Shopping list for your colonoscopy prep

A shopping list for food, drinks, and other items you will need during your colonoscopy prep will help you have a successful prep.

middle aged woman on cell phone

Top three colonoscopy prep diet tips

  1. For five days before your colonoscopy, you will want to stay on a low-residue diet (see below). Staying away from foods that are high in residue will make your prep more comfortable and successful.
  2. On the day of your prep, your diet should be clear liquids ONLY. 
  3. IMPORTANT: If you are unsure about what you can and cannot eat, call your doctor's office! It's better to check ahead than to have your procedure cancelled after you've gone through the prep!

Shopping list for colonoscopy prep days

For five days before your colonoscopy, stay on a low-residue diet with these foods:

  • White bread
  • Pasta
  • Mac and cheese
  • White Rice
  • Potatoes (remove skin)
  • Canned veggies with no peel or seeds
  • Canned fruit with no peel or skin
  • Chicken breasts
  • Sliced turkey
  • Fish
  • Eggs
  • Cheese
  • Ice cream
hand holding glass of water

Clear liquid diet

It's essential that you stay on a clear liquid dietthe day before your colonoscopy. The following are acceptable:

  • Plain water
  • Apple juice
  • White grape juice
  • Lemonade with no pulp
  • Yellow or green Jell-O
  • Popsicles and Italian ice: no red, orange, or purple colors
  • Clear sodas: cola, ginger ale, 7-Up, Sprite: no red, orange, or purple colors
  • Broth: chicken, beef, bone, or bouillon
  • Hard candies or gummy bears: no red, orange, or purple colors
  • Ensure Clear
rolls of toilet paper in basket

Other items to pick up

  • Toilet paper
  • Wipes
  • Vaseline (for irritated skin)

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