Are Coffee Enemas Good for You? What You Should Know

Have you ever heard about coffee enemas? If not, let's discuss it in detail. We all know about coffee and its amazing health benefits. It is the most popular beverage used worldwide. 

Coffee is one of the most beloved drinks, and it’s the best thing about mornings. There is a trending, unconventional way to enjoy your coffee, known as a coffee enema. But before discussing coffee enemas, let's break it down. I want you to gain a thorough understanding of this amazing technique.

A coffee enema is a combination of two elements: coffee + enema. Everyone is aware of coffee, and people use it for its stimulating properties. But do you know what an enema is? The Greek word "enienai," meaning "to send in" or "inject," derives from the word enema. It is a medical procedure. It involves using a liquid in the colon to cleanse the body or stimulate a bowel movement. Since ancient times, practitioners have used it to treat constipation and related conditions. There are different types of liquids used for enemas: one of the many types of liquids used is coffee enema. 

Let's explore what is coffee enema. Where does it come from? What are its benefits? And is it good for you? 

What is Coffee Enema?

As the name suggests, in coffee enema we use coffee instead of a saline solution. Coffee contains cafestol and kahweol, which may assist in boosting glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity. It is an antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals. Free radicals are absorbed by the –SH groups of GSH in the bile, converting into bile salts. These bile salts are then flushed from the gallbladder into the intestines and excreted through the colon, helping to detoxify the body.

How to Do a Coffee Enema?

Step 1- Make the Coffee: Take three tablespoons of roasted organic coffee and add in 1 litre of boiling water. After 3 minutes of boiling, the mixture should simmer for 15 minutes. Once cooled and filtered, add water to compensate for the evaporation until the volume is approximately 900 mL.

Step 2- Prepare the Equipment: Take one enema kit, which includes a bag or bucket for the coffee and a tube to insert it into your body. A tube less than 45 cm above the body should be used and slowly transfer the solution in a tube. 

Step 3- Take a comfortable position:  Lie down and relax in a comfortable position, often on your side. Then gently insert the tube into your rectum. 

Step 4- Slowly Release the Coffee: Let the coffee flow into your colon. Hold it for about 10-15 minutes, then release. 

Step 5- Clean Up: The last step is to clean all the equipment thoroughly and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

How to do a coffee enema?

During the procedure of coffee enema, a mixture of coffee and water is passed through the rectum into the colon. It is done for a brief period of time. It may help cleanse your digestive tract, “detoxify” the body and improve your overall health. 

A Brief History Behind Coffee Enema

Coffee enema was first introduced and developed by Dr Max Gerson in the 1930s. This technique originated and is known as Gerson therapy.  Dr. Max Gerson believed that coffee enemas may help improve detoxification. Over the decades, coffee enemas have been used for alternative health practices, but what are they really good for? In this blog, we will discuss in detail the science behind coffee enema and explore their potential benefits.

What are the benefits of coffee enema?

  • May helps improve bowel clarity: A pilot study was carried out in 2014 to examine the viability and impact of using coffee enema to prepare the small intestine for video capsule endoscopy (VCE). One of the reasons for inadequate small bowel preparation during a VCE is secreted bile. According to a study, coffee enema may help improve small bowel preparation for VCE [1]. 

  • Antioxidant properties: Coffee, the most loved beverage contains cafestol and kahweol, which may assist in boosting glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity. It is an antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals. Because of its potential to treat health benefits it is used in enemas also. These antioxidants may help combat oxidative stress in the body. It also contains phenolic compounds such as chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid that may help eliminate toxins.

  • Liver detoxification: Do you know? What does liver detoxification do to the body? Liver detoxification helps the body by cleansing the liver of toxins and waste products, improving its ability to process and eliminate harmful substances. A study published in 2004 by Jong lee suggests that coffee enema may help the body to detoxify by releasing bile and toxins. It may also help in reducing pain by clearing out these harmful substances [2].

  • Eliminate toxins: Do you know what toxins in the body do? Toxins can damage cells, impair organ function, and lead to chronic health issues, so it's crucial to remove them to maintain overall health. Coffee contains antioxidant properties. It may increase bile production and may encourage the release of toxins from the liver. It may also improve overall health.

Are Coffee Enemas Really Good For You?

Nowadays, coffee enemas have gained popularity. But the question is are coffee enemas really good for you? Well some people believe that coffee enema may help improve detoxification. It is also mentioned in some pilot studies as discussed above. Dr. Gerson even included them in his research and highlighting their potential health benefits. However, more research is needed to fully understand how effective coffee enemas really are. If you’re thinking about trying one, especially for a specific health issue, it’s always a good idea to consult your doctor first. They can provide better guidance to your personal health needs.

Conclusion

Enemas have been used by our ancestors for centuries, and today, coffee enemas are one of the more common variations. This method has gained popularity in recent years due to its potential health benefits, including detoxification. However, as with any health procedure, it’s important to approach any health supplements only after careful consideration. And for more helpful tips on wellness and health, don’t forget to check back with Wellness Extract!

Disclaimer: The above information provided is written for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

References:

  1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7478478/

  2. https://koreascience.kr/article/JAKO200403039814862.pdf


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Annatto Extract: Nature’s Colorful Magic With Exceptional Health Potential

Annatto extract has always been the go-to natural color dye! Lately, however, it has also been discovered to have potential health benefits. What's there in annatto that makes it a powerful remedy?

Annatto, Bixa orellana, also known as achiote, is a flowering shrub native to Central America. For centuries, annatto and its extract have been treasured for its deep red color. Ancient people used annatto in body painting and even as an insect repellant. It is also used as a food dye and even as a flavoring agent in Latin and Caribbean dishes.

The best part is that, unlike other coloring or flavoring agents, it doesn't have any side effects. However, it's no longer just a color or flavor! The innovation in science and technology has decoded the hidden health potential of annatto and its extract.

Here is a detailed blog about the annatto extract and its uses!

A Quick Introduction to the Annatto Plant and Its Extract

Before exploring the constituents of the annatto extract, let's quickly build an understanding of the plant itself.

For the first time, annatto was noticed by Spanish explorer Francisco de Orellana around the Amazon River in the late 1500s. It is an evergreen shrub that can reach up to 6-10m under ideal conditions. The plant bears white and pink flowers, resembling wild roses. But that's not the signature characteristic of the plant.

The reddish-brown fruits covered in spikes are the center of attention in annatto, which contains 10-50 tiny seeds. These seeds are packed with vibrant pigments, giving them a striking red-orange hue. Ancient indigenous civilizations, like the Aztecs, used annatto to extract red dye for food and fun. Later, its extract was also used in the preparation of lipstick, from which annatto got another popular name: lipstick tree.

How to Prepare Annatto Extract

Annatto extract comes from the seeds of Bixa orellana. It is made by steeping the seeds in oil or ground into a powder. The DIY method includes grinding annatto seeds into fine powder. But, when produced on a commercial scale, it is prepared after removing the pigment from the outer layers of the seeds. While the primary use of extract is to add color and aroma to food, it also holds medicinal benefits. In traditional medicines, annatto extract has been helpful in wound healing and inflammation reduction.

Properties of Annatto Extract

Based on the extraction process, the powder carries a certain physical and chemical composition.

Physical Properties

Annatto extract is biodegradable, non-toxic, and heat stable with a melting point of 190 °C. Its properties and vibrant yellow-orange color remain stable under heat and oxidation but may degrade at temperatures above 125°C.

Chemical Constituents

However, the magic and versatility of annatto extract lies in its chemical composition, which includes.

  • Carotenoids: Bixin and norbixin are the primary pigments of annatto extract, which are also responsible for its color and solubility. While bixin is fat-soluble, norbixin holds water-soluble properties. Additionally, the greater the norbixin, the deeper the yellow hue, and the bixin gives it a distinguished orange color.
  • Antioxidants Vitamin E Tocotrienols: Now, here comes the king constituent of annatto that offers surprising health benefits. Annatto seeds contain the highest percentage of delta tocotrienols, the most potent Vitamin E form. Tocotrienols may help with gut health, anticancer therapy, managing cholesterol levels, and much more. It is a powerful antioxidant that inhibits oxidative stress, maintaining cellular health.
  • Geranylgeraniol (GG): Annatto seeds also contain a significant amount of geranylgeraniol (GG). Geranylgeraniol (GG) is an endogenous compound, biosynthesized in the mevalonate pathway. Preliminary studies suggest that it facilitates the production of crucial coenzymes, including ubiquinone (CoQ10) and menaquinone.
Discovery of tocotrienols from Annatto

Present-Day Uses of Annatto Extract

Annatto extract is used in food, nutrition, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals in the following ways:

In Food Industry

Annatto is a popular food coloring agent with no adverse health effects. You might be amazed to know that 70% of all natural food coloring comes from annatto. It can deliver intense yellow or orange color. That's why it is used to color edibles, including cheese, butter, cakes, baked goods, meat, and ice cream. Further, annatto extract has a distinguished sweet, peppery taste and is used in different cuisines.

In Cosmetics Industry

FDA permits the use of annatto for personal care products. It is used as a coloring agent in makeup and cosmetic products. It delivers the desired color to lipsticks, nail paints, eye shadows, and even hair dyes.

In Health and Wellness

Now, that's the most interesting use of annatto extract. With successful research and studies, annatto extract is used nowadays to make health supplements. One of the most common examples is annatto-derived vitamin E tocotrienols, which support bone, heart, and body's metabolism.

In Medical Field

Even in the medical field, annatto-based products are used along with certain drugs. It works synergically with the principal drug, suppressing its adverse pharmacological effect. For instance, geranylgeraniol supplementation when taken with statin drugs has potential to reverse its side effects. Statin is a cardiovascular drug that indiscriminately reduces cholesterol levels, resulting in vitamin K and CoQ10 deficiency. Additionally, it shows significant anti-inflammatory actions. It may also have antibacterial and anticancer benefits.

Uses of Annatto Extract

What Does the Future Promise

Though present uses of annatto extract are limited, the future holds endless possibilities. Numerous studies highlight the health potential of annatto and its extract. Here is a quick summary:

Anticancer Properties

Test-tube studies highlight that annatto extract may suppress cancer stem cells, slowing down the tumor. The potential anticancer properties are linked to the presence of carotenoids and tocotrienols. Studies have found that annatto can improve fatal conditions in prostate, ovarian, and liver cancer.

Optical Advantages

Annatto extract contains a significant amount of norbixin, which is linked with improved vision. In an animal study, supplementing rats with norbixin for 3 months noticed a reduced accumulation of the compound N-retinylidene-N-retinylethanolamine. The compound is directly linked to age-related irreversible blindness.

Antioxidant Properties

The presence of high free radicals in the body is often related to chronic conditions like cancer, stroke, Alzheimer's, or tumors. Thus, antioxidation is an essential biological process for optimal cell growth. With an abundance of tocotrienols, annatto can resist oxidative stress, neutralizing free radicals.

Anti-inflammatory Action

Research suggests that annatto may block the inflammatory actions of bradykinin and nitric oxide. Even a preclinical study highlighted that annatto extract brings down allergies or swelling. However, proper human research is still required to explore the benefits thoroughly.

Cardiovascular Benefits

Annatto extract is a good source of vitamin E tocotrienols. Tocotrienols react with LDL cholesterol, removing them from the bloodstream. Not only that, in scientific studies, norbixin has significantly increased HDL cholesterol. Thus, by maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, annatto may improve overall cardiovascular health.

Antimicrobial Effects

In test tube studies, annatto extract has shown antimicrobial properties. It inhibits the growth of certain bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. That's how it can also indirectly contribute to overall gut health. Another interesting study found that pork patties with annatto powder suppress microbe growth compared to untreated patties. However, we still need large scale studies to confirm the accurate mechanism and functioning.

Alternative to Annatto Extract

Apart from extract, annatto comes in different forms, and each one has its own uses.

  • Annatto Seeds: Annatto seeds are the direct part of the plant. They are rich in antioxidant and carotenoid content and are directly used by the pharma and wellness industry.

  • Annatto Paste: Annatto paste is the grounded version of the seeds. It is often mixed with other herbs and spices like cumin and coriander. Annatto paste is an active ingredient in Mexican, Central American, and Caribbean dishes.

  • Annatto Oil: Annatto oil can add an appetizing orange-red color to meals. It is prepared by cooking annatto seeds in edible vegetable oils, like olive, corn, or canola.

  • Annatto Powder: It is simply the powder of annatto seeds that is used in the food industry. Besides, annatto powder is also an active ingredient for dyes, paint, and cosmetics.
How to add annatto in your regime

How to Take Annatto Extract Supplements?

Well, the good news is that there are GRAS-certified annatto rich supplements available in the market, that you can take as Vitamin E antioxidants. You can prefer soft gel capsule form for easy administration. The supplements fulfills the optimal requirement of Vitamin E, that normal diet often lacks.

Are There Any Alternatives to Annatto Extract?

Paprika, chili powder, harissa, and Sazón seasoning are a few alternatives to annatto extract. However, there is another drawback: this option can replace annatto flavor and color but doesn't have its medical properties.

Associated Side Effects of Annatto Extract

There is not as such significant adverse effects of annatto extract. However, a few individuals complain about stomach pain, itchiness, swelling, low blood pressure, and hives.

Quick Recap

Annatto extract, made from annatto or achiote tree, is a multipurpose ingredient. Indigenous tribes have been using annatto for centuries as a food ingredient, cosmetic, dye, and medicine. The recent research in science and wellness has reflected its potential health properties. Over time, it will be interesting to observe how annatto and its extract can revolutionize humankind.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been assessed by the FDA. The information contained within this page is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the advice or attention of health care professionals.

Key Takeaways

  • Annatto's red-yellow color is due to the presence of carotenoid, which is protected with tocotrienols, the most potent form of Vitamin E.

  • With its deep yellow-red hue, annatto is the primary source of up to 70% natural food dyes.

  • Annatto-derived tocotrienols may support heart health, bone health, cholesterol management, and gut health.

  • Annatto is a rare source of geranylgeraniol (GG), an essential compound in the body's biosynthesis of coenzymes.

  • Approved by the FDA, annatto extract is a safe and effective natural colorant for cosmetics like lipsticks, nail polishes, etc.

References Used:

  1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4856788/
  2. https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Annatto
  3. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/annatto
  4. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4094728/
  5. https://cool.culturalheritage.org/coolaic/sg/bpg/annual/v16/bp16-05.html
  6. https://mastergardener.extension.wisc.edu/files/2018/10/Bixa_orellana.pdf
  7. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844024096774
  8. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5430180/
  9. https://nelsonjameson.com/blog/post/annatto-a-natural-color-solution
  10. https://www.cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/annatto/
  11. https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-ingredient-names/color-additives-permitted-use-cosmetics
  12. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36296960/
  13. https://barrietan.com/why-tocotrienol/research-behind-tocotrienol/
  14. https://cancerci.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12935-019-0876-0
  15. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5161507/
  16. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7185133/
  17. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3249911/
  18. https://iubmb.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/biof.1873
  19. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12176086/
  20. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0308814601003636
  21. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3929283/
  22. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12801012/
  23. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2221169112605139
  24. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12842184/

 

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Does Your Air Contain Environmental Toxins that Can Potentially Increase Cancer Risk?

The disease does not Discriminate Between Rich & Poor.

You may have come across news highlighting how even wealthy individuals with access to excellent healthcare at their disposal can face health challenges like cancer. It’s worth asking: Why do even those with access to the best food & healthcare have to face health challenges like cancer?

These real life instances have pressured us to rethink about the reality of lifestyle choices & the environment we are surrounded with. 

Question yourself why the news of someone suffering from cancer was not so common 5 or 6 decades ago. The possible answer could be that in those times, the food they ate was chemical-free, the air they took in was toxin-free, & also they were more physically active.

However, the answer is not so simple: cancer is complex, with many contributing factors, & one significant aspect can be environmental toxins. Regardless of how much wealth or status one has, we all inhale the same air (thanks to nature for this equal access), exposing us to similar environmental risks.

It’s important to note, though, that this is just a theory & not a sure sort of conclusion. Always seek or listen to healthcare professionals before coming to your own conclusions. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into this topic, exploring the vital question: Is the Environment You’re breathing in Putting You at Risk for Cancer?

What are Environmental Toxins? Do they have the Potential to Cause Cancer Risk?

As per studies, environmental toxins are substances or organisms that have the tendency to negatively impact human health. They may include disease-causing organisms, physical elements that could interfere with biological processes, and toxic chemicals and chemical compounds. Exposure to environmental contaminants may be associated with array of health effects. Some carcinogens & chemicals have been studied for their potential impact on the respiratory, endocrine, & cardiovascular (CVS) systems.

The following chemicals have been identified as known human carcinogens by the National Toxicology Program (NTP) in its 15th Report on Carcinogens. However, it is important to keep in mind that just because a material has been classified as a carcinogen does not guarantee that it will cause cancer. 

Examples of Environmental Carcinogens Identified in Research:

  • Aflatoxins & Aristolochic Acids

  • Arsenic & Asbestos

  • Benzene & Benzidine

  • Coke-Oven Emissions

  • Crystalline Silica (respirable size)

  • Erionite & Ethylene Oxide

  • Formaldehyde & Hexavalent Chromium Compounds

  • Indoor Emissions from the Household Combustion of Coal

  • Mineral Oils: Untreated and Mildly Treated

  • Nickel Compounds

  • Radon, Beryllium, & Thorium

  • Trichloroethylene

  • Vinyl Chloride

  • Wood Dust

  • 1,3-Butadiene

  • Cadmium

  • Coal Tar & Coal-Tar Pitch

  • Secondhand Tobacco Smoke (Environmental Tobacco Smoke)

  • Soot & Strong Inorganic Acid Mists Containing Sulfuric Acid

Examples of Environmental Carcinogens Identified in Research

Note: The substances listed are identified as potential carcinogens based on research. The risk of developing cancer depends on multiple factors, including exposure levels and individual genetics.

What is the Mechanism Behind Environmental Toxins Carrying Cancer Risk?

We all know our bodies undergo alteration over a certain period of time, & these changes are known as mutations. Some changes are good, and some turn out to be errors. The body has natural processes to repair these DNA errors, but sometimes, these mechanisms turn out to be not fully effective, which may contribute to cancer risk. 

Majorly, these genetic changes are natural when DNA is replicated during cell division. But this is worth noting: some of these changes may result from environmental exposures that could bring changes in the body that are not natural and damage DNA. When your body is constantly exposed to these toxins over a long period, this may act as fuel to cancer risk.

Let's see how some of these carcinogens may put you at cancer risk:

Aflatoxins

  • What are aflatoxins? They’re toxic substances produced by certain molds that grow on crops like peanuts, corn, and grains, especially in warm, humid places.

  • How do they harm us? When you eat food contaminated with aflatoxins, your liver tries to break them down. However, in this breaking down process, they turn into a harmful chemical called AFB1-epoxide.

  • What does this chemical do? AFB1-epoxide attaches itself to the DNA in your liver cells, causing damage. For an easy understanding, think of it as a bully messing up the preventive instructions of your DNA uses to keep your cells healthy.

  • What’s the big deal? One important part of your DNA, called the P53 gene, is like the body’s "safety officer," which stops damaged cells from growing. Aflatoxins may damage this gene, which could contribute to the growth of abnormal cells.

  • Who’s at risk? This mostly affects people in areas where food isn’t stored properly, making mold contamination more common.

So, How can you stay safe? 

You could save yourself by following these simple steps, which can reduce the chances of health issues:

  1. Storing food properly to avoid mold growth.

  2. Treating crops to prevent contamination.

  3. Spreading awareness so people know the risks and how to prevent them.

Asbestos

  • What is asbestos? It’s a group of minerals that are commonly used in construction materials & other products because they’re strong and resistant to heat.

  • How can you get exposed? If materials containing asbestos are damaged or disturbed, tiny fibers are released into the air you breathe. When you inhale them, they can get trapped in your lungs &  stay there for a long time.

  • What happens to your lungs? Over time, exposure to these toxic fibers may cause scarring & inflammation in the lungs, which has been associated with an increased risk of lung cancer.

So, How can you stay safe? Avoid disturbing materials that might contain asbestos and seek professional help for its removal.

Conclusion:

Cancer is a complex disease influenced by a combo of genetic, lifestyle, & environmental factors. While some factors may contribute to risk, it is important to consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice.

What can you do? Well, start with what’s in your control:

  • Eat healthy. Some studies suggest that managing sugar & carb intake may support overall health.

  • Be mindful of environmental toxins. If your workplace involves handling some kind of hazardous substances, make sure your employer provides all necessary safety measures to protect you. Speak up for your health—it’s your right. Know that health is the only wealth.

Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

References:

  1. https://publichealth.tulane.edu/blog/environmental-toxins/

  2. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/substances

  3. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3629261/

  4. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/substances/asbestos/asbestos-fact-sheet

 

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divya by Aarti Chauhan