Colonoscopy Singapore: What to Eat Before the Procedure

Before your colonoscopy in Singapore, you will be given specific dietary preparation guidelines to ensure a clear view for the doctor. Read more about colonoscopy in Singapore on this page: https://gastrohealth.com.sg/services/colonoscopy-singapore/.

A clean colon allows the physician to detect any abnormalities, polyps, or signs of disease with ease. If the bowel isn’t properly cleaned, the procedure may need to be rescheduled.

This is something you will want to avoid as it may lead to unnecessary delays and additional stress. What’s more, adhering to dietary guidelines reduces discomfort and complications during the procedure.

It minimizes the risk of bowel obstructions and ensures a smoother process for both the patient and the provider. On this page, we’ll break down the pre-colonoscopy diet to explain why certain foods are recommended and some not recommended. But first;

What happens if you don’t follow the Colonoscopy Diet?

Let’s face it, colonoscopy prep isn’t easy. So, it is understandable if you’ve read about colonoscopy diets and wondered; what happens if you don’t follow a colonoscopy diet.

Not following a colonoscopy diet can have several consequences. For example, an improperly cleaned colon can lead to misdiagnosis or missed diagnoses which can potentially delay critical treatments. What’s more, inadequate bowel preparation can lead to an incomplete examination which would demand a repeat procedure.

This not only wastes time and resources but can also increase your anxiety and inconvenience. Therefore, it’s essential to adhere strictly to the recommended diet to ensure the most accurate and thorough examination possible.

What is the Diet before Colonoscopy?

While it is strongly advisable to strictly observe the recommended diet before a colonoscopy, the diet itself isn’t even so strange. Here is what the diet before colonoscopy typically looks like;

       I. Clear Liquid Diet

A clear liquid diet consists of easily digestible, transparent liquids that leave little to no residue in the digestive tract. This diet is vital for colonoscopy preparation as it helps cleanse the colon to ensure it is free of any solids that could obstruct the view during the procedure.

Approved clear liquids include water, clear broths (like chicken or vegetable broth), and herbal teas without milk or cream. Clear juices such as apple juice or white grape juice are also acceptable.

Other options include gelatin (without red or purple dye) and popsicles. These liquids provide hydration and minimal calories and still help you stay nourished while keeping your digestive system clear.

    II. Avoiding Certain Liquids

It’s important to avoid liquids that can leave residue or are difficult to digest. Avoid colored beverages, especially those with red or purple dye, as they can be mistaken for blood during the procedure.

Steer clear of milk, orange juice, and other juices with pulp. Also, avoid alcohol, as it can dehydrate you and interfere with the bowel preparation process.

 III. Avoid High-Fiber Foods

In the days leading up to your colonoscopy, it’s essential to avoid high-fiber foods. These include whole grains, nuts, seeds, and fruits and vegetables with skins.

High-fiber foods can leave residue in the colon, making it difficult to get a clear view during the procedure. On the same note, also avoid solid foods and dairy products.

This includes meat, cheese, and other solid foods that are harder to digest and can leave behind undigested particles in the colon. Dairy products can also contribute to residue and are best avoided during the preparation phase.

 IV. Avoid Fatty and Greasy Foods

Fatty and greasy foods can be particularly hard on the digestive system. Avoid foods like fried foods, fatty meats, and rich desserts.

These foods can slow down the digestive process and make it even more difficult to achieve a clean colon. To make everything easy, here is a sample diet plan for 3 days before your colonoscopy in Singapore;

• Three Days Before: Three days before your colonoscopy, start transitioning to a low-fiber diet. For breakfast, you might have scrambled eggs and white toast. Lunch could be a turkey sandwich on white bread with a side of plain yogurt. Dinner might include baked chicken, mashed potatoes, and canned green beans.
• Two Days Before: Two days before the procedure, begin incorporating clear liquids into your diet. For breakfast, have a bowl of low-fiber cereal with skim milk. Lunch could be a bowl of chicken broth with clear apple juice. Dinner might include a small portion of white fish with steamed carrots.
• One Day Before: The day before your colonoscopy, switch to a strict clear liquid diet. For breakfast, have a glass of clear apple juice and some gelatin. Lunch could be a bowl of clear chicken broth and a popsicle. Dinner might include another serving of clear broth and herbal tea.

With all these adjustments you may wonder, what to do if you are hungry before a colonoscopy? Real quick, here is how to easily manage hunger before colonoscopy;

• Staying Full on a Liquid Diet: Managing hunger while on a liquid diet can be challenging. To stay full, try to consume small, frequent meals throughout the day. Drinking clear liquids like broth and gelatin can help curb hunger pangs and provide some nourishment.
• Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial during the preparation period. Drink plenty of approved clear liquids, such as water, clear juices, and herbal teas. Avoid caffeinated beverages as they can lead to dehydration. Keeping a water bottle with you and sipping regularly can help maintain hydration levels.

Also, consider using electrolyte drinks to keep your electrolyte levels balanced, especially if you’re consuming a lot of clear liquids. Time your liquid intake evenly throughout the day to manage hunger and maintain hydration.

Colonoscopy Diet FAQs

· What if I Accidentally Eat Something Forbidden before Colonoscopy?

If you accidentally eat something forbidden, don’t panic. Contact your provider for guidance. They may suggest adjusting your preparation plan or rescheduling the procedure if necessary.

· How to Not Get Sick during Colonoscopy Prep?

Common side effects of the preparation diet include hunger, fatigue, and occasional headaches. To avoid getting sick during colonoscopy prep, stay hydrated, rest as much as possible, and consume small, frequent clear liquid meals.

· What if I am too sick to Finish Colonoscopy Prep?

If you’re too sick to finish your colonoscopy prep, take a 30-minute break and rinse your mouth. Try to drink as much prep as you can tolerate and still report for your endoscopy as scheduled.

In Closing

Preparing for a colonoscopy requires careful attention to your diet to ensure a successful and accurate procedure. So, follow the recommended dietary guidelines to ensure your colon is clear, reduce the risk of complications, and improve the effectiveness of the examination.

We offer colonoscopies in Singapore and pay maximum attention to the prep to ensure a smooth experience for all our patients. To learn more or schedule a consultation for colonoscopy in Singapore, call or visit us at;

Gastrohealth Clinic @ Gleneagles – Dr Bhavesh Doshi | Gastroscopy | Colonoscopy | Health Screening | EUS and ERCP Singapore

6A Napier Rd, #05-35C Gleneagles Hospital Annexe Block,

Singapore 258500

+65 6355 5773