Can You Eat Gummy Bears Before a Colonoscopy? Tips and Guidelines

Enjoying Gummy Bears Before a Colonoscopy

If you have an upcoming colonoscopy scheduled, you may be dreading the preparation process. Following a clear liquid diet and completing the bowel prep is often viewed as the worst part of getting a colonoscopy. While it may not be the most enjoyable experience, there are ways to get through it more easily. One tip that many patients find helpful is enjoying gummy bears before the procedure.

Eating gummy bears and other clear candies can provide a sweet treat during the limited diet. It gives you something to look forward to and makes the preparation a bit more bearable. Read on to learn why gummy bears are recommended, what other clear candies you can eat, and tips to sail through your colonoscopy prep smoothly.

Why Gummy Bears are Recommended

Gummy bears are one of the most popular go-to candies for the colonoscopy prep diet. Here are some of the key reasons gummy bears are suggested:

• They provide a burst of sweetness without milk, pulp or seeds.
• The gelatin and glycerin ingredients are easily digestible.
• They add variety alongside broths, juices and gelatins.
• Gummy textures make them easier to chew and swallow.
• Fun colors and flavors give a sense of normalcy.

The clear, smooth and easily digestible nature of gummy bears makes them ideal for the limited colonoscopy diet. They go down easily even when you start feeling the effects of the bowel prep. The taste and texture provides enjoyment when your options are very restricted. Just be sure to choose gummy bears with no added sugars like xylitol that can cause gas or other tummy troubles.

Other Clear Candy Options

While gummy bears may be the most popular opaque candy allowed on the liquid diet, they aren't the only sweet treat you can enjoy. Consider mixing things up with a variety of clear candies such as:

• Gummy worms
• Swedish Fish
• Jelly beans
• Gummy cola bottles
• Lemon drops
• Hard candies and lollipops
• Gumdrops
• Marshmallows
• Jello
• Popsicles

Check the ingredient labels and avoid anything with pieces, seeds, pulp or milk products. Stick to smooth, pectin or gelatin based clear candies that will be gentle on your digestive system. Planning out a variety of sweet treats in different flavors will help you get through the colonoscopy prep with minimal suffering.

When to Eat Gummy Bears and Clear Candies

Timing is an important factor when planning to enjoy gummy bears or other clear candies during your prep. Here are some guidelines on when it's best to sneak them in:

• Have some after each bowel movement once you start the laxative portion of the prep. This can help restore energy and blood sugar levels.
• Consume them with sips of your clear liquids throughout the day. Spreading them out provides mini rewards.
• Avoid them right before drinking the bowel prep solution, which requires fasting beforehand.
• Don't eat them within 2 hours of your scheduled colonoscopy.
• Stop eating if you feel very full or experience nausea or vomiting.

Make sure you follow your doctor's specific colonoscopy prep diet instructions. Most allow clear candies in moderation throughout the day up until a few hours before the procedure. Just don't overdo it - gummy bears and jelly beans should complement your liquids, not become the main event.

Tips for an Easier Colonoscopy Prep

While no colonoscopy prep is fun, there are ways to make it more comfortable. Here are some tips to help it go down smoothly:

• Stay hydrated - Drink lots of approved clear liquids to avoid dehydration and headaches.
• Try cold beverages - They may be more appealing and tolerable.
• Use a straw - This makes drinking easier when you start feeling nauseous.
• Suck on mints or chew gum - They freshen breath and provide distraction.
• Apply petroleum jelly - Coat the anal area to avoid irritation from frequent bowel movements.
• Massage your abdomen - This can help ease cramps and stimulate the bowels.
• Stay near a bathroom - Don't go far once the prep starts working.
• Wear comfy clothes - Choose loose, soft fabrics for optimal relaxation.
• Play music or watch TV - Distractions help take your mind off the process.

While not fun, the colonoscopy prep ensures you get the most accurate test results. Keeping a positive attitude and utilizing tricks like enjoying gummy bears can help you sail through it smoothly.

What are Gummy Bears Made Of?

Understanding the ingredients and nutritional profile of gummy bears can help explain why they're on the approved list for colonoscopy preps. Here's a quick look at what gives gummy bears their chewy texture and sweet flavor:

• Gelatin - Typically derived from animal collagen, it provides elastic texture.
• Corn syrup and sugars - Responsible for the sweet taste and maintaining moisture.
• Fruit juices - Added for flavor, color and some trace nutrients.
• Citric acid - Provides tartness and enhances fruit flavors.
• Artificial colors/flavors - Create vibrant colors and fruity flavors.

Gummy bears contain very few intact sugars or fiber particles. This makes them easily digestible during the colon cleansing prep process. Their low solid content and high moisture allows them to smoothly move through your system.

Nutritional Profile

Here is the basic nutritional profile of gummy bears:

• Low in fat and protein
• Virtually no fiber or nutritive carbs
• High in simple sugars from corn syrup
• Low in vitamins and minerals
• About 120-140 calories per serving

Of course, exact nutritional values vary by brand. Look for gummy bears made with natural colors and flavors for a slightly healthier option. Overall, gummy bears offer pure sugar energy with minimal intact fiber or nutrients - which makes them ideal for colonoscopy prep.

How Many Gummy Bears Should You Eat Before Colonoscopy Prep?

It's fine to enjoy some gummy bears leading up to your colonoscopy prep, but moderation is key. Here are some guidelines on how many gummy bears you can safely consume:

• Limit yourself to about 2-3 servings per day.
• One serving size is around 1 ounce or 40-45 gummy bears.
• Don't consume more than 3-4 handfuls throughout the day.
• Always pair gummy bears with drinking adequate clear fluids.
• Avoid them for 2 hours before you start the bowel cleansing laxatives.
• Stop eating if you feel bowel changes, gas, or stomach pain.

While gummy bears can make colonoscopy prep more pleasant, don't overindulge. Too many in one sitting can lead to diarrhea, cramping or nausea which will only make prep worse. Enjoy gummy bears and other clear candies moderately as part of a balanced clear liquid diet.

What About Sugar-Free Gummy Bears?

Sugar-free gummy bears may seem like a smart substitute to keep calories and blood sugar in check. However, they contain sugar alcohols like sorbitol that can have a laxative effect if eaten in excess. This can interfere with the colonoscopy prep process.

While an occasional sugar-free gummy bear won't hurt, don't make them your go-to candy before colonoscopy prep. Stick with traditional gummy bears in moderation throughout the day for the best experience.

Ideal Gummy Bear Brands for Colonoscopy Prep

With so many gummy bear brands on the market, which ones make the ideal colonoscopy prep treat? Here are some top options based on ingredients, safety, and taste:

Haribo Gold Bears

The classic Haribo gummy bears from Germany are a top choice for their quality ingredients and appealing textures. They have a smooth mouthfeel and just the right amount of bounce.

Black Forest Organic Gummy Bears

For an organic alternative, Black Forest gummy bears are made with real fruit juice concentrates and natural colors. They have a softer texture and intense fruit flavors.

Albanese World's Best Gummy Bears

Albanese gummy bears use premium ingredients like real fruit purees. Their teddy bear-shaped gummies are soft, delicate and intensely flavorful.

Trader Joe's Scandinavian Swimmers

These Trader Joe's gummies shaped like fish and whales have a firm, not-too-sticky texture. They come in refreshing flavors like raspberry, lemon and orange.

Annie's Organic Bunny Fruit Snacks

For a milder flavor and super soft texture, Annie's bunny gummies made with organic juices are a great choice. Kids love them!

Always read nutrition labels and choose gummy brands that fit into your colonoscopy prep diet. Look for all natural ingredients when possible for purity and safety.

Can Eating Gummy Bears Affect Your Colonoscopy Results?

Will gobbling gummy bears compromise your colonoscopy results? While you don't want to overdo it, enjoying some gummy bears and clear candies in moderation will not interfere with the accuracy of your colonoscopy.

A small amount of gummy bears will easily dissolve and pass through your colon without leaving residue. As long as you follow the preparation diet properly, avoid milk products and seeds, and don't eat candies right before the procedure, your results won't be affected.

In fact, keeping your energy up and making the prep more bearable by enjoying the occasional treat can help ensure you complete all required steps. Just don't view gummy bears as your main food source. Follow your doctor's instructions and supplement with a variety of clear liquids and light, easily digestible treats.

When to Stop Eating Gummy Bears Before Colonoscopy

While occasional gummy bears won't change your test results, timing is key. Stop consuming all clear candies, including gummy bears, at least:

• 2 hours before you have to start drinking the bowel prep solution
• 5-6 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy procedure

This gives enough time for any remaining pieces to fully move through your system before the colonoscopy. Listen to your body as well - if you start feeling unwell or nauseous, stop eating candies. Stay well hydrated with clear fluids up until 2-3 hours pre-procedure.

The Best Flavors of Gummy Bears for Colonoscopy Prep

Which gummy bear flavors go down easiest when you're stuck on a clear liquid diet? While flavor preferences vary by individual, here are some top picks to consider:

Orange

The tangy sweetness of orange gummy bears provides a burst of flavor. Citrus flavors like lemon and lime are also refreshing choices.

Grape

The classic grape gummy bear flavor satisfies a sweet tooth while avoiding harsh artificial dye colors.

Strawberry

Bright strawberry-flavored bears offer a candy-like flavor that's sweet but not overly tart.

Cinnamon

Warming cinnamon gummy bears can help ease nausea. Just avoid red-hot cinnamon flavors if your stomach is sensitive.

Pineapple

For a tropical treat, tangy and sweet pineapple-flavored gummy bears can transport your tastebuds.

Go for single flavor gummy bears so you can find a few preferred flavors to get you through prep. Avoid sour or intense artificial flavors if you have mouth sensitivity or nausea.

Store-Bought vs Homemade Gummy Bears

To get your gummy bear fix, you can choose from store-bought or homemade versions. Which is better for colonoscopy prep?

Store-Bought Gummy Bears

Benefits of store-bought gummy bears:

• Convenient, grab-and-go options
• Long shelf life - won't spoil before colonoscopy
• Precise ingredients and easy nutrition label reading
• Fun individual flavors to mix and match

Homemade Gummy Bears

Advantages of homemade gummy bears:

• Control over ingredients - use natural colors/flavors
• Adjust textures and flavors to your liking
• Cost effective for eating large amounts
• Satisfaction of DIY creation

When prepping for colonoscopy, store-bought gummies are the safer choice since you know exactly what you're getting. But homemade can be more fun if you have time to prepare them in advance.

Conclusion

Enjoying some gummy bears, within reason, can be a bright spot when preparing for an upcoming colonoscopy. The clear candy provides a burst of sweetness that is allowed and easily digestible. Just be sure to consume gummy bears in moderation alongside plenty of hydrating fluids.

Follow prep diet guidelines, allow enough time for complete digestion, and check with your doctor about any concerns. With some tasty gummy bears alongside other clear liquids, you can get through the colonoscopy prep smoothly and tolerate the bowel cleansing with minimal suffering.

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.