The technique in which the drink is injected through the rectum with the promise of cleansing the intestines has no scientific evidence or safe indications for use
A dangerous practice is being strengthened means of social communication (and outside of them): the enema of coffeeprocedure in which the drink is injected through the rectum with the aim of “cleaning” it. intestine. With more than 44 thousand publications marked with the hashtag #enema on Instagram, the technique is promoted in videos and profiles promising weight loss, improved digestion, reduced inflammation, relief from Painimproves mood and even cures Cancer. But be careful: there is no scientific evidence to support these claims and the health risks are real.
“In fact, it is even difficult to find relevant information on the topic, since scientific evidence is rare and of low scientific level,” explains clinical oncologist Ana Paula Garcia Cardoso, of the Einstein Hospital Israelita. The practice is nothing new: it is part of the so-called “Gerson therapy”, created in the 1930s by the German doctor Max Gerson, who emigrated to the United States. He advocated a vegetarian diet combined with vitamin supplements and enemas, including coffee enemas, with the idea of cleansing the liver and strengthening the immune system.
“It is an empirical theory, based on observation, without any scientific evidence, reproducibility or consistency,” says Cardoso. The idea of “detoxifying” the body and preventing serious diseases, such as cancer, still persists today, especially on social media. “Personal stories and simplified promises deceive people and tend to go viral,” warns the doctor.
What are the risks?
There are no studies that demonstrate the benefits of the coffee enema for intestinal cleansing or detoxifying the body. On the other hand, the risks can be serious. Immediate effects include colic, pain, urgency to have a bowel movement, diarrhea and bleeding, as well as rectal burns and dehydration. Frequent or inappropriate use can also cause inflammation of the intestinal mucosa, electrolyte alterations, palpitations and anxiety due to caffeine absorption.
In more serious cases, intestinal perforation and generalized infections may occur. People with inflammatory bowel disease, hemorrhoids, fissures, immunosuppressed people or who have undergone colon or rectal surgery are even more exposed to risks.
“This type of practice leads people to believe that there is a simple and natural alternative treatment capable of curing serious diseases, which is not true. The coffee enema has no recognized medical indication for the prevention or treatment of any disease”, underlines the specialist.
In September last year, the Regional Council of Medicine of São Paulo (Cremesp) posted a notice on social media about the risks of the coffee enema, calling the practice “quackery” and highlighting that the procedure has no scientific evidence.
Healthy intestine
For those who want to improve digestion and intestinal health, the ideal is to contact a specialist doctor. Furthermore, it is good to adopt habits such as eating foods richer in fiber; reduce consumption meat red and fats of animal origin; drink the ideal amount of water for you and practice physical activity.
It’s also prudent to remain attentive to what you see on social media. Be wary of “natural” cures and miracle promises. If in doubt, talk to your doctor. “A lie repeated countless times does not become true. It gains followers on the networks, but many followers are not proof that a theory or a cure works. Unfortunately, this perpetuates the fantasy and can cost lives,” warns the oncologist.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
