Food FAQ: Can I Drink Dark Soda During Colonoscopy Prep? (Pepsi, Coke, Cola)

The rigidity of the colonoscopy prep diet raises many questions, and one of the most common ones patients ask is: Can I drink dark soda during colonoscopy prep?

Preparing for a colonoscopy can be pretty demanding and requires a great deal of planning. The colonoscopy preparation diets—the Low-fiber diet and the Clear liquid diet—are considerably restrictive. They significantly restrict your consumption of fiber before a colonoscopy. The clear liquid diet, in particular, is so restrictive that it only permits the consumption of transparent liquids and gelatin-based foods.

The straightforward answer is yes; dark yet clear soda is permissible before a colonoscopy. Keep reading for a more explanatory answer.

Can I Drink Dark Soda During Colonoscopy Prep?

Your doctor may permit dark soda on your colonoscopy prep for a number of reasons:

Fiber Content: Before a colonoscopy, it is important to prepare your colon for the procedure adequately. This includes ensuring it is as empty as possible, thereby enabling the colonoscope (the doctor’s tool to examine your colon) to move freely and clearly visualize your colon. Eating foods and drinks containing fiber defeats this goal because fiber travels through the digestive tract unchanged and plays a significant role in the formation of well-formed stool. Dark sodas like Coca-Cola and Pepsi contain no fiber, which makes them a great drink option before a colonoscopy.

Calorific Value: According to the United States Department of Agriculture, 360ml of Coca-Cola contains 140kcal of energy and 39g of sugar, which makes it a significant source of calories, particularly on a highly restrictive diet like the clear liquid diet.

Hydrating Properties: According to the Coca-Cola Company, 90% of Coke is water. Water is a crucial part of a pre-colonoscopy diet as it helps to keep you hydrated.

There are also legitimate reasons why your doctor may advise you to avoid dark soda before your colonoscopy. Some of them include:

Sugar Content: Coca-Cola has a significantly high amount of sugar and may not be suitable for people with diabetes or with sugar restrictions.

Artificial Coloring: Some dark sodas (e.g., Mountain Dew Violet) contain artificial coloring, which may not be permissible on a colonoscopy prep. Dark soda with red, blue, or purple colors may be discouraged.

Depending on whom you ask, you may receive conflicting advice about whether you can drink dark soda before a colonoscopy. Therefore, asking your primary care physician for advice may be best because they are well-informed about your medical history and needs.

Can I Drink Dark Soda During Colonoscopy Prep: FAQs

Can I Drink Coke Before a Colonoscopy?

If you are not diabetic, pre-diabetic, allergic, or have any contraindications to drinking Coke before a colonoscopy, you can treat yourself to a glass, can, or bottle. Remember to drink it in moderation.

Can I Drink Diet Coke Before a Colonoscopy?

Yes, you can if your doctor does not advise against it.

Can I Drink Pepsi Before a Colonoscopy?

Pepsi is often placed in the same category as Coke for obvious reasons. This is not different on a clear liquid diet. You can enjoy Pepsi before your colonoscopy.

Can I Drink Dr. Pepper Before a Colonoscopy?

Yes, you can.

If you are still reluctant to have dark soda on your colonoscopy prep, some suitable alternatives include Sprite, 7-Up, Gatorade, White grape juice, Apple juice, and water.

Conclusion

Dark Sodas are permissible on a pre-colonoscopy diet. However, based on your medical history, your physician may advise you to avoid it.