What liquids should you avoid if getting a colonoscopy?

This question was asked in Irvine, California on 12/16/2011.
What can and can't I drink if I am undergoing colonoscopy prep? How long do I have to regulate which liquids I can consume prior to getting a colonoscopy?

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Doctors Answers (1)

David Myles Nolan
Answered on: 12/16/2011

We usually recommend starting a clear liquid diet the morning prior to your exam. In general, you can drink any clear beverage, but we recommend avoiding anything with artificial colors, especially red green or blue. Also carbonated beverages may worsen your prep quality. If you cant see clearly through the liquid and read a newspaper through it, you probably shouldn't drink it.