Can You Eat Gummy Bears Before a Colonoscopy? Prep Diet Tips

Can You Eat Gummy Bears Before a Colonoscopy?

With a colonoscopy exam on the horizon, you may be wondering what diet modifications are required beforehand. Can you enjoy treats like gummy bears leading up to your colonoscopy prep, or do they need to be avoided?

Understanding what you can and cannot eat beforehand is key to a successful colonoscopy experience.

Why Colonoscopy Prep Diet is Important

In the days leading up to a colonoscopy, you will be limited to mostly clear liquids. This liquid diet serves some important purposes:

• It empties out your digestive tract so the doctor can see your colon walls clearly.
• It allows for an effective colonoscopy prep to cleanse your bowels.
• It prevents damage to the colonoscope from solid foods.

Following prep diet instructions is vital for an accurate, thorough colonoscopy procedure.

Key Prep Diet Restrictions

Typically, you will be advised to avoid:

• Red and purple foods - They can look like blood in the colon.
• Fiber from fruits, veggies and grains - It can clog the scope.
• Dairy products - They can leave residue in the colon.
• Fatty and fried foods - They take longer to digest.

So where does this leave gummy bear candy?

Can You Eat Gummy Bears Before a Colonoscopy?

Most doctors recommend avoiding gummy bears, as well as other candies, for several days prior to a colonoscopy. Here's why:

They Contain Added Sugars and Syrups

Gummy bears are essentially just corn syrup, sugar, artificial colors and flavors. The high sugar content can cause osmotic diarrhea, which can interfere with bowel prep cleansing.

They Have Artificial Dyes

The artificial dyes, like Red 40 and Blue 1, used to color gummy bears could potentially be mistaken for blood or abnormalities in the colon.

They Can Cause Gas and Bloating

The combination of sweeteners and lack of fiber in gummy bears may lead to gas, cramping and bloating. This can be very uncomfortable when combined with bowel prep.

They Lack Nutritional Value

In the days leading up to a colonoscopy, it’s best to get nutrients from the foods you eat. Gummy bears contain no protein, vitamins or minerals.

While they may seem appealing for their consistency and sweet flavor, most docs advise avoiding gummy bears pre-colonoscopy.

Recommended Clear Liquid Diet Before Colonoscopy

Instead of gummy bears, focus on clear, nourishing liquids in the colonoscopy prep diet. Some good options include:

Water and Mineral Water

Staying well hydrated is key when following a liquid diet. Sip water throughout the day.

Fruit Juices

Drink apple, white grape, lemonade and other light, pulp-free juices. Avoid red or purple juices.

Tea and Coffee

Enjoy plain tea, iced tea, and coffee without cream. Caffeine is allowed in moderation.

Broths and Bouillons

Chicken, vegetable and beef broth provide sodium and nutrients.

Gelatins and Popsicles

Flavored gelatins and ice pops without fruit chunks are usually permitted.

Honey and Syrups

Small amounts of honey, maple syrup and sugar can help satisfy a sweet tooth.

Clear Nutrition Drinks

Drinks like Ensure Clear provide protein and vitamins.

Avoid milk, smoothies, carbonated beverages and alcohol before a colonoscopy.

Sample 1-Day Colonoscopy Prep Diet

What might a typical day of eating look like on the liquid diet leading up to a colonoscopy? Here's a sample menu:

Breakfast

• Water
• 1 cup apple juice
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup clear nutrition drink
• Tea or coffee

Snack

• 1 cup lemonade
• 1 cup gelatin dessert

Lunch

• Water with lemon
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup white grape juice
• Plain popsicle

Snack

• Water
• 1 cup fruit-flavored tea
• 1 tablespoon honey

Dinner

• Mineral water
• 1 cup clear nutrition drink
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup apple juice
• Plain gelatin

Drink plenty of water in addition to juice, broths, and other liquids.

When to Begin the Colonoscopy Prep Diet

The clear liquid diet is typically followed for at least 1-3 days before the colonoscopy itself. But when should you start?

7 Days Before

Some doctors recommend starting a low fiber diet up to 7 days prior. This eases the transition to clear liquids.

3 Days Before

Many experts suggest switching to only clear liquids 3 days before the colonoscopy. This emptying prep allows for thorough cleansing.

Day Before

At the very least, stick to the clear liquid diet the entire day before your colonoscopy when taking the bowel prep solution.

Follow your specific colonoscopy prep instructions provided by your physician.

Shopping List for Colonoscopy Prep Diet

Pick up these items at the grocery store while prepping for your colonoscopy liquid diet:

• Water - Purified, mineral, flavored
• Clear fruit juices - Apple, white grape, lemonade
• Decaf tea bags
• Broth - Chicken, beef, vegetable
• Gelatin cups or powder - Lemon, orange, lime
• Popsicles - Look for clear varieties
• Honey or maple syrup
• Clear nutrition drinks - Ensure Clear, Boost Breeze
• Flavored seltzer water
• Light-colored hard candies - Avoid red, purple

Avoid buying darker juices, milk, soft drinks, creamy soups, yogurt and other foods you'll need to avoid.

Tips for Sticking to the Colonoscopy Liquid Diet

Following a limited liquid diet for multiple days can be challenging. Make it easier with these tips:

Stay Hydrated

Sip water constantly to stay hydrated and prevent hunger pangs.

Consume Your Calories as Liquids

Juices, broths, and nutrition drinks like Ensure Clear provide needed calories.

Try Clear Protein Drinks

Protein shakes and powders that dissolve clear can help you meet protein needs.

Suck on Hard Candy

Sour hard candies can satisfy the need to chew without biting food.

Limit Caffeine

Caffeine can dehydrate you, so only have a moderate amount.

Avoid Solid Foods Completely

Don’t cheat with soft foods, milkshakes or smoothies that could leave residue.

Tell friends and family about your liquid diet so they can support you.

What to Expect After Your Colonoscopy

What can you eat after your colonoscopy is complete? Here's what to expect:

Clear Liquids First

You'll start with clear fluids again like water, juice and broth for the first few hours.

Light Meal After

If you feel up to it, try a piece of toast or crackers after returning home. Rich foods may cause nausea.

Return to Normal Diet

You can typically resume your regular diet the day after the colonoscopy.

But take it slow at first with bland foods. Avoid spicy dishes right away.

The Takeaway on Gummy Bears Before Colonoscopy

While gummy bears seem harmless, it's best to avoid them in the days leading up to your colonoscopy. Stick closely to the recommended clear liquid diet before the procedure.

Drink plenty of water, broth, and juice. This will allow for thorough bowel cleansing and ensure your doctor can clearly visualize your colon.

Following prep guidelines may be dull, but it's an essential step. Stay positive knowing you can return to eating gummy bears and other favorites once your colonoscopy is complete.

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.