Can I eat spicy food before a colonoscopy?
Feb 05, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingxiang
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, patients should not consume spicy foods before undergoing a colonoscopy, as this may negatively affect the examination. Prior to a colonoscopy, patients need to adjust their diet accordingly to ensure bowel cleanliness and the accuracy of the examination. Spicy foods such as chili peppers and garlic are typically to be avoided, as they may irritate the intestinal mucosa after consumption.
Generally, patients should not consume spicy foods before a colonoscopy, as this may negatively affect the examination. Detailed explanation is as follows:
Prior to a colonoscopy, patients need to adjust their diet accordingly to ensure bowel cleanliness and the accuracy of the examination. It is usually necessary to avoid spicy foods such as chili peppers and garlic, as these may irritate the intestinal mucosa after consumption, causing congestion and potentially affecting the accuracy and safety of the colonoscopy. In addition, these foods may worsen symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea, and even trigger an acute episode of enteritis, affecting the safety and accuracy of the examination.
To ensure the colonoscopy proceeds smoothly and yields accurate results while protecting the patient's health, it is recommended to follow the doctor's instructions and avoid consuming spicy foods before the examination. A light diet is advised before the test, including foods such as millet porridge and vegetable porridge. After the examination, patients should also follow medical advice regarding dietary adjustments to aid in intestinal recovery.
