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Abstract
Context: Spa retreats provide comprehensive programs for the purpose of stress reduction, detoxification, weight loss, and improvements in health and well-being, and the programs often include caloric restriction and the use of colonic hydrotherapy. Considerable controversy has existed regarding the risks and benefits associated with these therapies. Studies on such programs could help the general public and health care providers to be better informed about their risks and benefits.
Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine initial safety data associated with participating in a spa program that included diet modification, meditation, and colonic hydrotherapy. In addition, the research team hoped to determine the physiological effects of the program.
Design: The study was a pilot in support of development of a more formal efficacy study.
Setting: The We Care Spa in Desert Hot Springs, California was the setting for this study.
Participants: Participants were 15 healthy individuals who were previously planning to participate in a 1-week spa program.
Intervention(s): Over a 1-week period at the spa, the participants (1) received at least four colonics, (2) voluntarily participated in low-risk hatha and Vishnu flow-yoga programs, and (3) followed a juice-fast-cleansing very low calorie diet (VLCD) of approximately 800 calories per day. Stress management was provided through daily structured meditation and yoga programs as well as time for personal meditation to encourage deep breathing, heightened awareness, and a calming effect.
Outcome Measure(s): Participants underwent a standardized physical exam before and immediately upon completion of the spa program. The exams included measures of weight, blood pressure, and laboratory values as well as psychological and spiritual measures. Comparisons of the pre- and postprogram values were performed using a paired t test.
Results: A number of significant changes occurred and were associated with undergoing the spa program. Weight decreased from a mean of 162.2 to 155.4 pounds (P = .0001). Diastolic BP decreased from a mean of 73.7 to 68.0 mm Hg (P = .01). Sodium decreased from a mean of 146.4 to 141.0 mEq (P = .006), and chloride decreased from a mean of 108.1 to 100.3 mEq/1 (P = .0001). Hemoglobin increased from a mean of 13.6 to 14.4 g/dl (P = .009). Measures of depression (P = .0004), anxiety (P = .001), vigor...