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Boost & Colonoscopy Prep

Generally doctors recommend that you have your first colonoscopy at the age of 50. If you're at a higher risk due to a family history of colon cancer or other diseases, you may be advised to get one performed sooner than that. In either instance, although a colonoscopy has become commonplace, many people are still not well informed about what you can and cannot ingest prior to having the procedure.

  1. Colonoscopy

    • A colonoscopy is the examination of your colon, done by inserting a camera connected to the end of a tube into the anus. In doing so a doctor looks for abnormalities that may need to be removed or may need a biopsy performed on them. As you get older you're naturally at a higher risk for colon complications, and this procedure is vital to confirm colon health.

    Boost

    • Boost is a nutritional drink that can be found at many local grocery stores. It is high in vitamins and other nutrients and is often taken to supplement someone's diet when they have a deficiency in a nutritional area, or as a meal replacement as part of a program or as a convenience.

    Preparation

    • Colonoscopy preparation involves specific instructions about what is appropriate and inappropriate to consume in the time prior to having a colonoscopy performed. Many questions often arise regarding the day prior to the procedure, as far as what liquids you are allowed to drink. Although you are not allowed to eat solid foods before the colonoscopy, even if you are advised to only stick with clear liquids, you are still able to get your day's worth of nutrition.

    Integration

    • When sticking to a liquid diet on the day prior to the colonoscopy, Boost is a recommended option as a meal replacement that can still provide you with the necessary nutrition for that day. One 8 oz. can, can be integrated into your liquid diet during the morning of the day prior.

    Importance

    • Ensure can also be used in place of Boost as a nutritional supplement. In either case it is important that neither contains any fiber, as that is something that could interfere with the testing the next day. Always be sure to consult with your physician if you have any specific questions regarding what you can and cannot consume prior to the colonoscopy.

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