Best Popsicle Flavors to Help You Survive Colonoscopy Prep

Understanding Colonoscopy Preparation

Before a colonoscopy can be performed, the colon must be thoroughly emptied and cleaned. This involves following a strict preparation regimen to flush out all solid matter. The liquid prep is not fun to drink, so finding ways to make the process easier can help.

Many patients find enjoying clear liquids like popsicles during the colon cleanout improves tolerance and compliance. Read on to learn more about selecting the best popsicle flavors and types to get through your necessary bowel prep.

Purpose of Colonoscopy Preparation

Colonoscopies allow physicians to visually examine the entire large intestine with a tiny camera on the end of a flexible tube. However, solid stools obstruct full inspection of the intestinal lining for polyps, cancer, ulcers and other issues.

That's why patients are required to follow a thorough bowel cleansing routine before the procedure. This empties the colon fully so there is clear visibility and the camera can capture high quality images.

Common Colonoscopy Prep Ingredients

While there are a few different regimen options, the most commonly prescribed solutions today contain polyethylene glycol (PEG). Other key ingredients include:

• Sodium chloride
• Potassium chloride
• Sodium bicarbonate
• Sodium sulfate

These electrolytes promote osmotic purging to induce watery diarrhea. Newer PEG formulations like MoviPrep also add flavoring agents like lemon-lime to improve the taste.

Typical Prep Schedule

Preps may vary slightly based on the specific solution, but in general the timeline is:

• 1 week before: Receive & read instructions
• 3 days before: Begin restricted low-fiber diet
• 1 day before: Only clear liquids all day - broth, juice, water, popsicles, etc. Take first dose of prep solution in evening.
• Procedure day: Finish remaining prep solution early in morning, at least 2 hours before colonoscopy.

Why Popsicles are Recommended

Popsicles made from clear fruit juices and flavored ice products provide hydration as solids are restricted starting 1-2 days prior to colonoscopy. They also provide sweet relief for those on a bland liquid diet. Additionally, their cool temperature can be soothing during the intense purging process.

Ideal Popsicle Options for Colonoscopy Prep

When selecting your popsicles, the most critical factor is that they contain NO red, blue or purple artificial dye. Stick to orange, yellow and green products or ice made only from clear liquids like apple or white grape juice.

Best Fruit Juice Popsicle Flavors

100% juice bars without added colors or sweeteners are smart picks. Top flavors for colonoscopy prep include:

• White grape
• Peach
• Pear
• Apple
• Lemon
• Lime
• Honeydew melon

Avoid red cherry or strawberry juice that could be mistaken for blood during the procedure. Steer clear of thick purees with pulp as well which aren’t fully liquid.

Ideal Fruit Flavored Ice Pops

Fruit flavored ice pops without dyes are also good choices like:

• Orange creamsicle
• Lemon-lime
• Mixed berry
• Watermelon
• Honeydew

Again, no strawberry, raspberry, cherry, grape or other red/purple pops. Yellow and green flavors are your best options.

Other Allowed Clear Liquid Popsicles

You can also enjoy ice pops made from other approved clear liquids including:

• Coconut water
• Ginger ale or lemon-lime soda
• Sweetened lime or lemon juice
• Frozen apple cider
• Decaf ice coffee
• Frozen tea or herbal tea
• Flavored seltzer waters

The possibilities are diverse, so get creative with non-red ice pops. Just ensure any added sweeteners are color-free.

Avoid These Ingredients

Steer clear of pops with:

• Red, purple or blue dyes
• Dairy ingredients like yogurt or cream
• Seeds, bits of fruit or vegetables
• Alcohol
• Caffeine (if instructed by your doctor)

Making Your Own Colon-Friendly Popsicles

If you can’t find compliant ready-made popsicles, whip up a batch of DIY ice treats! You likely have everything you need in your kitchen.

Suggested Bases

Start with clear juice, tea, coconut water or seltzer then mix, match and customize flavors. Good bases include:

• Apple juice
• White grape juice
• Honeydew melon juice
• Pear nectar
• Peach nectar
• Lemonade
• Sweet lime juice
• Ginger ale
• Sprite/7-Up
• Coconut water
• Decaf iced tea
• Decaf coffee

Flavor Ideas

Jazz up your liquid base with allowed mix-ins like:

• Lime or lemon juice/zest
• Fresh mint
• Pure vanilla extract
• Honey
• Maple syrup

Then simply pour your concoction into popsicle molds with sticks and freeze overnight. Add some fun with small paper umbrellas too!

Extra Tips for Popsicle Prep

Here are some additional pointers to make popsicles more palatable during your necessary colon cleanout:

• Adjust sweetness to taste
• Try creamy banana ice blended smoothies if permitted
• Sip some chicken or vegetable broth before eating pops for electrolytes
• Counter brain freeze with temple massage
• Set a festive mood with music or comedy
• Eat very slowly and mindfully

While there's no way around the discomfort of bowel prep, having a stash of delicious ice pops can lift your mood and take the edge off. Before you know it, your colonoscopy will be complete!

The Takeaway on Popsicles for Colonoscopy Prep

Preparing for a colonoscopy requires commitment to a clear liquid diet and purging laxative solution. Keeping hydrated and minimizing hunger with natural juice popsicles helps patients power through the prerequisites for this vital screening.

Stick to yellow, green and orange treats free of red and purple dyes. Customize your own ice pops at home blending inventive flavors of compliant clear liquids. The tastier you make them, the easier getting through prep will be!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.