A colonoscopy is a procedure used to view the inside of your rectum and colon. It is intended to look for ulcers, abnormal growths and inflamed tissue. It can also be used to look for signs of colorectal cancer. This procedure may be performed if you have unintentional weight loss, bleeding from the anus, disruption in bowel habits and abdominal pain. A specific diet must be followed before having a colonoscopy.
Purpose of Liquid Diet
You must follow a liquid diet before having a colonoscopy. According to Colon Cancer Resource, a special colonoscopy liquid diet must be followed before a colonoscopy to prevent stool from blocking the view of polyps, cancer growths and other areas in your colon. Different doctors will recommend different liquid diets, but all of them are intended to enhance visibility within the colon so that test results can be accurate.
Written Instructions for Liquid Diet
Your doctor will give you a list of instructions on how to prepare for your colonoscopy, according to Colon Cancer Resource Center. To prepare your bowels for this test, you must first eliminate all solids in your colon. One to three days before your colonoscopy, you consume an all-liquid diet. You should not consume foods or beverages that contain purple or red dye.
Liquids to Consume
Good liquids to include in your pre-colonoscopy liquid diet are strained fruit juice, such as apple juice, fat-free bouillon or broth, water, gelatin, tea without cream and plain coffee. You can also consume clear sports drinks, such as Gatorade or Powerade. According to Colon Cancer Resource, if you cannot see through the liquid, it is not clear enough to consume on your liquid diet. Consult your doctor for specific clarification on what can and cannot be consumed.
Gelatin
According to Colon Cancer Resource Center, you will not gain weight on this liquid diet and you will likely feel hungry. You are able to consume gelatin to help you feel as though you are consuming solid food. However, you must not consume gelatin that is red or purple. Other colors are approved. You are also able to drink clear sodas, according to Colon Cancer Resource.
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