A colonoscopy is a procedure that helps doctors find early signs of colon cancer and other problems. Your doctor will thread a flexible tube with a light and camera on it into the rectum and through the colon, so he can see video of the inside of your intestines. A special diet is required for one to three days before a colonoscopy to prepare for the procedure, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, or NDDIC.
Bowel Prep
For doctors to see what's going on inside your intestines, you will need to empty all solids from your digestive system, according to the NDDIC. This is usually accomplished by following a clear liquid diet, but you may also have to take laxatives or perform an enema. Your doctor should give you specific, written instructions about what to do and you should follow these instructions carefully.
What to Eat
A clear, liquid diet allows you to eat only liquids you can see through or foods that melt into clear liquids at room temperature, according to MedlinePlus. This includes clear, fat-free broth; fruit juices that have been strained of all pulp or solids such as cranberry juice; water; plain coffee or tea; sports drinks; clear sodas; Popsicles that have no chunks of fruit or pulp; and gelatin. Try to have a mix of three to five of these foods for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
What to Avoid
Avoid any foods or beverages that have red or purple dye in them. These can look like blood during the procedure and throw off the results of your colonoscopy, according to MayoClinic.com. Do not put milk or cream in your coffee or tea, although lemon and sugar are acceptable, according to MedlinePlus. Be careful about fruit juices because some contain nectar or pulp that make them unacceptable. You may have to stop all eating and drinking, including the foods on this list, the night before your procedure. Follow your doctor's instructions.
Other Considerations
At least a week before your colonoscopy, talk to your doctor about any medical conditions you have and all of the medications, vitamins or other supplements you are taking. Your doctor may ask you to change the dose of some medications or stop taking some altogether so they don't interfere with the colonoscopy or cause complications, according to MayoClinic.com. Be particularly sure to tell your doctor if you have diabetes, high blood pressure or heart problems or if you are taking aspirin, arthritis drugs, blood thinners, diabetes medication, or supplements that contain iron.
