3 gastroenterologist-approved types of foods for a successful colonoscopy prep

What you do in the days and hours before a service or procedure at Triborough GI can either help or hinder the effectiveness of the treatment or service and increase or minimize the risks of severe side effects and complications. So, following instructions provided by one of our seven Board-certified gastroenterologists in Bronx, Brooklyn, Bushwick, and Staten Island, New York, is essential. Colonoscopy is important in screening for pre-cancerous polyps and colorectal cancer. We will advise on three food types to support accurate, comfortable, and safe screening.

No. 1: Low-residue foods

Keeping a low-residue diet for at least five days may be beneficial before your colonoscopy. What is a low-residue diet? Here, we are referring to foods that are low in fiber, as “residue” refers to the undigested food that makes up stool. These foods promote fewer, smaller bowel movements. Preparing this way can make for a more comfortable and successful colonoscopy prep. Good options during this stage in the process include:

• White rice
• Pasta
• Canned veggies and fruits (no peel, skin, or seeds)
• Ice cream
• Cheese
• Potatoes (no skin)
• White bread

No. 2: Clear liquids

Cleaning out your colon is not an option you have in the colonoscopy process. It is essential. Our specialists must be able to get a clear view of your colon’s lining. To do this, we can’t have waste blocking our ability to see clearly and to, in turn, make a well-informed diagnosis about any distressing symptoms you may be having. When your colon is not empty, we may also miss potential early-stage problems that could turn into serious conditions (such as cancers). With prompt treatment, growths like polyps and localized cancers have a high “cure” rate. To properly prep your colon, you must consume only clear liquids the day before and the day of your procedure. This means both clear drinks and foods. A few options that fit the bill include:

• Good ol’ H20
• Apple juice
• Grape juice (only white – no red or purple colors)
• Yellow Jell-O
• Green Jell-O
• Pulp-free lemonade
• Bouillon/clear broth
• 7-Up, Sprite, and other clear sodas
• Hard candies, gummy bears, popsicles, and Italian ice (stay away from red, orange, and purple-colored treats)

No. 3: Bowel prep

There is colonoscopy preparation and “bowel prep,” or shorthand for the cleansing solution that your doctor prescribes. Be sure to take the prep exactly as we directed; for instance, do not add unapproved flavors or beverages to your prep. A key mistake is adding flavoring that may be red- or purple-hued. This can result in your bowel not being properly cleansed, interfering with your results and our ability to see and evaluate what is happening inside you properly. Various cleansing solutions are available today, but the “standard” is a specially formulated flavored liquid that may be in powder form or pre-mixed. You can mix the prep with a sports drink or another clear liquid. Again, follow the instructions provided by Triborough GI exactly.

There are no shortcuts to a good cleanse before your colonoscopy. But, with so many benefits of detecting serious problems early, this prep is a small “price to pay.” If you are due for your screening or have questions about the process, contact our Bronx, NY office at (718) 360-1632. If our offices in Bushwick, Staten Island, or Brooklyn are more convenient for you, call our teams there at (718) 865-3960, (718) 710-4906, or (718) 795-2734.

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