What to eat before a colonoscopy: Practical tips for proper preparation

Diet before colonoscopy: How to eat properly? 

Colonoscopy is an important diagnostic examination of the large intestine that helps detect various diseases and abnormalities in the rectum, large intestine, and end of the small intestine. In order for the results to be as accurate as possible, it is essential that the intestine is as clean as possible during the examination. This requires not only taking a special laxative, but also following a proper diet for several days before the examination. Therefore, it is important to know what to eat before a colonoscopy so that the preparation is correct and effective.

Why is proper nutrition important before a colonoscopy? 

Food residues in the intestines can make the examination difficult or even impossible. An insufficiently cleansed intestine reduces the clarity and accuracy of identifying pathological changes in the intestine. Residues can also clog the suction device of the colonoscope, which can lead to premature termination of the examination. Incorrect preparation may therefore lead to the need to repeat the colonoscopy, which is unpleasant for both the patient and the medical staff.

Diet 3–5 days before colonoscopy

A few days before the examination, it is advisable to switch to a low-residue diet, which minimizes the amount of indigestible residue in the intestines. This means limiting foods rich in fiber, seeds, and whole grains. However, under no circumstances should the patient starve themselves.

Recommended foods: 

• White bread, white pastries, pasta made from white flour 

• Refined, well-cooked rice (white rice)

• Lean meat (chicken, turkey, fish)

• Boiled eggs

• Broths and stocks without pieces of vegetables

• Peeled and well-cooked potatoes 

• Bananas, apple puree, fruit compotes without skins and seeds 

• Dairy products without fiber (white yogurt, cheese, milk – if well tolerated)

  
  

Unsuitable foods: 

• Whole grain products, oatmeal, bran

• Raw fruits and vegetables with skin and seeds (apples, pears, kiwis, tomatoes)

• Legumes (lentils, beans, chickpeas)

• Nuts, seeds, and nut products (poppy seeds, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, peanuts) 

• Fatty and fried foods

• Alcohol and carbonated drinks 

• Coffee with sediment and drinks with artificial colors

  
  

Diet 1 day before colonoscopy

The day before the examination, it is advisable to switch to a liquid diet and completely eliminate solid food. However, for breakfast, you can still eat white dry bread or biscuits and yogurt. For lunch, however, only clear strained broth and then only clear liquids. Remember that the body needs sufficient fluids to cleanse the intestines properly.

Recommended liquids: 

• Clear broths (chicken, beef, vegetable, but without solid pieces) 

• Clean water

• Clear fruit juices without pulp (e.g., apple, grape, but not red or purple in color)

  
  

  

  
  

It is important to avoid red, purple, or blue liquids, as they can affect the color of the intestinal mucosa and complicate diagnosis. 

What to eat before a colonoscopy on the day of the examination

You should not eat anything on the day of the examination. Drinking clean water or clear liquids is allowed until a certain time, which will be determined by your doctor. In addition, it is necessary to drink the prescribed cleansing solution as recommended by your doctor. Proper adherence to these instructions will ensure that your doctor has a clear view of the intestinal mucosa and that the examination is quick and effective.

As for medications, continue taking those that you take on a long-term basis, except for those that affect blood clotting, diabetes medications, and iron-containing preparations – in these cases, follow your doctor's instructions. 

Important tips for successful preparation 

1. Maintain a drinking regime 

2. Follow a low-residue diet

3. Listen to your doctor's recommendations – Each patient may have individual instructions depending on their health condition. 

4. Plan your examination day – You may feel tired after the colonoscopy and any premedication, so make sure you have a ride home.

5. Use the laxative solution exactly as instructed.

   
   

What to eat before a colonoscopy: Conclusion 

The diet before a colonoscopy is one of the key steps for a successful examination. Proper preparation will allow the doctor to thoroughly examine the intestinal mucosa and minimize the risk of misdiagnosis. Following a low-residue diet for several days before the procedure and then cleansing with a special solution will ensure that the intestines are sufficiently clean. It is therefore important to follow your doctor's instructions and choose the right foods to avoid complications and the need to repeat the colonoscopy. If you need advice or want to book a colonoscopy, don't hesitate to make an appointment with the specialists at Dr. Gastro.