How long after a gastroenterological endoscopy can you eat fruit?
Generally, patients can eat fruit 4 to 12 hours after a gastrointestinal endoscopy. After eating fruit, it is important to monitor the body's response. If discomfort symptoms such as abdominal pain or diarrhea occur, medical attention should be sought promptly. The following is a detailed explanation:
Gastrointestinal endoscopy involves inserting an endoscope through the mouth to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, commonly used for detecting conditions such as inflammation or tumors. If only a routine gastrointestinal endoscopy was performed without biopsy, polypectomy, or other special procedures, patients may eat fruit 4 hours after the procedure. However, if a sedated (pain-free) endoscopy was performed, due to the effects of anesthesia, it is recommended to wait 12 hours before resuming diet, and this should be done gradually under a doctor’s guidance.
When choosing fruits, priority should be given to easily digestible and non-irritating options such as apples, bananas, and kiwis. Highly acidic, overly sweet, or irritating fruits should be avoided. Additionally, fruit should be consumed in moderation to prevent excessive intake at one time, which could increase gastrointestinal burden and lead to indigestion.
Patients should also ensure adequate rest, avoid overexertion and strenuous exercise, maintain a light diet, and refrain from consuming spicy or irritating foods such as hot pot, skewers, and grilled items.