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Colonoscopy Prep: Low Cholesterol Diet Plan Made Easy

Preparing for a colonoscopy requires a specific diet, and keeping it low in cholesterol can be doubly beneficial. This approach helps clear your digestive tract while safeguarding your heart health. It's an opportunity to reset with clean, simple meals that feel light and refreshing.

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Diet plan grocery list

  • Skinless chicken breast
  • Salmon fillets
  • Turkey breast slices
  • Cod fillets
  • Low-fat yogurt
  • Egg whites
  • Spinach
  • Kale
  • Broccoli
  • Carrots
  • Bell peppers

  • Zucchini
  • Strawberries
  • Blueberries
  • Apples
  • Oranges
  • Brown rice
  • Quinoa
  • Whole wheat bread
  • Oatmeal
  • Almonds
  • Walnuts

  • Olive oil
  • Avocado
  • Tomato
  • Cucumber
  • Low-fat cottage cheese
  • Skim milk
  • Lentils
  • Chickpeas
  • Tofu
  • Flaxseeds
  • Brussels sprouts

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Article Reviewed
• Written by our editorial team.
• Published on May 13, 2024.
• Updated on August 13, 2024.

Diet plan overview

This low cholesterol diet plan for colonoscopy prep is basically geared at emptying your gastrointestinal tract and preparing it for examination. You will be consuming foods that are low in fiber, which are well digestible and will leave little or no residue in the intestines. The diet, therefore, includes refined grains, lean meats, and cooked vegetables, but excludes, for some time before the test, nuts, seeds, and raw vegetables.It also promotes fluid intake and can include clear liquids, along with some broths, in the days before the procedure. The general concept here is to remove as much workload on the digestive system as possible while ridding the colon of material, which contributes to cardio health and helps with your colonoscopy.

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Foods to eat

  • Clear Broth: Chicken, beef, or vegetable broth provides hydration and electrolytes.
  • Clear Juices: Apple juice and white grape juice are easily digestible and provide some energy.
  • Gelatin: Lemon or lime-flavored gelatin offers a light, refreshing snack.
  • Plain Tea: Herbal or black tea without milk can be soothing.
  • Popsicles: As long as they're not red or purple, they can provide hydration and some energy.
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The best diet is the one you don't know you're on.

Brian Wansink, PhD

Foods not to eat

  • Dairy Products: Milk, cream, and cheese can leave residues in the colon.
  • Whole Grains: Brown rice and whole wheat bread can be too fibrous before a colonoscopy.
  • High-Fiber Vegetables: Corn, broccoli, and beans can be hard to digest and leave residues.
  • Nuts and Seeds: Can stick to the intestinal lining and interfere with the procedure.
  • Red or Purple Foods: Can be mistaken for blood during the procedure.

Main benefits

The low cholesterol diet plan for colonoscopy prep minimizes fiber intake while focusing on easily digestible foods like clear broths and gelatin. It includes lean protein sources like chicken and eggs, providing energy without heavy fats. White rice and plain pasta offer gentle carbs that won’t irritate the digestive tract. With a temporary reduction in dairy, this diet keeps cholesterol low while preparing the body for a clear examination.

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📊 Recommended food breakdown (Source)

How to budget on this diet plan

For your prep diet, stick to clear broths, electrolyte drinks, and low-fiber foods like white bread and plain pasta, all of which are easy to find at low prices. Avoid expensive specialty products and keep it simple with homemade gelatin or popsicles. Chicken breasts can be bought in bulk and boiled to create versatile, low-cholesterol protein options. Stock up on applesauce and ensure it's unsweetened to keep the sugar low.

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7-Day Meal Plan for Low Cholesterol Diet Plan for Colonoscopy Prep

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with blueberries, flaxseeds, and skim milk
  • Lunch: Grilled salmon fillet with steamed broccoli and quinoa
  • Dinner: Skinless chicken breast with sautéed spinach, zucchini, and brown rice
  • Snack: Low-fat yogurt with strawberries

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Egg white omelet with kale, bell peppers, and whole wheat toast
  • Lunch: Turkey breast slices with roasted carrots and lentils
  • Dinner: Cod fillet with roasted Brussels sprouts and quinoa
  • Snack: Apple with almond butter

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with low-fat yogurt, strawberries, spinach, and flaxseeds
  • Lunch: Grilled tofu with cucumber, tomato, and brown rice
  • Dinner: Skinless chicken breast with sautéed kale and quinoa
  • Snack: Orange with walnuts

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with blueberries, walnuts, and skim milk
  • Lunch: Salmon fillet with roasted bell peppers and lentils
  • Dinner: Cod fillet with steamed broccoli and brown rice
  • Snack: Low-fat cottage cheese with strawberries

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Egg white scramble with spinach, bell peppers, and whole wheat toast
  • Lunch: Turkey breast slices with roasted zucchini and chickpeas
  • Dinner: Tofu stir-fry with Brussels sprouts, carrots, and quinoa
  • Snack: Apple with almonds

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with low-fat yogurt, blueberries, kale, and flaxseeds
  • Lunch: Grilled salmon fillet with sautéed spinach and brown rice
  • Dinner: Skinless chicken breast with roasted carrots and lentils
  • Snack: Orange with walnuts

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with strawberries, almonds, and skim milk
  • Lunch: Turkey breast slices with cucumber, tomato, and quinoa
  • Dinner: Cod fillet with sautéed Brussels sprouts and brown rice
  • Snack: Low-fat cottage cheese with blueberries

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Get grocery list
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⚠️ 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.