What to Eat After a Colonoscopy: Top Tips 2024
A colonoscopy is a common procedure used to examine the inside of your colon and rectum. It’s often recommended for people over 50 or those with a family history of colon issues. While it’s an important screening tool for detecting potential problems, the preparation and procedure itself can leave your digestive system a little out of balance.
Your digestive system might feel sensitive after a colonoscopy due to the cleansing preparations you take beforehand. This is why it’s so important to follow the right dietary guidelines. What you eat can significantly impact how quickly you recover and get back to feeling like yourself.
I consulted with our in-house nutrition expert to bring you this list of foods that are gentle on your system and promote a smooth recovery. Keep reading for expert dietary tips that will make your post-colonoscopy recovery as easy as possible!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before making any dietary changes, especially following medical procedures like a colonoscopy.
What to Eat After Colonoscopy
Before the procedure, you'll be put on a clear liquid diet combined with laxatives to prepare the colon. This step is necessary to get a better image of the area but can leave your digestive system a bit rattled. Afterward, you’ll need to rely on some strict meal planning.
It’s important to gradually reintroduce foods to help your digestive tract recover. For the first day or so, you’ll need to focus on drinking plenty of fluids and eating easily digestible foods that won’t irritate your colon.
While most people can resume their regular diet within 24 hours, listen to your doctor and body and stick to soft foods a little longer if needed.
What to Eat Right After
It’s best to stick to soft, low-residue foods (foods that are low in fiber) with a limited amount of dairy to produce less stool, especially during the first hours after the screening¹. Here’s a list of the foods you can eat (in moderation):
What to Eat the Day After
You can introduce more substantial foods as soon as 24 hours after the procedure, but keep in mind that your digestive system is still recovering. Don’t go straight to pizza and crispy chicken or other spicy, fibrous, or greasy foods²!
Here are some foods that are nutritious but still gentle on your stomach:
Soft, cooked vegetables (carrots, zucchini, potatoes)
White fish or skinless chicken
Cooked cereals (like oatmeal or cream of wheat)
White bread or toast
Cottage cheese or soft cheeses
Bananas or other non-acidic fruits
Low-fat yogurt
Soft pasta or noodles
Smooth nut butters (without added sugars or oils)
Soups with soft vegetables and lean proteins
The first few days after a colonoscopy, you most likely won’t have the necessary energy to cook or even shop for food. And takeout is not the best option when you’re looking for soft and gentle foods. You may find it helpful to explore our list of the best vegetarian meal delivery services.
Author’s Tip: Factor sends you ready-made meals in single-serving containers that only need a few minutes in the microwave or oven before you can enjoy them. The meals follow several dietary needs, and you can choose between 35 options every week. Additionally, Factor has a good selection of add-ons that include smoothies, breakfasts, fruit juices, and more.
What to Drink
Immediately after a colonoscopy and in the days following, it’s crucial to stay hydrated. But remember to choose beverages that are easy on your digestive system. Here are some options:
Immediately after:
Water (sipping slowly to avoid overwhelming your system)
Herbal teas (chamomile, peppermint)
Electrolyte drinks (low-sugar versions)
Clear fruit juices (like apple juice, but avoid acidic ones like orange juice)
In the upcoming days, you can diversify your list of beverages and include:
Coconut water (for natural electrolytes)
Decaffeinated tea or coffee (avoid adding cream or sugar)
Low-fat milk or dairy alternatives (almond milk, oat milk)
Smoothies made with non-acidic fruits and yogurt
Diluted fruit juices (apple, pear, or white grape)
Foods to Avoid After a Colonoscopy
You only need 2 or 3 days to recover after a colonoscopy screening. However, if you don’t follow your doctor’s advice and go straight to foods and drinks that have the potential to upset your already sensitive digital system, recovery could last longer.
To avoid this and go back to normal in the shortest time possible, here are some foods and drinks to avoid during this period:
Foods to avoid | Drinks to avoid |
Spicy foods:
| Caffeinated beverages:
|
Fried or greasy foods:
| Carbonated drinks:
|
High-fiber foods:
| Alcoholic beverages:
|
Tough or chewy meats:
| Acidic juices:
|
Nuts and seeds (whole or as butter) | |
Dairy-heavy dishes:
| |
Acidic fruits:
|
Steps to Take for a Healthier Colon
The health of your colon is crucial for good digestion and nutrient absorption. The colon plays a key role in breaking down food, absorbing water and nutrients, and forming waste. If the colon isn't functioning properly, it can lead to digestive issues, malnutrition, or dehydration.
A healthy colon prevents digestive disorders. Maintaining colon health can help prevent conditions like constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and more serious concerns such as colon polyps and colorectal cancer³.
Additionally, colon health supports a strong immune system. The colon houses a large portion of the body's beneficial bacteria, which aids in fighting harmful pathogens and maintaining overall gut health. When the colon is balanced, the immune system can function more effectively⁴.
Now, genetic factors play an important role in colon health, but so do lifestyle factors. Genetics increase susceptibility, but factors like diet, physical activity, and overall gut health management can help reduce the impact of genetic risks on colon health⁵.
If you find it difficult to follow a diet that supports a healthy gut, try planning your meals. Our Meal Planning section has lots of useful tips and guides for beginner meal planners, so make sure to check it out!
Until then, here are a few steps you can start implementing today for a healthier, happier colon:
FAQs
Should I take a prebiotic or probiotic after a colonoscopy?
A probiotic or prebiotic after a colonoscopy – combined with proper nutrition – can help restore gut bacteria balance. Colon preparation depletes beneficial bacteria, and these supplements may support recovery, improve digestion, and promote a healthy microbiome. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
How soon can I return to my regular diet?
Most people can resume their regular diet within 24 hours, but it's best to start with bland, soft foods and gradually reintroduce everyday meals.
What foods should I avoid after a colonoscopy?
There are not that many foods to avoid, but try to stay away from fried or greasy meals, high-fiber foods, nuts, seeds, and tough meats for at least a few days.
Can I drink coffee after a colonoscopy?
It’s best to avoid caffeinated beverages like coffee immediately after, as they can irritate the digestive system.
Why is it important to eat soft foods after a colonoscopy?
Your digestive system is sensitive after the procedure, and soft foods help prevent irritation and aid in recovery.
References
1. https://www.rumcsi.org/news/the-best-and-worst-foods-to-eat-after-a-colonoscopy/
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/colonoscopy/about/pac-20393569
3. https://www.cdc.gov/colorectal-cancer/screening/
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35105664/
