If you need to know what to eat before a colonoscopy, you're probably a bit nervous to ask your friends or your health care provider. Have no fear. A colonoscopy is a routine procedure that doctors do each and every day. Use this article as a menu beginning two days before your scheduled colonoscopy.
Two Days Before Colonoscopy
Start going easy on your digestive system about two days before the procedure. You may still eat solid foods during this time, but make them light and low on fat content. Examples include small servings of white chicken meat, fish, fat free soups, and plain pasta. Also, it is best to eat six smaller meals instead of three large meals throughout the day.
Day Before Colonoscopy
The day before your colonoscopy, go ahead and eat a regular breakfast. After breakfast, or at noon (whichever comes first for you), begin your altered liquid diet. All liquids must be clear. Your colon must be completely empty the next day so the doctor can accurately see the intestinal walls.
Examples of clear liquid foods to eat include lemon or lime jello, broth, apple juice, clear pop, and coffee. You must stay away from drinks that have red or purple die. Jello, juice, kool-aid, and Popsicles all come in these colors, so beware when you choose your flavors. Just stick with lemon and lime and you're gold.
Day of the Colonoscopy
Again, go ahead and have clear liquids just like the previous day. Except, once your procedure is two hours away, stop drinking and eating those liquids. Take your medications, however, especially those for high blood pressure. If you have diabetes, let your doctor know so he/she can schedule your colonoscopy for first thing in the morning.
Although I never mentioned it before, people wondering what to eat before a colonoscopy usually know about the bowel prep. Depending on the prescription, some people must begin with the laxative cleanse two days before, while others begin it the day before the colonoscopy. Either way, make sure you understand that you will be spending a long time on the toilet.
Keeping solid foods out of your system is extremely important for an accurate colonoscopy. Some people go a full day without eating any solid, sustaining foods. Prepare your mind and your pantry with acceptable juices and jellos to ease your growling stomach.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
Sources:
University of Michigan Health System, "Colonoscopy", accessed December 26, 2010.
Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, "Before Your Colonoscopy", accessed December 26, 2010.
Kendra Dahlstrom - Kendra has been a freelance writer for over 5 years. Her subjects of choice include personal finance, health, and family. Before working ...
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