The biggest culprits that will show up in a colonoscopy and obscure our view are foods like nuts, seeds and high-fiber cereals. You also want to avoid granola, coconut, dried fruit and fresh fruit with the skin on, like apples and pears, or fruit with seeds, like strawberries and raspberries.
Three days before your colonoscopy, eat only low-fiber foods. Also, stop taking any fiber supplements or anti-diarrheal medication. Two days before, continue eating only low-fiber foods. One day before, go on a clear-liquid diet.
Avoid foods such as whole grains, seeds, nuts, raw fruits, and vegetables. Don't eat solid foods the day before the procedure: On the day before your colonoscopy, stick to clear liquids only. This will help to ensure that your colon is free of solid waste.
A few days before the colonoscopy procedure you should start eating a low-fibre (low residue) diet: no wholegrains, nuts, seeds, dried fruit, or raw fruits or vegetables. Fruit juices, white bread, refined breakfast cereals, meat and dairy foods are allowed.
If your doctor told you to take your medicines on the day of the procedure, take them with only a sip of water. Take a bath or shower before you come in for your procedure.
Can I shower, eat breakfast, or brush my teeth the morning of my colonoscopy? You may not eat anything the morning of your procedure, but you may continue to drink clear liquids up until 2 hours before your procedure. You may shower and brush your teeth.
However, in general, in the days leading up to your colonoscopy you are allowed to eat: Eggs. Fruit with the skin and seeds removed. Lean meat, chicken and/or fish.
1 Day Before Your Colonoscopy (Prep Day)
Before 10:00 am, you may have a small, light breakfast. Examples of a light breakfast are: eggs, soup or broth with noodles (no meat or vegetables), white crackers, white rice, white potatoes, white bread, Boost® or Ensure®. At 10:00 am, begin a clear liquid diet.
Will I be up all night with colonoscopy prep? Probably not, if you start on time. While everyone's body is different, most people are able to complete their round of purging before going to sleep for the night.
How long does it take a colonoscopy prep to clear bowels completely? It can take 12 to 16 hours for the bowels to completely clear. Eating a low-residue, soft diet for a day or more before starting the prep can help make it easier and faster.
Studies have indicated that colonoscopies done during the morning hours have actually contributed to more accurate findings due to a number of varying factors. Although it might not be a thrill to wake up earlier than usual, it could just help your overall health.
The Day of Your Colonoscopy
Be sure to have a bath or shower the morning of the test and wear comfortable clothing. Body piercings and/or jewelry should be removed before the procedure.
Do not shave your abdomen (stomach) or pubic hair. Shaving before your surgery gives you a higher chance of getting an infection. A person from the health-care team will use clippers to get you ready for surgery if hair needs to be removed.
You may keep most clothing on for upper endoscopy as well as comfortable shirt and socks for colonoscopy. Women may keep their bra on for the procedure.
Most people stop moving their bowels about 2 – 3 hours after finishing the solution. People are different and some have liquid movements until the time of the procedure. The instrument used during the colonoscopy will suction out any liquid left in the bowel. You will not have an “accident” during the procedure.
You may notice Page 5 Division of Gastroenterology some bloating or cramping at the beginning of the prep, but this will usually improve once the bowel movements begin. bowels at least 10-15 times. By the end of your prep, your stool should become a clear, yellow-tinged fluid.
Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothes and socks to keep you warm. Do not wear heavy or bulky sweaters. Avoid girdles, pantyhose, or tight-fitting garments. You will be required to change into a hospital gown for your procedure.
Low residue breakfast foods include eggs, white bread, cottage cheese, yogurt, grits, coffee, and tea. You may have clear liquids. Do not drink milk or eat or drink anything colored red or purple.
It is important to follow all of the instructions provided by our office to ensure a successful exam, however, if you accidentally ate something the day before your procedure before 12:00 PM, you do not need to reschedule as long as you begin the clear liquid diet and follow the rest of the instructions to prepare for ...
Avoid eating seeds, nuts, corn, and any other form of roughage (lettuce, vegetables, bran cereals, etc.) or fiber. Clear Liquids: It is important that large volumes of clear liquids be consumed the day before your procedure up to midnight to avoid dehydration.