Hi everyone, I’m having my first colonoscopy next week and I’m already thinking about what I’ll eat afterwards.
I usually have oatmeal for breakfast. Just wondering, can I eat oatmeal after colonoscopy? Or is it too heavy for the gut right away? I don’t want to upset my stomach after all that prep.
Thanks in advance!
Hi TammyB,
Usually after the procedure they’ll say you can go back to your regular diet as you feel ready, but your gut might be a bit tender from the prep.
A lot of people do fine with soft, bland foods — things like oatmeal, rice porridge, or scrambled eggs — as long as you don’t add lots of nuts, seeds, or dried fruit. I’d start with a smaller portion first just to see how you tolerate it.
(Not medical advice, just what I’ve seen help in the people I’ve cared for.)
-Naomi
I’m all for oatmeal — I like making mine extra soft and a bit runny if my gut is feeling sensitive. I’ll cook it in plenty of water and stir in a spoon of yogurt or smooth applesauce. It’s soothing and not heavy.
After my colonoscopy, oatmeal was actually the first solid thing I ate the next morning. I made it plain, with a little milk and honey. Went down really well — no cramps, no problems.
I’d personally avoid raw fruit toppings or anything rough for the first meal, however.
