What are the key reminders for a colonoscopy prep diet?
A colonoscopy prep diet typically starts with avoiding high-fiber foods, including raw fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, several days before the procedure. The day before the colonoscopy, patients are required to follow a clear liquid diet, including broth, clear juices, and electrolyte drinks. Laxatives may be prescribed to fully clear the colon. Following these steps ensures a successful procedure.
1
Coffee/Tea (No Milk)
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Drink black coffee or tea without any cream, milk, or non-dairy creamers.
2
Strain Broth if Needed
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Ensure broths are free of any solid particles or ingredients.
3
Avoid Seeds
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Avoid any drinks or foods that contain seeds, such as orange juice with pulp.
4
Sports Drinks
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Drink sports drinks with electrolytes (no red or purple).
5
Gelatin (Clear)
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Eat only clear, non-red gelatin (e.g., lemon or lime flavors).
6
No Whole Grains
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Avoid whole grains, nuts, seeds, and fibrous vegetables days before the prep.
7
Split Dosing
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Some doctors may recommend a split dose prep, where part is taken the night before and part in the morning.
8
Stop Iron Supplements
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Avoid iron supplements in the days leading up to your prep.
9
Clear Hard Candy
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You can suck on clear hard candy like lemon drops or mints.
10
Avoid Fatty Foods
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Stay away from greasy or fatty foods that are harder to digest.
11
Avoid Cream Soups
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Do not consume creamy soups, even if strained. Only clear broths are allowed.
12
No Dairy Products
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Avoid milk, cream, and other dairy products, even in liquid form.
13
Avoid Solid Foods
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Do not eat any solid foods the day before your colonoscopy.
14
Clear Broth
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Choose chicken, beef, or vegetable broth as a good source of electrolytes.
15
Popsicles (Clear)
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Choose clear, non-red popsicles to soothe hunger without eating solid food.
16
Limit Physical Activity
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Take it easy during the prep day as dehydration and weakness may occur.
17
Herbal Teas (Clear)
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Choose herbal teas that don’t contain fruit pieces or seeds.
18
No Red or Purple Drinks
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Avoid red or purple-colored drinks to prevent them from being mistaken for blood.
19
Clear Juices
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Drink apple juice or white grape juice—no pulp.
20
Sugar or Honey
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You can sweeten tea or coffee with sugar or honey, but avoid creamers.
21
Low-Fiber Diet
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Follow a low-fiber diet 3-5 days before the procedure to ease the prep.
22
Drink Frequently
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Drink clear liquids throughout the day to stay hydrated and help the prep work effectively.
23
Timing of Liquids
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Stop drinking liquids when instructed, typically 2-4 hours before the procedure.
24
Avoid Alcohol
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Do not drink alcohol during the colonoscopy prep process.
25
No Fruits or Vegetables
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Avoid fruits and vegetables during the clear liquid phase.
26
Hydrate Frequently
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Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the prep process.
27
Clear Soda
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Drink clear sodas like ginger ale, lemon-lime soda, or club soda.
28
Clear Liquids Only
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Stick to clear liquids like water, broth, and clear juices during the prep.
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Take Laxatives as Directed
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Take the prescribed laxatives exactly as directed by your doctor.
30
Follow Doctor’s Instructions
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Stick closely to the instructions given by your doctor for the timing of liquids.