A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that allows a doctor to inspect the inside surfaces of your large intestine. Although many people feel nervous or unsure about their first colonoscopy, it is an essential diagnostic and treatment tool for gastrointestinal health.
During a colonoscopy, your doctor uses a colonoscope to examine your bowel and transmit live images to a screen. These images provide a real-time and detailed view of your large intestine’s interior lining. This allows your doctor to identify and assess abnormalities like polyps, inflamed tissue, ulcers, or early signs of cancer.
Preparing for a colonoscopy is an important step toward ensuring the success of the exam. Adequate preparation and sticking to a clear liquid diet are necessary to ensure your colon and rectum are properly cleaned for your doctor to gather accurate results.
To properly prepare for a colonoscopy, adjusting your diet beforehand and carefully following all instructions provided is necessary. Consuming certain foods or beverages can hinder the clear view needed for a colonoscopy.
A clear liquid diet consists of transparent and room-temperature foods and drinks you can see through. The clear liquid diet is a temporary regimen usually prescribed a day before your procedure.
You will switch to a clear liquid diet the day before your colonoscopy. This diet helps empty the bowels and limit stool formation, allowing your doctor to have a good view of your colon during the procedure.
While the clear liquid diet may not provide all the nutrients required for sustained health, it’s safe for short-term use and ensures the colon is free of solid residue.
Red and purple dye, commonly found in fruit punch, sports drinks, and popsicles, can create problems during your procedure. You should also avoid other dark or brightly colored dyes. The dye can stain the walls of the colon, obstructing your doctor’s view. Additionally, the dye can remain in the colon and appear like blood during your exam, leading to unnecessary concern or additional testing.
The primary goal of a clear liquid diet is to keep you hydrated, provide essential salts and minerals, and be gentle on your digestive system. While water is indeed a major component of a clear liquid diet, it is not your only option.
In addition to water, the following can generally be consumed on a clear liquid diet:
Sticking to the clear liquid diet is necessary for the success of your colonoscopy. Consuming food or drink not on the approved list can leave residue in the colon, obscuring your doctor’s view and potentially hiding polyps or other abnormalities. Non-compliance may even lead to rescheduling the colonoscopy.
If you need further information on what foods are allowed on a clear liquid diet or how to get ready for a colonoscopy, your healthcare provider is happy to help.
And if you are 45 or older and haven’t scheduled a colonoscopy, it’s time! Schedule an appointment today.
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