Mucoid plaque: A type of buildup in the body composed of mucus and dead cells, often found in the gut. Question regarding its necessity to be cleansed.
The National Cancer Institute recommends colorectal cancer screening from the age of 45 for those at average risk, and emphasizes a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while limiting red and processed meats, exercising regularly, maintaining a moderate body weight, avoiding smoking, and alcohol consumption [1].
Meanwhile, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken action against companies selling detox and cleansing products, as these products may contain harmful ingredients, claim to treat serious diseases, or be marketed for unapproved uses [2].
One such product claimed to remove a substance known as mucoid plaque from the body. However, it's important to clarify that there is no scientific evidence supporting the existence of mucoid plaques as harmful accumulations in the colon [3].
The intestinal lining renews itself every 3-5 days, making colon cleanses to remove buildup residue potentially unnecessary [4]. The concept of mucoid plaque, often described as mucus-like material and waste coating the intestinal walls, is primarily promoted in alternative health circles, but mainstream medical experts and researchers reject the idea [3].
The intestinal mucus, produced to protect the bowels from harmful microorganisms, digestive enzymes, and acid, among other things, consists of two layers: an inner layer fixed to the colon wall, and an outer layer that allows helpful bacteria to live and grow [2].
In contrast to the unproven mucoid plaque, scientific research on colon health focuses on tangible physiological issues like inflammation, microbiome balance, and epithelial integrity [1][3]. For example, contemporary studies explore colon inflammation mechanisms, microbiota interactions, and mucin secretion disruptions, but none identify or refer to a mucoid plaque entity that needs to be removed [1][3].
It's crucial to note that colon cleanses, or colonic irrigation, are sometimes used by healthcare professionals for people with constipation or before procedures like colonoscopies. However, these procedures should be performed by licensed medical professionals to avoid potential danger or harm [5].
In summary, the mucoid plaque remains a controversial and unproven hypothesis without empirical backing from scientific literature or clinical research. Claims of cleansing products breaking down mucoid plaques lack validation and are not supported by medical science [3].
Detoxification, as suggested by some alternative medicine practitioners, is a process of removing toxins from a person's body. Some practitioners claim it can help remove mucoid plaque. However, there is no medical evidence to support this claim [2]. It's always best to consult with a licensed healthcare provider for advice on maintaining a healthy colon and overall well-being.
References:
- National Cancer Institute. (2021). Colorectal cancer screening. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/types/colorectal/patient/colorectal-screening-pdq
- Food and Drug Administration. (2021). Detox products and toxins in your body. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/detox-products-and-toxins-your-body
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2021). Mucoid plaque. Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/mucoid-plaque
- Mayo Clinic. (2021). Colonoscopy preparation. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/colonoscopy/in-depth/colonoscopy-preparation/art-20047231
- American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons. (2021). Colon cleansing. Retrieved from https://www.fascrs.org/patients/disease-condition/colon-cleansing
- Contrary to claims by some alternative health practitioners, there is no scientific evidence supporting the existence of mucoid plaques that need to be removed from the colon for health benefits.
- The focus on colon health in mainstream science revolves around physiological issues such as inflammation, microbiome balance, and epithelial integrity, rather than the non-existent mucoid plaque.
- Colonoscopies, a medical procedure recommended by the National Cancer Institute for colorectal cancer screening, should be performed by licensed medical professionals and are not related to the controversial and unproven concept of mucoid plaque.
