Hello, I Am Scheduled For A Colonoscopy Tomorrow At 6:00

Posted on Mon, 1 Jul 2019

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 1 Jul 2019 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : Hello, I am scheduled for a colonoscopy tomorrow at 6:00 a.m.. Am I able to have mashed potatoes to eat beforehand. I know it said a liquid diet but I am so hungry. Thank you, XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Dr. (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
No, you can't......see detailed answer.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

I have gone through your query and here is my advice.

No, you are not allowed to take mashed potatoes beforehand.

Emptying of the colon contents is the main requirement for a successful colonoscopy.

If the bowel preparation(emptying) is not done properly, the colonoscopy may take longer time or the whole process may need to be repeated or rescheduled i.e. another round of bowel preparation.

So you have take only clear liquids one day before the procedure. Keep yourself hydrated. You can take a glass of water or sports drink hourly.

Don't take anything (even water) two hours before procedure. Take laxative dose as advised.

Hope I have answered your query and let me know I can assist you further....Thank you.

Regards,
Dr. Shyam Kale

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj