Expert Video - What can I eat or drink before a colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy bowel prep is a two-step process that involves dietary restrictions and taking a bowel prep medication. In this video, Dr. Echavarria and Dr. Gelrud discuss the dietary restrictions that are required before a colonoscopy. Three days before your colonoscopy, you will need to begin a low residue diet of foods that are very low in fiber and easy to digest (e.g., white bread, rice and pasta, plain crackers, canned fruit, lean meats without skin, and eggs). Do not eat seeds, green vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, kale, cabbage, and do not have dairy, or certain juices like prune juice. One day before - and the day of - your colonoscopy you will need to limit your diet to clear liquids only (e.g. clear broth, black tea or coffee, clear, light-colored juices, clear soft-drinks, clear sports drinks, plain gelatin without fruit, pulp-free juice bars, and water). Do not drink alcohol, liquids you can’t see through, dairy products, or red or purple liquids (these colors may be confused for blood during the colonoscopy). On the day of your colonoscopy, do not drink anything two hours before your procedure.
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Animation - What is a colonoscopy and how do I prepare?
Slide Show - What is a colonoscopy and how do I prepare?
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What is a colonoscopy?
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Why is a colonoscopy important?
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Is a colonoscopy safe?
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What does the colon do?
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Who needs a colonoscopy?
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What can I eat or drink before a colonoscopy?
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What does bowel prep involve?
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What are bowel prep meds?
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Why is bowel prep important?
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What should I tell my doctor about before my colonoscopy?
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What about my current medications?
