Can you eat popcorn before a colonoscopy? Kernels of confusion? Gain clarity on what foods to enjoy and avoid for a successful colonoscopy prep.
What you eat in the days leading up to a colonoscopy goes a long way in contributing to the success or failure of the procedure. Regulating your diet is an integral part of colonoscopy preparation, and it is divided into two phases: the low-fiber diet and the clear liquid diet.
Both diets focus on eating little to no fiber because fiber aids bulky stool formation. Understandably, there are questions regarding what kinds of food are allowed before a colonoscopy. An example of such a question is, “Can I eat popcorn before a colonoscopy?” This article clarifies whether popcorn is permissible before a colonoscopy and provides alternative snack suggestions.
Can You Eat Popcorn Before a Colonoscopy?
The short answer to this question is no, you should not eat popcorn before a colonoscopy. This is because popcorn is made from corn (or maize), a cereal crop rich in fiber, consequently making popcorn rich in fiber.
On a Low-Fiber Diet
The low-fiber diet is the first of the two colonoscopy prep diets. It involves eating only foods and drinks that are low in fiber. Although popcorn may seem like a simple snack, it is fiber-rich and unsuitable for a low-fiber diet.
Can You Eat Popcorn Before a Colonoscopy On a Clear Liquid Diet
The clear liquid diet begins after the low-fiber diet and about 24 hours before the colonoscopy. This diet is even more restrictive than the first. It involves consuming only transparent liquid or gelatinous foods like clear broths, jello, sorbet, etc. Since popcorn is a solid food, it is not allowed on a clear liquid diet.
Alternative Low-Fiber Snacks for a Pre-Colonoscopy Diet
While popcorn is not permissible before a colonoscopy, you can enjoy several other low-fiber snack options when preparing for a colonoscopy.
Some snacks you can enjoy on a low-fiber diet include white bread, noodles, doughnuts, waffles, etc. On a clear liquid diet, you can enjoy some consommé, clear broth, clear jello, energy drinks, black coffee, and so on.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the answer to the question, “Can I eat popcorn before a colonoscopy?” is a definite no.
Popcorn’s high fiber content makes it unsuitable for low-fiber and clear liquid diets. Instead, opt for alternative low-fiber snacks to ensure a successful colonoscopy.
