Shopping list for your colonoscopy prep

    A shopping list for food, drinks, and other items you will need during your colonoscopy prep will help you have a successful prep.

    Caroline colonoscopy at hospital

    Top three diet guidelines for colonoscopy prep

    1. For five days before your colonoscopy, you will want to stay on a low-residue diet (see below). Avoiding high-residue foods can help make the bowel prep easier and more effective.
    2. On the day of your prep, your diet should be clear liquids ONLY—no solid foods. 
    3. IMPORTANT: If you are unsure about what you can and cannot eat, contact your doctor's office! Confirming in advance is far better than having your procedure cancelled after you’ve already completed the prep process.
    Types of colonoscopy prep

    Shopping list for colonoscopy prep days

    For five days before your colonoscopy, stay on a low-residue diet with these foods:

    • White bread
    • Noodles/pasta
    • Macaroni and cheese
    • Plain white rice
    • Potatoes (peel off the skin)
    • Canned vegetables without skins or seeds
    • Canned fruit without peels or skins
    • Skinless chicken breasts
    • Sliced turkey
    • Fish
    • Eggs
    • Cheese
    • Ice cream
    hand holding glass of water

    Clear liquid diet

    Following a clear liquid diet the day before your colonoscopy is important. The following are acceptable:

    • Plain water
    • Apple juice
    • White grape juice
    • Lemonade with no pulp
    • Yellow or green gelatin (Jell-O)
    • Popsicles and Italian ice: avoid red, orange, or purple colors
    • Clear sodas: cola, ginger ale, 7-Up, Sprite: avoid red, orange, or purple colors
    • Clear broth: chicken, beef, bone, or bouillon
    • Hard candies or gummy bears: avoid red, orange, or purple colors
    rolls of toilet paper in basket

    Other items to pick up

    • Toilet paper
    • Flushable wipes
    • Vaseline (for irritated skin)

    Your colonoscopy prep, simplified

    Browse articles, videos, and community tips to help you through every step of your colonoscopy prep.

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