Colonoscopy Prep Tips: Guide to A Smooth Procedure (2024)

Table of Contents

  • Colonoscopy Prep is Essential
  • 3-5 Days Before: Low Fiber Diet
  • The Day Before: Clear Liquid Diet
  • Day of the Procedure: Fasting and Final Prep
  • Foods and Substances to Avoid
  • Tips to Make Prep Easier
  • ColonoscopyAssist: Affordable Screenings Made Easy
  • Wrapping Up

Getting ready for a colonoscopy? It’s no fun, but with the right bowel preparation, you can face it head-on knowing you’re doing what’s best for your health. From diet to hydration to timing, it’s all about clearing the way for a good screening. Following a few simple steps will make the process easier and help you avoid a repeat procedure.

Here’s your no-nonsense guide to preparing for a colonoscopy including diet, hydration, and practical tips.

Related – Early Detection: How Colonoscopies Can Save Lives

Colonoscopy Prep is Essential

According to a study published by Shahini of the National Institute of Gastroenterology, bowel prep is considered inadequate in about 25% of colonoscopies.

Preparation is key so your doctor can get a clear view of your colon lining. The cleaner your colon the more effective the procedure is at detecting polyps or abnormalities. Skipping or skimping on prep can lead to incomplete results which may require rescheduling or in some cases repeating the procedure.

If you haven’t scheduled your colonoscopy yet, or are planning to, try our convenientSearch Toolto find trusted and affordable board-certified specialists nearby.

Colonoscopy Prep Tips: Guide to A Smooth Procedure (1)

3-5 Days Before: Low Fiber Diet

A few days before your colonoscopy, start switching to a low-fiber diet to aid in bowel preparation. Reducing fiber minimizes undigested food in the colon making the final prep easier. Here’s what to focus on:

  • White Bread, Rice and Pasta: Easy to digest, these refined grains leave minimal residue.
  • Eggs and Lean Proteins: Go for simple proteins like chicken, fish, or turkey without the skin. Avoid fried or fatty foods.
  • Well-Cooked, Skinless Vegetables: Choose vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or zucchini but make sure they’re cooked and soft.
  • Dairy Products (if tolerated): Milk, cheese, and yogurt are usually okay but stick to low-fiber versions without added fruits or grains.
  • Soft Fruits (without skins): Bananas, melons, and canned fruit (without skins) are nutritious and low bulk.

The Day Before your Procedure: Clear Liquid Diet

The day before your procedure switch to a clear liquid diet to complete the prep. A clear diet means no solids but here’s how you can make it varied enough to keep you energized:

  • Clear Broths: Chicken, beef, or vegetable broths are perfect. Just avoid anything with solid bits to ensure effective colonoscopy preparation.
  • Juices (Avoid Red or Purple): Clear apple juice, white grape juice, and sports drinks are good. Avoid anything with added coloring to ensure a successful bowel preparation.
  • Plain Gelatin and Popsicles: Use these for flavor but avoid red or purple.
  • Tea and Black Coffee (No Creamer or Sugar): These will give you a caffeine boost but keep it simple.
  • Clear Hard Candies: Suck on a few to keep hunger at bay and stay hydrated.

Day of the Colonoscopy Procedure: Fasting and Final Prep

On the day of your colonoscopy follow your doctor’s instructions to the letter. This usually means no solid food and no liquids a few hours before your appointment.

  • Stop All Food and Drink as Directed: Each provider’s timing may vary so follow the instructions you’re given.
  • Sip Water (If Permitted): In some cases small sips of water are allowed but only if approved by your doctor.

Colonoscopy Prep Tips: Guide to A Smooth Procedure (2)

Foods and Substances to Avoid

Some foods can interfere with the digestive system prep so avoid them:

  • Nuts, Seeds, and Whole Grains: These foods are hard to digest and leave a residue. Avoid nuts, popcorn, flaxseeds, and whole grains.
  • Raw Vegetables and Fruit Skins: Raw foods and skins are high in fiber and hard to digest so avoid salads, tomatoes, apples, and berries.
  • Red or Purple Liquids: These can stain the colon making it hard to see during the procedure.
  • Fatty or Fried Foods: Greasy foods can upset your stomach and make prep harder.
  • Certain Medications: Medications like blood thinners, iron supplements or over-the-counter pain relievers may need to be paused. Always consult with your doctor.

Tips to Make Colonoscopy Preparation Easier

To make prep as smooth as possible:

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of clear liquids the evening before your colonoscopy to avoid dehydration and keep you energized.
  • Follow Instructions: Each preparation kit has specific instructions so read and follow them to avoid any surprises.
  • Comfort Measures: Stock up on soft toilet paper, soothing creams, and maybe even a book. You’ll be using the bathroom a lot so it’s worth being prepared.

Colon Cleansing Kits

Here are some of the most commonly prescribed intestinal cleansing kits, each designed to help thoroughly cleanse the colon, helping to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer:

  • GoLYTELY
    A powdered solution you mix with water, GoLYTELY is one of the original prep solutions. It requires drinking a larger volume of liquid but is effective in thoroughly clearing the colon. It typically comes in a one-gallon container and is flavorless, though some may prefer to chill it or add an approved flavor packet for ease.
  • MoviPrep
    Known for its two-liter prep solution, MoviPrep involves drinking a smaller amount compared to traditional kits. It’s taken in two doses, generally the evening before and the morning of the procedure. MoviPrep also includes an added flavor packet for easier consumption, and many find the split-dose regimen easier to manage.
  • Suprep
    Suprep is a sulfate-based prep kit that comes as a liquid concentrate mixed with water. This kit is taken in two separate doses, with each dose totaling around 16 ounces of mixed solution followed by additional clear liquids. Suprep is often considered a more palatable option due to its reduced volume compared to some of the original preps.
  • Plenvu
    Designed for a low-volume approach, Plenvu requires drinking just two doses, each around 16 ounces, followed by clear liquids. It has a fruity flavor and is formulated to make the process more manageable. Many patients find this smaller-volume option easier to consume.
  • CLENPIQ
    CLENPIQ is a ready-to-drink, low-volume solution that doesn’t require mixing. It’s usually taken as two doses, and no additional mixing or chilling is needed, which makes it a convenient choice for patients on the go. Its smaller volume and ready-to-drink format make it a popular choice for convenience.

Remember, each prep kit has specific instructions, so it’s essential to follow the one provided by your healthcare provider for best results.

ColonoscopyAssist: Affordable Screenings Made Easy

ColonoscopyAssist provides affordable and convenient screening options, guiding you through every step—from scheduling and preparation to answering your questions—to ensure a smooth and stress-free colonoscopy experience.

Colonoscopy Prep Tips: Guide to A Smooth Procedure (3)

Wrapping Up

Always consult with your doctor first! Your doctor’s guidance ensures a safe and effective preparation process, helping you avoid any complications and setting you up for the best results.

Follow these tips, consult with your healthcare provider, and you’ll be on track for a clean colon, accurate results, and a smooth experience. Using ColonoscopyAssist to schedule your procedure makes it even easier!

FAQ

How does colonoscopy prep work?

Colon cleansing involves drinking a solution that helps to empty your colon by stimulating bowel movements. The solution contains a mix of electrolytes and sometimes mild laxatives that draw water into the colon, softening stool and promoting frequent trips to the bathroom.

How quickly does colonoscopy prep work?

The timing can vary depending on the prep kit, but generally, intestinal cleansingstarts working within 1 to 3 hours after you begin drinking it. Some people may experience effects sooner, while others may take a bit longer. It’s best to stay near a restroom, as the prep process usually involves multiple trips.

How long does colonoscopy prep last?

Digestive system prep typically lasts several hours. The bulk of the effects may occur within the first 3 to 6 hours, but some people may continue to have bowel movements for longer, especially if they’re taking a split-dose regimen (one dose the evening before and another the morning of the procedure).

What is the easiest colonoscopy prep to tolerate?

When preparing for your colonoscopy, the easiest prep to tolerate often involves Miralax with polyethylene glycol. This one prep option requires you to stop taking certain medications and drink at least 8 glasses of a solution that makes you poop. You’ll drink another dose every one to three hours to clean out your bowels.

For those at average risk for colorectal cancer, this method helps ensure a thorough cancer screening by flushing out the rectum and intestines. Alternatively, sodium phosphate and magnesium options are available, but they may cause more discomfort.

Many find newer options likeSuflave(a flavored drink) orSutab (pills) to be more tolerable than traditional solutions.

  • Suflave: Tastes like a sports drink and requires smaller volumes compared to older preps.
  • Sutab: Offers a tablet-based approach, eliminating the need for consuming large quantities of liquid.

Can colonoscopy prep cause hemorrhoids?

Colonoscopy prep itself typically doesn’t cause hemorrhoids, but it can irritate existing hemorrhoids or make them feel worse. The prep solution often leads to frequent bowel movements, which can cause irritation or discomfort around the anal area, especially if hemorrhoids are already present. Talk to your doctor before starting prep for advice on minimizing any discomfort.

Can colonoscopy prep make you nauseous?

Yes, it’s common for colonoscopy prep to cause mild nausea. The prep solution’s taste, the volume of liquid required, and the emptying of the stomach and bowels can sometimes make people feel queasy. If nausea becomes severe, contact your doctor for additional guidance—sometimes, they can offer alternative prep options or anti-nausea medications.

What should I do if my colon isn’t completely clean before the procedure?

If your colon isn’t completely clean, it may affect the procedure. Your doctor may recommend additional bowel preparation or adjusting your laxative drink to ensure your colon is adequately prepared.

What is the purpose of using a PEG bowel prep?

The purpose of using a PEG bowel prep is to effectively cleanse the bowel by inducing diarrhea, allowing the doctor to have a clear view of the colon during the procedure. PEG is an osmotic laxative that helps draw water into the bowel.

How much liquid will I need to drink for the bowel preparation?

Typically, you’ll drink 4 liters of the bowel prep solution, which may include PEG or saline-based solutions. Follow your doctor’s instructions on how to consume this liquid to ensure effective preparation

When should I start my bowel prep if my colonoscopy is scheduled in the morning?

If your colonoscopy is scheduled in the morning, you should generally start your bowel prep the evening before. This includes following a clear liquid diet and consuming the laxative drink as instructed by your medical center.

What should I do if I experience cramping during the bowel preparation?

Experiencing cramping during bowel preparation is common. You can manage it by drinking the prep solution slowly and taking breaks, or by consulting your doctor who may provide additional tips or adjustments to your prep.

Colonoscopy Prep Tips: Guide to A Smooth Procedure (2024)

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