Diabetic Colonoscopy Diet

A colonoscopy is a procedure designed to detect ulcers, inflamed tissue and abnormalities such as polyps and tumors inside the colon and rectum. A flexible camera is inserted into the rectum to search for these types of irregularities. Any polyps found in the colon can be removed at the same time. Diabetic patients need to follow special pre-procedure instructions to reduce the risk of hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia before and during this procedure.

Pre-Colonoscopy Diet

On the day before the procedure, stick with a low fiber, high protein and carbohydrate diet. Take your diabetes medications as prescribed. Eat a light breakfast consisting of eggs and white bread or yogurt. Do not consume any meat, oatmeal, cereal or fruit. Before 2 p.m., eat a light lunch consisting of carbohydrates and lean protein such as skinless chicken or fish, seedless vegetables and fruit, and white bread or pasta. Push clear liquids all day. These include water, tea and coffee without cream, Italian ices, sherbet, Gatorade, Jell-O, Popsicles, apple juice and broths. It is important not to drink anything with red, blue or purple coloring added. These additives may skew your test results.

Pre-Colonoscopy Considerations

Any procedure that requires you to change your scheduled meal plans will affect the management of your blood sugar levels. Try to schedule your appointments for early in the day so that you may eat and take your diabetes medications as close to their scheduled time as possible. Until after the procedure, it will be important to stringently monitor your blood sugar levels every two hours. Take your blood glucose monitor and strips with you to the procedures. Let the technician know if you suspect that you are having an adverse low blood sugar reaction during the test. Take an immediate source of sugar to the procedure in case you need to treat a low blood sugar event.

Post-Colonoscopy Considerations

Take your diabetes medications with you to the procedure. As soon as it ends, take your medications and eat your usual meal to avoid a low blood sugar incident. Follow the specific instructions that are provided before leaving the colonoscopy area. Let the staff know if you experience any nausea or stomach discomfort as a result of the colonoscopy medications. Wait until the nausea passes or ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter antacid to alleviate these symptoms. Most patients may resume normal activities the day after the procedure.