Diet before Colonoscopy Bowel Preparation
Colonoscopy is a process that permits a gastroenterologist to assess the appearance of the inside of the colon or the large bowel. This is accomplished by inserting a supple tube known as colonoscope that is about the thickness of a finger into the anus, and then advancing it slowly, under visual control, into the rectum and through the colon. It is performed with the image control of either looking through the instrument or with viewing a TV monitor. Through this method, cysts and early signs of cancer can be visually recognized. In this case, many times, the suspicious tissue is removed during the procedure.
To be able to prepare your bowels for a colonoscopy you’ll be given a particular diet to assist in emptying your intestines, and then when you arrive for your appointment you’ll be given laxatives and a special solution to drink to help void your bowels completely.
Good foods to Eat before the Procedure
Reduce on heavy solid foods three to four days before the procedure and start introducing lighter meals to your diet. The following food suggestions are a good part of your diet before a colonoscopy bowel preparation:
- Light meat that is easily digestible such as chicken (without the skin)
- Potatoes without skin
- Cheese
- Eggs
- A light meal of steamed white fish
- Light clear soups
Start eliminating solid foods altogether within the next two days. Have a light breakfast the day before the colonoscopy, for example an egg on white toast. After that, do not eat any solid food of any kind. Increasing fluid intake as much as possible to keep yourself hydrated may be the most important part of the colonoscopy diet.
Fluids recommended for you are:
- Water
- Plain tea
- Strained fruit juices
- Soup broth (must be clear)
- Apple or white grape juice
- Coffee
- Ginger ale
- Sports drinks such as Gatorade( not red) or Lucozade
- Oxo, Bovril, Marmite (weak)
Foods to Avoid
The following list of foods should not be eaten in the days leading up to your colonoscopy because they are high in fiber:
- Fruits
- Nuts
- Red meat
- Rice
- Vegetables
Liquids to Be Avoided
In preparation for a colonoscopy, your diet should include plenty of liquids. However, there some that should be avoided:
- Milk
- Milk-based drinks
Some doctors ask you to avoid orange colored dyes foods and beverages colored red or purple as well.
Preparing yourself for a colonoscopy is tough for your body. Your diet before a colonoscopy bowel preparation needs to be monitored vigilantly to avoid dehydration. When it is over, you will be happy that you went through the exam.
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