Home > Diet plans

Energy-boosting diet plan for colonoscopy prep

Prepping for a colonoscopy requires a special diet to clear the bowel. This plan includes satisfying, low-fiber foods that provide energy while meeting the dietary restrictions needed before the procedure.

Get grocery list
Energy-boosting diet plan for colonoscopy prep photo cover

Diet plan grocery list

  • Chicken breast
  • Salmon
  • Eggs
  • Greek yogurt
  • Quinoa
  • Spinach
  • Carrots
  • Avocado
  • Bananas
  • Apples
  • Blueberries

  • Sweet potatoes
  • Almonds
  • Walnuts
  • Oatmeal
  • Brown rice
  • Lentils
  • Kale
  • Beetroot
  • Broccoli
  • Cucumber
  • Coconut water

  • Honey
  • Green tea
  • Ginger
  • Garlic
  • Olive oil
  • Turmeric
  • Whole wheat pasta
  • Flax seeds
  • Pumpkin seeds
  • Tofu
  • Chia seeds

Save this list
Share this list
Article Reviewed
• Written by our editorial team.
• Published on May 22, 2024.
• Updated on August 8, 2024.

Diet plan overview

Preparing for a colonoscopy requires a special energy-boosting diet plan for colonoscopy prep that helps clear the intestinal tract while maintaining energy levels. The focus is on low-fiber foods that are easy to digest, like eggs, white bread, and cooked vegetables without skins or seeds. It's important to avoid seeds, nuts, and whole grains in the days leading up to the procedure.

Hydration plays a critical role in this diet, with an increased intake of clear fluids like broths, teas, and water. The day before the procedure, patients usually switch to a liquid-only diet to ensure the colon is clean. This plan is essential for a successful procedure and quick recovery.

Energy-boosting diet plan for colonoscopy prep exemplary product

Foods to eat

  • Clear Liquids: Broth, tea, and clear juices help maintain hydration without leaving residue in the colon.
  • Electrolyte-rich Beverages: Sports drinks can help maintain electrolyte balance when eating is restricted.
  • Jell-O: As long as it's not red, blue, or purple, this can be a source of a little energy while fasting.
  • Ice Pops: Avoid anything colored red, blue, or purple; these can be soothing and lightly energizing.
  • Strained Soup: Clear soups without solids can provide some sustenance without impacting the colon.
quote icon

The best diet is the one you don't know you're on.

Brian Wansink, PhD

Foods not to eat

  • Anything Colored Red, Blue, or Purple: These can be mistaken for blood in the colon, so best avoided.
  • Solid Foods: To ensure a clean colon, solid foods should be avoided the day before the procedure.
  • Fatty Foods: Can slow down the digestion process and should be avoided during prep time.
  • Nuts and Seeds: These might not be fully digested and can interfere with the colonoscopy results.
  • Whole Grains: Normally healthy, but their fiber can leave residue that complicates the colonoscopy.

Main benefits

Designed to clear the gastrointestinal tract without draining your energy, the energy-boosting diet plan for colonoscopy prep focuses on low-fiber foods that are easy to digest and eliminate. It includes plenty of fluids and electrolytes to maintain hydration and balance during the prep phase. Light, easily digestible meals help you stay nourished without feeling weighed down. Plus, the inclusion of certain supplements ensures you get the necessary nutrients without compromising the effectiveness of the prep.

Energy-boosting diet plan for colonoscopy prep graph

📊 Recommended food breakdown (Source)

How to budget on this diet plan

If you're prepping for a colonoscopy, keep your costs low by buying clear broths and apple juice in larger, more economical packages. Avoid buying small, single-serve packets that cost more. Gelatin packets are cheaper in bulk and can be flavored with juices instead of artificial flavors. Check for sales on popsicles and sorbet, which can be soothing pre-procedure treats. Stay clear of anything red or purple which is restricted, but go for gold with yellow popsicles or lemon sorbet on a budget.

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Get grocery list
picture showing a phone with a shopping list

7-Day Meal Plan for Energy-boosting Diet Plan for Colonoscopy Prep

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with bananas, blueberries, and chia seeds
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with quinoa, spinach, and a side of avocado
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli
  • Snack: Greek yogurt with honey and walnuts

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with oatmeal, flax seeds, and honey
  • Lunch: Quinoa salad with kale, carrots, and beetroot
  • Dinner: Stir-fried tofu with brown rice, broccoli, and garlic
  • Snack: Apple slices with almond butter

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with spinach, banana, Greek yogurt, and flax seeds
  • Lunch: Lentil soup with carrots, garlic, and turmeric
  • Dinner: Grilled chicken breast with sweet potatoes and kale
  • Snack: Coconut water with a handful of almonds

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and avocado
  • Lunch: Salmon salad with cucumbers, kale, and pumpkin seeds
  • Dinner: Baked tofu with brown rice, beetroot, and broccoli
  • Snack: Blueberries with walnuts

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with blueberries, chia seeds, and honey
  • Lunch: Quinoa bowl with lentils, spinach, and carrots
  • Dinner: Grilled chicken breast with whole wheat pasta, kale, and a side of avocado
  • Snack: Apple slices with almond butter

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with Greek yogurt, spinach, banana, and flax seeds
  • Lunch: Salmon with brown rice, broccoli, and a side of beetroot
  • Dinner: Tofu stir-fry with quinoa, carrots, and kale
  • Snack: Coconut water with a handful of pumpkin seeds

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with oatmeal, blueberries, and chia seeds
  • Lunch: Lentil soup with garlic, turmeric, and spinach
  • Dinner: Baked chicken breast with sweet potatoes, broccoli, and a side of avocado
  • Snack: Green tea with almonds and walnuts

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Get grocery list
picture showing a phone with a shopping list
⚠️ Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.