A colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for colon cancer screening, and in order for a physician to best view the colon's lining, a bowel preparation is necessary. This involves both drinking a special solution as well as avoiding solid foods prior to the test itself in order to achieve the best results and detect colon cancer.
Transition to a Liquid Diet
When preparing for a colonoscopy, you'll be asked to consume only clear liquids at least 24 hours before the procedure. Because the diet and bowel preparation aim to purge wastes from the colon, begin lightening your food intake two to three days before the test itself. This includes eliminating slow-digesting foods such as meat, eggs, nuts, and leafy greens in favor of high-fiber foods such as vegetables and fruits.
Have Supplies on Hand
Prior to beginning your liquid diet and bowel preparation, make sure you have all the supplies you will need on hand. Make sure you have chicken and vegetable broth, apple or white grape juice, bottled water that contains electrolytes, sports drinks, as well as plenty of toilet paper, paper towels and baby wipes that do not contain alcohol, which can be drying.
Drink Plenty of Fluids
Bowel preparations containing sodium phosphate can be dehydrating, making drinking plenty of water and sports drinks imperative to feeling well and preventing kidney damage. You should also avoid drinking alcohol and carbonated beverages, as these can be dehydrating.
Keep the Preparation at Room Temperature
While you may be tempted to refrigerate the preparation liquid to improve its taste or speed how fast you drink it, the cold temperature could cause your stomach to constrict and cramp. Instead, keep the preparation at room temperature unless otherwise directed.
If you anticipate having difficulty in drinking the preparation, you can request a pill laxative that must be taken every 15 minutes. If you become severely nauseous at any point during your colonoscopy preparation, contact your physician's office.
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