aged and elderly people. Some products are very effective and can solve the problem of constipation immediately.

Recently, the media reported a case in which 56-year-old Ms. Huang, who was often constipated, bought "intestinal cleansing tea" on her own after being introduced by someone. However, she went to the hospital for a colonoscopy some time later and found that her intestines were all black.

The doctor's words made her even more worried, because "colon melanosis" increases the risk of colorectal cancer. What's going on? Is the "intestinal cleansing tea" poisonous?

In fact, the phenomenon of colon melanosis was discovered by scientists as early as 1835. In 1928, scientists first proposed that "anthraquinone drugs" were related to it.

At present, long-term oral laxative use is recognized as the main cause of colon melanosis, and more than 70% of colon melanosis is related to the abuse of anthraquinone laxatives.

Anthraquinones are commonly found in rhubarb, aloe vera, senna leaves, cassia seeds, and Chinese patent medicines such as Niuhuang Jiedu Tablets, Sanhuang Tablets, and Maren Pills.

Anthraquinones are strong stimulants to the intestines, so they have a good laxative effect. They are also cheap and easy to buy. Who doesn’t like them? However, have you ever asked your large intestine how it feels when you are having such an exciting time?

The intestinal epithelial cells cannot withstand the torment and a large number of them "die". Macrophages rush over to "collect the bodies". They engulf and digest the dead cells, and finally produce pigments such as "lipofuscin".

These pigments first form spots on the intestinal wall. If there are enough spots, the intestinal wall will turn black. This is the basic principle of coli melanosis.

According to scientific research results, colon melanosis can occur as soon as one month after taking anthraquinone laxatives. For people who take the medicine intermittently, the incidence of colon melanosis is about 10%. For people who take the medicine continuously, the incidence of colon melanosis can reach about 80%.

In addition, clinical studies have shown that colon melanosis can significantly increase the risk of intestinal polyps and colon cancer. Of course, you don't have to worry too much, as colon melanosis caused by anthraquinone is reversible and can gradually return to normal after stopping the use of laxatives.

In fact, using laxatives to relieve or treat constipation is only a stopgap measure. The intestines will gradually adapt to the stimulation of anthraquinone and become dependent on it, requiring continuous increases in dosage, forming a vicious cycle. The correct approach is:

1. Eat a healthy diet, especially rich fruits and vegetables, whole grains, potatoes, beans and other foods rich in dietary fiber. People who diet to lose weight are prone to constipation.

2. Drink enough water, especially for people who sweat a lot during strenuous physical activities and those who sit for a long time due to stressful work and drink little water.

3. Increasing exercise can enhance digestive and metabolic capabilities and promote intestinal activity.