Colon cancer ranks second in deaths attributed to cancer, despite being one of the most preventable. It is the third most common cancer found in both men and women and can be prevented, detected, and treated if discovered early enough through a routine screening called a colonoscopy. In the past several years, the colon cancer rate among individuals between 20 and 49 years of age has become twice as prevalent, so experts recommend routine screenings begin at age 45.

Undergoing a colonoscopy requires some advanced preparation that starts several days in advance of the procedure. Today, we are going to talk about what to consume before a colonoscopy and why there is a need for a special diet before a colonoscopy.

Why Does My Diet Before A Colonoscopy Matter?

What you eat before a colonoscopy makes a difference because it affects how clean your colon is during the procedure. Your colon is sort of like a garbage chute, and all the waste material that is not used by your body travels down your colon and exits your body.

During a colonoscopy, the doctor is looking for inflammation and any signs that you may develop cancer. If debris is still present in the colon, the doctor will not be able to closely inspect the lining and may miss any abnormalities.

How Many Days In Advance Should You Start Preparing For A Colonoscopy?

Your gastroenterologist will provide you with guidelines to follow that will tell you what you can and cannot eat for several days before your procedure to make sure your colon is clean. Some doctors require more advanced preparation than others and will provide you with instructions regarding what you can eat 5 days before your colonoscopy, while others will have you start 3 days before your procedure.

Getting Ready For A Colonoscopy

Preparing for a colonoscopy starts by altering your diet for about three days before the procedure. You will have a list of foods that you can eat 2-3 days before your colonoscopy and a list of foods to avoid. The day before your procedure, you are restricted to a clear liquid diet.

Depending on your doctor, you may be given a very strong laxative the night before your procedure to help clear out the colon. The laxative sometimes causes individuals to feel nauseated or cause vomiting. If you experience this side effect, just take it slow and take the laxative in shifts, resting between each one, so you can keep it down. This is uncomfortable, but it is very important to ensure the doctor has a clear view of the colon.

This laxative will cause you to run to the bathroom for several hours with diarrhea, and most likely you will experience some uncomfortable cramping. When your stool feels like water and looks clear or like urine, your colon is empty. It is a good idea to be ready for this process beforehand and prepare your bathroom to be as comfortable as possible. Stock up the toilet paper and put some books, magazines, or your iPad in there so you can have something to keep you distracted. You may also wish to have some vaseline, diaper rash cream, or medicated pads handy in case of irritation.

Foods To Eat Before A Colonoscopy

The foods you need to eat 3 days before a colonoscopy are ones that are very low in fiber. Many of these are the types of foods that are normally on the “avoid” list when you are trying to eat healthy and keep your weight under control. Your doctor will supply you with the exact list they would like for you to follow, but some of the foods you will be allowed to eat 2 and 3 days before a colonoscopy include:

Lamb, beef, ham, veal, or pork that is lean and well-cooked;
Shellfish and fish;
Well-cooked poultry;
Noodles, white pasta, white rice, and white bread;
Some types of cereal, like cornflakes or crispy rice cereal (no bran);
Eggs;
Butter or margarine;
Milk, cheese, including cottage cheese, and cream cheese;
Potatoes with no skin, including mashed, baked, etc;
Well-cooked or canned veggies without seeds or skin;
Tofu;
Sugar or substitute;
Clear jelly (apple jelly, not jam);
Clear juices, water, and milk.

Foods You Should Not Eat 3 Days Before A Colonoscopy

The idea is to get everything out of your colon and have it as clear as possible. Anything that takes time to digest, such as nuts, seeds, and whole grains, should be avoided, as well as things that contain dyes. (both natural and artificial) For example, if you drink dark purple grape juice or red jello before your procedure, it can stain the lining of your colon and make it impossible for the doctor to spot things that are not normal. Some of the foods you should avoid are:

Seeds and nuts (including chunky nut butters);
Whole grains like brown rice and whole wheat products;
Fresh fruit, dried, or canned with skin;
Breakfast cereals that contain fiber;
Beans and lentils;
Raw veggies or veggies with seeds like cucumbers;
Deep-fried foods, including potato chips, french fries, etc);
Any type of jam (fruit spread);
Foods or beverages that are red, purple, or blue in color.

You also need to stop drinking alcohol at least 2 days beforehand to avoid complications when using the laxative the night before your procedure and to prevent an interaction with the IV sedation used during the colonoscopy.

What You Should Eat 1 Day Before Your Colonoscopy

The day before your procedure, you are limited to a clear liquid diet and the laxative you will take as directed by your doctor. Clear liquids mean that you can see through them, and there are no chunks or pieces such as broths, apple or white grape juice, water, sparkling water, etc. You should not drink anything you cannot see through, and you need to avoid any drinks that are red, blue, or purple, in color.

Can I Take My Medicine Before A Colonoscopy?

There are certain medications that you will need to avoid before undergoing a colonoscopy. Your doctor will go over the medications and vitamins or supplements you are currently taking, and they will advise you which ones to stop taking and when. Usually, your doctor will advise you to stop taking medicines or supplements that contain iron and those that thin the blood; however, you will be given instructions based on your specific circumstances.

A colonoscopy requires a bit of preparation, which most consider unpleasant, but it can save your life. If you are over 45 and have never had a screening, or if it has been ten years since your last screening, contact Simmons MD and schedule yours today.

Dr. Okeefe Simmons is a highly skilled gastroenterologist whose extensive medical background and training make him an expert in endoscopy and in his field. You can be certain that you are in good hands with him and his team as you undergo your screening colonoscopy.