Preparing for Your Procedure

A healthcare provider wearing a mask and performing an endoscopic procedure in a hospital setting.

At AG, we understand that the idea of preparing for and having a colonoscopy can feel overwhelming. We do our best to make the process as easy as possible. You will generally only need to be off work for the day of the procedure. Plus, the new formulations of bowel prep are much more tolerable than they used to be.

There are two basic steps to bowel prep before your colonoscopy:

Step 1: Pre-Prep: Clear Liquid Diet (see below for instructions on a clear liquid diet)
Step 2: Prep the Night Before (see below for a list of bowel preps and downloadable instructions)

In some cases, changes to your medical regimen must be made prior to your procedure. Your doctor will let you know if/when you should adjust or stop any medications you take. If you have diabetes, you should follow these diabetic prep instructions as well.

If you misplaced your prep instructions, you may download colonoscopy prep forms here.

Procedure Prep Forms

We recommend a low-fiber diet beginning three days prior to your procedure. This limits the amount of food waste that has to move through the large intestine, which makes the bowel prep easier on your GI tract.

A clean colon increases your doctor’s ability to detect and remove polyps or adenomas before they develop into cancer. This is why following the instructions for a good bowel prep is so important. Learn more about colonoscopy prep and adenoma detection rate.

Clear Liquid Diet for Colonoscopy Prep

You will begin bowel preparation the evening before and finish by early morning of the procedure. In most cases, a clear liquid diet is required the day before the procedure. Do not eat or drink anything with red or purple food coloring, and do not drink alcoholic beverages. It is crucial to follow the instructions carefully to ensure the colon is completely clean.

  • Water
  • Tea
  • Plain coffee
  • Clear juices such as apple or white grape
  • Lemonade from powdered mix
  • Fruit-flavored drinks, such as Kool-Aid®, Crystal Light®, etc.
  • Carbonated beverages/soda such as Sprite®, 7-Up®, Mountain Dew®, etc.
  • Sports drinks such as Gatorade®, All-Sport®, Powerade®, etc.
  • Fat-free broth/bouillon/consommé
  • Plain/flavored gelatins
  • Sorbet
  • Fruit ices/Italian ices
  • Popsicles® (without milk or added fruit pieces)
  • Ensure® clear
  • Honey
  • Sugar
  • Hard candy

You can also try these clear liquid drink recipes.

Bowel Prep Products

There are a number of bowel prep solutions available these days. Some can be purchased over the counter, while others require a prescription. The one you choose may depend on what your insurance plan will cover.

If you have any questions or concerns about your procedure or prep, call our office, and we will be happy to help.

Best Doctors for a Colonoscopy in Austin, TX

Colonoscopy prep does not have to be daunting – let the providers at Austin Gastroenterology guide you through every step. To schedule an appointment with an Austin Gastro provider, you can send us a message on Klara or fill out our secure online appointment request form today. For more information about preparing for your colonoscopy, call our office nearest you today. Let us help you lead a healthier life.