The gentle power of Gut Health

For centuries, people have recognised the importance of a healthy colon. From ancient Egyptians using enemas as early as 1500 B.C. to therapeutic practices across various cultures, colon cleansing has long been part of humanity’s approach to wellness. Colonic hydrotherapy reached widespread popularity in the 1920s through the 1940s, and in recent years, interest in alternative medicine has sparked a renewed appreciation for these practices. Today, many are turning to colonic hydrotherapy to support digestion, relieve discomfort, and maintain a strong, biologically balanced colon – continuing a tradition that has endured for thousands of years.

Your gut isn’t just processing food – it’s thinking. Lining your digestive tract are more than 100 million neurons, forming what scientists call your “second brain.” Those butterflies when you’re nervous or the gut instincts guiding your decisions are real signals that influence mood, anxiety, and overall mental wellbeing. Research now shows that digestive irritation can even trigger depression and emotional shifts. Despite colonic hydrotherapy’s thousands-of-years-long history and its proven benefits for this gut-brain connection, the treatment still faces scepticism. 

Many worry it might be painful, feel embarrassed to discuss it openly, or simply let discomfort override curiosity. The physical, mental and emotional benefits of colon hydrotherapy are plentiful, and yet for something that has literally been around for thousands of years, it still draws a lot of scepticism. And even if you are curious, it’s not a topic you would generally bring up over lunch with friends!

To address misconceptions about colonic hydrotherapy, we spoke with Erica Hartley of A New U in Sheffield. Erica’s journey into the therapy began in 2012 after qualifying as a colon hydrotherapist. Her first venture – a high-street clinic – proved challenging at a time when few people were familiar with colonic treatments. Undeterred, Erica refocused her vision, converting her home garage into a private, purpose-built clinic. The change allowed her to create a calm, confidential space that suited both her family life and her clients’ comfort. From there, A New U flourished, built on Erica’s passion for digestive health and her belief in a holistic approach to wellbeing.

A New U in Sheffield, South Yorkshire

At A New U, Erica focuses on improving and maintaining good digestive health through colonic hydrotherapy, herbal enemas, food intolerance testing, lifestyle guidance, and stress management. Working in harmony with the bowel’s natural contractions, she helps clients restore balance while providing education, advice, and practical support. A board member and trainer for RICTAT, Erica also delivers CPD courses for qualified therapists and collaborates with GPs to support safe, effective treatment. Fully registered with RICTAT and the GRCCT, and insured with Holistic Insurance, she remains committed to continuous professional development – ensuring every client benefits from up-to-date, evidence-informed care in a supportive, professional setting.

What is colonic hydrotherapy and what are the benefits?

Colonic hydrotherapy involves using warm, filtered water to gently stimulate peristalsis – the natural contractions of the bowel – throughout the digestive tract. Erica describes it as “taking the colon to the gym,” explaining that the process gives the colon a good flush, hydrates it, and encourages healthy muscle movement to support natural elimination. In addition to standard hydrotherapy, Erica offers treatments such as castor oil packs, which can assist with chronic constipation, and coffee enemas, which stimulate the portal vein to enhance liver function and boost the production of glutathione – an antioxidant that helps neutralise free radicals.

She emphasises that therapy is both a physical and mental support process, not a quick fix. For best results, clients are encouraged to commit to improving overall gut health through hydration, balanced nutrition, and lifestyle adjustments. Many report feeling lighter, more comfortable, and experiencing more regular bowel movements after sessions.

Addressing the misconceptions

One of the biggest misconceptions of colonic hydrotherapy is the concern that it will perforate your bowel. In reality, Erica says, “It is literally just a little trickle of water that goes into your colon.” As a member of the International Register of Integrative Colon Hydrotherapists and Trainers, also known as RICTAT, Erica ensures every client completes a detailed medical form before treatment to identify any conditions that could make it unsafe. Those with inflamed diverticulitis or who are under medical investigation, for example, cannot be treated. RICTAT members are also committed to continuous learning, keeping up to date with new research and legislation to maintain the highest safety standards.

People often arrive feeling anxious, expecting an unpleasant or embarrassing experience, but Erica reassures them that it’s nothing like that. “People think it’s going to be horrific and smell and you’re going to poo everywhere,” she laughs. “I’ve done this for 15 years and it’s just a nice, gentle treatment where we are working very naturally with the colon.” The process is calm and discreet, designed to make clients feel at ease from start to finish. By supporting the body’s natural rhythm, the treatment encourages the colon to function more efficiently, often leaving clients feeling lighter and more comfortable.

Erica explains that the pressure used during treatment is extremely gentle. “The pressure that I use is 1.5 litres per minute when it’s just running. When I’m doing any fills, it’s only 0.5. It’s so minimal and very gentle.” This approach allows the body to release waste at its own pace, promoting balance rather than forcing change. Over time, many clients report improved digestion, reduced bloating, and an overall sense of wellbeing that extends far beyond the session itself.

Another common concern is the idea of flushing out good bacteria. Erica is quick to reassure that the beneficial bacteria are actually embedded within the colon walls. “We’re really helping to clear out the bad bacteria, and while a little of the good can be released, you don’t lose it all,” she explains. “It’s about creating space for the good bacteria to thrive again.” By restoring harmony in the gut, the therapy supports both physical and emotional health, reminding clients that true wellness begins from within.

Back to basics

Colonic hydrotherapy is most effective when supported by mindful lifestyle choices. Erica has noticed a growing awareness around gut health, especially among younger generations who are taking their wellbeing more seriously. With so much information now available, many people are beginning to understand how deeply the gut influences overall health. “I often get asked for advice on how to take gut health more seriously,” Erica says, noting that real, lasting change comes from small, consistent habits that support the body every day.

“Think about how your ancestors ate,” she explains. “They lived off the land – nothing was pasteurised, and there were no chemicals in everything.”. She encourages clients to focus on whole, unprocessed foods wherever possible, steering away from products that claim to be ‘diet’ or ‘sugar-free.’ “A lot of people think health is about eating diet foods, but it’s not,” she adds. “Anything that says diet or zero sugar is really not great for you. You’re better off eating whole foods.”

Sugar is a major contributor behind bloating and discomfort. “We all love sugar,” she says, “but it’s just chemical – it causes bloating and throws off your balance.” By reducing refined sugars and processed foods, clients often find their digestion becomes calmer and more consistent. These changes, though simple, can have a profound impact on gut health and energy levels, helping the benefits of colonic hydrotherapy last far longer between sessions. Cutting out sugar and incorporating fibre-rich whole foods can improve your gut health and help reduce bloating, as excess  sugar can feed gas-producing bacteria in the gut and contribute to water retention. 

Protein is another area where Erica encourages mindfulness. While it’s essential for health, she notes that not all protein sources are equal. “Even chemicalised protein foods aren’t as good for you as you think,” she explains. “We need a good balance of protein in our diets, but mass-produced protein powders are often full of chemicals.” Instead, she recommends cleaner, plant-based alternatives such as pea or hemp proteins, which nourish the body without unnecessary additives. 

To find out more about colonic hydrotherapy and arrange a consultation with Erica, please visit www.anewu.uk.com, or to learn more about the training courses with A New U, please go to www.anewucolonictraining.co.uk.