Colon Irrigation: The Inside Scoop

We sit down with Rocco Bruno, founder of Regenesis Integrative Health Centers, to discuss the process of colon irrigation. 

Rocco and his wife Amy have spent the last 30 years sharing their device, Angel of Water, with the world. The FDA-cleared Angel of Water system is the outcome of years of research and development to make professional cleansing responsible and safe. Bruno is certified at the Instructor Level through I-ACT, the International Association for Colon Therapy and is a member of the National Board for Colon HydroTherapy.  He has worked in the field since 1982. 

ROCCO BRUNO, FOUNDER OF REGENESIS INTEGRATIVE HEALTH CENTERS

Rocco has spent decades inspiring individuals to address the whole body with whole food, nutrition, and lifestyle and is also a certified Natural Health Professional. He supports a pro-vegetarian diet and stresses the importance of balance when it comes to nutrition and cleansing. Regenesis is on South Lamar with services including acupuncture, colon irrigation, nutrition counseling and training, massage, chiropractic care, and skincare. Regenesis (along with clinics and spas in over 40 countries) uses the Angel of Water system for colon irrigation. Learn more in the FAQ below and read what our editorial team experienced during our sessions.

What is the Angel of Water?

A device that takes care of three key points of colon irrigation: hydration, activation, and evacuation. The Angel of Water device hydrates by delivering water safely and comfortably to irrigate the colon. When using the device, hydration will also activate peristalsis of the colon and the peristalsis evacuates the contents of the colon. The Angel of Water is also used prior to endoscopic or radiological exams, preoperative procedures, and for chronic constipation.

What does a treatment consist of?

Once you’re comfortably positioned, the rectal nozzle is inserted about 1.5 inches while a gentle flow of gravity-fed, one-hundred degree water begins. Water flowing into the colon initiates peristalsis and the patient responds by releasing water and waste repeatedly for 35–40 minutes. The irrigation and hydration start at the rectum and go through the transverse section and then to the cecum, breaking up waste matter and ultimately achieving a complete irrigation of the colon. 

Is colon irrigation safe?

Yes, much safer than the common at-home enema.

How does a colon irrigation session compare to an enema?

Enemas only reach the rectum and lower part of the colon, while colon irrigation treats the entire length of the colon. One colon irrigation session is equivalent to 30 enemas.

Do treatments hurt?

Many clients report that their colon irrigation sessions are both refreshing and relaxing.

How much of the intestines are actually cleansed during a colonic session?

The small intestine is not specifically involved; however, it may be cleansed with the help of an oral intestinal cleanser in tandem with a colon irrigation session.

Are there any contraindications to colon irrigation using the Angel of Water?

If you have any concerns about your health or the experience of colon irrigation, you should consult your primary care physician. Contraindications for the use of the Angel of Water device include, but may not be limited to: recent colon, rectal or abdominal surgery, congestive heart failure, intestinal perforations, carcinoma of the rectum, fissures or fistula, severe hemorrhoids, abdominal hernia, renal insufficiency, first or last trimester of pregnancy, and cirrhosis of the liver. Professionally administered colon irrigation is otherwise safe. 

Is there any possibility of bacterial or viral contamination from prior use of the colon irrigation equipment?

The Angel of Water system uses single-use, sterile rectal nozzles. The use of sterile disposables coupled with the implementation of multi-stage sanitation protocol with EPA-registered disinfectants leaves no danger of contamination. 

How long does a colon irrigation session take?

Each session takes around 30–40 minutes, but we recommend planning an hour and a half for your first consultation with session.

What should I do to prepare for a colon irrigation cleansing?

Refrain from eating about two hours before your session and drink plenty of water the day before

Will I experience any intestinal discomfort or fatigue after the cleansing?

Most individuals do not experience discomfort, but everyone is different. Some report slight fatigue, but this is typically compared to the same level of fatigue after a rigorous workout. After a session, we recommend sipping warm liquids to help soothe your body. If you have any concerns, consult with your colon hydrotherapist. 

Can I go back to work after having a colon irrigation session?

Absolutely. You can work just as you would after a regular bowel movement. 

Will I have privacy during the Angel of Water colon irrigation session?

A certified Angel of Water practitioner will be monitoring you throughout the session for both your comfort and safety, but we do give each patient moments of privacy as well. 

The Austin Fit team had the opportunity to experience colon irrigation at Regenesis with Rocco Bruno and his knowledgeable team. We each enjoyed our visits and felt very welcomed at our separate appointments. The Angel of Water system was completely sterile and surprisingly comfortable.  Each exam room felt like a mini-spa with music and dimmed lighting. The colon hydrotherapist fully monitored us  throughout the session and, afterwards, we agreed that we appreciated our colon irrigation sessions and would definitely return for another visit soon.