How to Follow the Diet 4 Days Prior to Colonoscopy

Following a healthy diet is crucial to maintain a good digestive system. For people who have a colonoscopy scheduled, it is essential to follow a particular diet before the procedure to ensure that the colon is clean and the test can be performed correctly. In this article, we will discuss how to follow the diet for four days before colonoscopy.

Day 1: Clear Liquid Diet
The clear liquid diet is necessary to clean the colon before the procedure. It includes water, broth, tea, coffee, fruit juices without pulp, gelatin, and sports drinks without red dye. The day before the procedure, patients need to avoid solid foods and dairy products, as they take longer to digest and can hinder the colonoscopy’s effectiveness.

Day 2: Low Fiber Diet
On the second day of the diet, the patient can consume low-fiber foods such as cooked vegetables, soft fruits, and tender meat. The diet should exclude high-fiber foods like whole grains, nuts, seeds, raw vegetables, and fruits.

Day 3: Low Residue Diet
On the third day of the diet, patients can consume low-residue foods that are easily digestible and soft in texture. Foods like white bread, refined cereals, boiled eggs, and baked potato without the skin can be consumed. Avoid consuming high-fat meats, fried foods, and dairy products.

Day 4: Clear Liquid Diet
On the final day before the colonoscopy, patients will follow a clear liquid diet again. It is essential to stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids like water, sports drinks, electrolyte-rich juices, or broths.

In conclusion, following a specific diet before undergoing a colonoscopy is essential to ensure the colon is clean, and the procedure can be performed efficiently. Patients should follow the diet four days before the colonoscopy and avoid high-fiber, high-fat, and chewy foods to prevent blockage and ensure an accurate test result. Consult with your doctor to get a customized diet plan to follow before the procedure.