Can I eat fruit two days before a colonoscopy?

Jun 01, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Chao
Introduction
Before undergoing a colonoscopy, it is important to adjust your diet to ensure the accuracy and safety of the procedure. Normally, within 24 hours prior to the colonoscopy, you should avoid foods that are high in fiber, prone to producing gas, or difficult to digest, such as certain fruits and vegetables including watermelon, orange juice, grapes, and other similar fruits, as these may increase the amount of gas in the intestines.

Generally, it is not recommended to eat fruit two days before undergoing a colonoscopy. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Prior to a colonoscopy, dietary adjustments are necessary to ensure the accuracy and safety of the procedure. Normally, within 24 hours before the examination, you should avoid high-fiber foods, foods that easily produce gas, or those that are difficult to digest—such as certain fruits and vegetables including watermelon, orange juice, grapes, and other similar fruits. These foods may increase gas in the intestines and affect the accuracy of the examination results. In addition, it is important to avoid alcoholic beverages and drinks containing caffeine. If the doctor determines that a thorough and complete examination of the large intestine is needed, a low-residue diet may be adopted one day prior to limit intake of such foods, along with drinking adequate amounts of water to prevent dehydration.

In summary, before undergoing a colonoscopy, it is advisable to follow your doctor's dietary instructions to ensure the accuracy and safety of the procedure.