A colonoscopy is a medical procedure to examine the large intestine and rectum. Proper dietary preparation is crucial for an effective and safe procedure. Following your healthcare team’s specific instructions ensures a thorough and accurate assessment.
Why Dietary Preparation Matters
Dietary restrictions before a colonoscopy are necessary for a completely clean colon, allowing clear visualization of the intestinal lining. Residual stool can obscure views, making it difficult to detect polyps or other conditions. An unclean colon might lead to missed findings or require a repeat procedure.
The days leading up to the procedure require a “low-fiber” or “low-residue” diet. Fiber leaves undigested material in the colon, interfering with the examination. A low-residue diet reduces indigestible material, resulting in less stool and a cleaner bowel. This adjustment ensures diagnostic accuracy.
Foods to Prioritize
Three days before your colonoscopy, focus on low-fiber, easily digestible foods that leave minimal residue. Lean proteins like skinless chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, and tofu are well-tolerated. These contribute to satiety without adding significant bulk to the stool.
Refined grains are suitable during this preparatory period. Opt for white bread, plain bagels, white rice, and plain pasta. Low-fiber cereals like corn flakes, puffed rice, or cream of wheat are also appropriate. Cook and peel potatoes to remove fiber.
For fruits, select peeled and seedless options like ripe bananas, peeled apples, cantaloupe, honeydew, and peaches without skin. Canned or cooked fruits without seeds or skin, such as applesauce, are permissible. Plain milk, smooth yogurt without fruit or seeds, and mild cheeses are allowed. Clear broths, like chicken or beef, can provide sustenance.
Foods to Strictly Avoid
Three days before your colonoscopy, strictly avoid high-fiber foods and those that leave particles or stain the colon. Exclude all whole grains, including brown rice, whole-wheat bread, whole-grain pasta, and cereals like oatmeal or granola. These items contain fiber that can interfere with clear visualization.
Avoid nuts, seeds, and legumes, as their small particles can persist and obstruct the view. This includes whole nuts, seeds, seeded breads, crunchy nut butters, and popcorn. Eliminate raw fruits and vegetables, especially those with skins or seeds, such as berries, corn, tomatoes, and leafy greens.
Avoid foods or drinks with red, blue, or purple dyes, as these colors can stain the colon and be mistaken for blood during the examination. This includes certain gelatin, popsicles, and beverages. Consuming prohibited foods can lead to incomplete bowel preparation, potentially necessitating a repeat procedure or compromising the accuracy of findings.