Food FAQ: What Color Gatorade For Colonoscopy For Reliable Results?

If you are preparing for an upcoming procedure and are worried about staying hydrated, you may be curious to know what color Gatorade for colonoscopy is the best.

The American Cancer Society has recommended that people with an average risk of colorectal cancer (that is, people who have no known significant predisposing factor such as a personal or family history of cancer, a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, and so on) should start routine colon cancer screening once a decade from the age 45 to 75. Meanwhile, people with increased risks are advised to begin screening earlier and more frequently.

The widely accepted screening option for colon cancer is a procedure known as a colonoscopy. While many people find the procedure quite daunting, many admit that the preparatory process is more challenging. So, in this article, we will discuss whether or not Gatorade can be drunk while preparing for a colonoscopy. If so, what color of Gatorade is permissible?

What Color Gatorade For Colonoscopy Is OK?

All colors of Gatorade for colonoscopy preparation purposes are suitable, except for red, blue and purple colors.

Quick Answers

Can I drink orange Gatorade before a colonoscopy?

Yes, you can drink orange Gatorade before a colonoscopy. The orange Gatorade color does not interfere with the colonoscopy, and is therefore acceptable.

Can I drink blue Gatorade before a colonoscopy?

No, you should not drink blue Gatorade before a colonoscopy. This is because the blue coloring in the Gatorade can stain the colon lining and be mistaken for cyanosis.

Is lemon lime Gatorade ok for colonoscopy prep?

Yes, you can drink lemon lime Gatorade before a colonoscopy. The lemon lime Gatorade color does not interfere with the colonoscopy, and is therefore acceptable.

Why no Gatorade Frost for colonoscopy?

You should not drink Gatorade Frost in blue, purple or red colors before a colonoscopy. This is because these colors can stain the colon lining and lead to misdiagnosis. Other colors from the Gatorade Frost range are OK before a colonoscopy.

What is clear Gatorade for colonoscopy? Which flavors are clear?

Examples of clear Gatorade for colonoscopy preparation include Glacier Cherry and clear Watermelon. However, Gatorade for colonoscopy preparation does not have to be absolutely clear. Any light Gatorade colors that are not red, blue or purple are acceptable.

Is Gatorade Allowed Before a Colonoscopy?

The preparatory diets, the Low Fiber Diet, and the Clear Liquid Diet are very restrictive. Foods with low fiber content and clear fluids are best for colonoscopy preparation.

Gatorade is an American sports drink developed in 1965 by scientists at the University of Florida. It is a transparent energy drink rich in electrolytes and sugar, which provide rehydration and energy. These properties make it a good choice for both Low-Fiber and Clear Liquid diets.

What Color Gatorade For Colonoscopy Should You Avoid?

Generally, particular food and drink colors should be avoided when preparing for a colonoscopy. We discuss this extensively in our article; Before Colonoscopy: What Can I Eat on a Clear Liquid Diet? 

Red, blue, and purple Gatorade should be avoided because they can stain the colon’s lining and mislead the examiner. For instance, a red stain can be mistaken for blood, and a blue or purple stain can be mistaken for cyanosis (a feature of inadequate blood flow commonly seen in dying tissue).

Mistaking a normal tissue for an abnormal tissue or an abnormal tissue for a normal one can be costly. Some of the consequences of such mistakes are:

• Extra expense incurred by sending a sample of the suspected specimen for histopathological assessment.
• Repeat colonoscopies. These will incur extra costs and subject the patient to more stress.
• In extreme cases, a misdiagnosis may be made, and a therapeutic measure may be wrongfully commenced.

Hence, the importance of strictly adhering to dietary recommendations and the doctor’s instructions cannot be overstated.

Conclusion

Gatorade is permissible on a pre-colonoscopy diet. However, when it comes to what color Gatorade for colonoscopy, it is crucial to avoid specific colors. For a more comprehensive guide on what to eat on a pre-colonoscopy diet—including both the Low Fiber Diet and the Clear Liquid diet—you can check out our posts on Before Colonoscopy: What Can I Eat on a Clear Liquid Diet and What is the Clear Liquid Diet for Colonoscopy Preparation.