A colonoscopy is an exam to detect abnormalities within the colon and rectum and possible causes of rectal bleeding, chronic diarrhea or constipation, or other intestinal issues. A colonoscopy is considered the "gold standard" for screening colon cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic. A colonoscopy is relatively safe; however, patients may experience an adverse reaction to the sedative used during the exam, bleeding from the biopsy site or tearing of the rectal wall or colon. Your doctor will give you written instructions for bowel prep prior to the colonoscopy. The bowel prep involves taking a laxative or giving yourself an enema and following a special diet pre-colonoscopy.
Preparation
The gastrointestinal tract must be emptied of all solids by eating a clear diet for one to three days before the procedure, according to the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.
Two Days Pre-Colonoscopy
You may eat light meals that consist of skinless chicken, turkey or fish, eggs, white bread, plain noodles, fat-free clear soups and clear liquids two days before the colonoscopy.
One Day Pre-Colonoscopy
You may eat a normal breakfast. After breakfast, you must following a clear liquid diet that includes fat-free broth or bouillon, apple or grape juice, ginger ale or Sprite, plain Jell-O and black coffee or tea--with or without sugar.
Foods Not to Eat
According to the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, you should avoid solid foods prior to the colonoscopy. This includes fruits and vegetables, cream, butter, seeds or nuts. Avoid food or beverages that are dark red or purple in color.
Day of Colonoscopy
You may not eat solid foods; however, you can have clear liquids up to two hours prior to the colonoscopy.
Medications
A person taking prescribed medication may continue his regular dosage up to the morning of the procedure, after emptying his bowels. A diabetic should check with his doctor to see if dosage can be decreased, as well as dietary guidance. A person taking blood thinners or anticoagulants should also consult with his doctor for direction regarding dosage. A person taking iron supplements should stop taking them a week before the procedure. A heart patient with an artificial valve or history of endocarditis should notify his doctor to see if he will need antibiotics before the colonoscopy.
Post-Colonoscopy
Normally you can resume a normal diet immediately after a colonoscopy. However, you may experience mild nausea from the sedative and may not resume a full appetite until the next day.
