Whether it’s discomfort or distress, constipation can be a real burden. Recently, Dr Jennalea U.S.-based primary care physician with a massive TikTok following shared a hands-on technique she refers to as the “colonic sweep”, which is now trending online as a potential way to relieve blockage naturally, without medication.
What Is the Colonic Sweep?
Conceived by Dr Jennale in a widely-watched TikTok video, this manual technique involves pressing specific areas of the abdomen in sequence to mimic the colon’s natural wave-like movement, known as peristalsis. By guiding a bowel movement along its anatomical path, the method aims to move stool along the descending and transverse colon toward the pelvic outlet—without using laxatives.
How to Do It (Step by Step)
Dr Jennale advises users to proceed carefully and ensure a restroom is nearby as relief may occur quickly—often within 30 minutes. Here are the instructions she shared:
- Begin by applying gentle pressure to the lower left abdomen, then push downward toward the pelvis to “open the outlet.”
- Move to the transverse colon area—just below the ribs.
- Use a clockwise sweeping motion: pull toward the belly button diagonally, then press down toward the pelvis.
- Repeat this process, gradually guiding the stool along its natural path.
Dr Jennale cautions that improper technique may backfire, potentially leaving you feeling more bloated or uncomfortable. She emphasizes anatomical awareness: the motion should complement the colon’s curvature and connective structure known as the mesentery.
Real-Life Feedback
Viewers across TikTok and LADbible’s reporting have shared positive feedback. One user commented: “This did, in fact, work within 30 min.” Another exclaimed: “Amazing and FAST!! Already gone twice in the last hour.” While individual experiences vary, many found noticeable results—prompting both enthusiasm and caution in online discussion.
Other Popular Constipation Hacks
Alongside the colonic sweep, a few other internet remedies are trending:
- The Hot Buttered Prune: A warmed concoction combining butter and prune juice, touted by nurses and social media users for its effectiveness as a laxative alternative.
- The chia seed “internal shower”: Letting chia seeds soak in water until they gel, then drinking them, is believed to help stimulate bowel movements.
- A unique toilet posture suggestion from a UK surgeon: crossing one leg over the other on the toilet stool to help align the colon axis and ease elimination.
- These methods highlight a broader trend of home-based, drug-free approaches to managing mild to moderate constipation.
What Causes Constipation?
According to sources like the UK NHS and NIH, constipation typically results from insufficient fiber, low water intake, reduced physical activity, and side effects of certain medications. It’s considered constipation if you go fewer than three times a week or noticeably less than your usual rhythm. Pharmacists usually recommend dietary adjustments or over-the-counter laxatives when lifestyle changes prove ineffective.
Health Warnings and Precautions
Despite positive anecdotal responses, medical professionals advise caution. Dr Jennale herself warns: “Be careful where you use this… you might poop right away,” emphasizing that the technique isn’t suitable for everyone—or every situation. Experts suggest consulting a doctor if constipation persists more than a few days, especially when accompanied by symptoms like blood in stool, weight loss, or abdominal pain—potential signs of underlying issues requiring medical intervention.
Summary
- Hack: The “colonic sweep”—manual abdominal massage following colon anatomy.
- Speed: May trigger a bowel movement within 30 minutes, so have a restroom nearby.
- Response: Many report fast relief, though results vary.
- Alternatives: Include hot buttered prune drink, chia seed soak, and posture tweaks.
- Causes: Often dietary, dehydration, inactivity, or medication-related.
- Precautions: Technique isn’t for everyone; medical advice is crucial if symptoms persist or worsen.
Final Thoughts
The colonic sweep represents a natural, low-cost method that could offer quick relief for certain individuals. While experiences shared online appear promising, its effectiveness may differ with each person—and it should not replace medical advice. If constipation continues beyond a few days or causes concern, seeking professional guidance remains the wisest approach.
