What Type of Hard Candies Before Colonoscopy Are OK?

Preparing for a colonoscopy is no walk in the park, which is why many people planning a procedure ask for hard candies before colonoscopy.

A colonoscopy involves strict dietary regulations that must be adhered to in the days leading up to the procedure. At least 24 hours before a colonoscopy, the infamous clear liquid diet is commenced. This diet allows only clear fluid meals, but as dreadful as it may sound, it can actually be an enjoyable experience. Adequate knowledge concerning what is permissible and what is not allowed on a clear liquid diet is vital when preparing for a colonoscopy. It is, therefore, important to answer commonly asked questions regarding what is permissible on a colonoscopy preparation diet. One such question is: what type of hard candies are okay before a colonoscopy? This article answers that question.

Suitable Hard Candies Before Colonoscopy

Hard candies must meet some criteria before they are deemed suitable for a clear liquid diet. Some of these criteria include:

• It should be free of dairy. Milk and milk-based products are not permissible on a clear liquid diet. Beverages and confectionaries like coffee, tea, and candy can be enjoyed on a clear liquid diet as long as they do not contain milk, as milk is not considered a clear liquid.
• It must not contain fruit cuts: When enjoying hard candies before a colonoscopy, they must not contain fruit cuts or chunks.

Some common examples of candies that can be enjoyed on a clear liquid diet are Lifesavers, Jolly Ranchers and Lemon drops.

Hard Candies Before Colonoscopy: What To Avoid

Certain types of hard candies are best avoided when preparing for a colonoscopy. Avoiding these hard candies may be due to various reasons, from their colors to their composition or ingredients. Here are some types of hard candies to avoid before a colonoscopy:

• Candies with Fillings: A clear liquid diet does not allow hard candies with fillings, particularly those rich in fiber, such as nuts. Dairy-based fillings are also not allowed.
• Candies with Artificial Colors: Hard candies with artificial colors, particularly red, blue, and purple, are best avoided on a clear liquid diet. These colors may stain the lining of the colon and give a misleading appearance when observed during colonoscopy. A red stain could be mistaken for blood or inflammation, and a blue stain could be misinterpreted as a sign of necrosis (death of the affected tissue).

Is Butterscotch Hard Candy Allowed Before a Colonoscopy?

Butterscotch hard candies before colonoscopy are a perfect choice if they are of the traditional Scottish variety that is made primarily from sugar, butter, and water. It typically does not contain milk or any dairy products. However, over the years, different people and candy factories have customized the recipes to suit their tastes – and that of their consumers. Therefore, while the traditional Butterscotch hard candy is permissible before colonoscopy, it is advisable that you check the ingredients on the label before treating yourself to one.

Alternatives for Sweet Cravings

If you are craving something sweet but want to avoid the pitfalls of choosing the wrong hard candy, you can consider treating yourself to alternatives like:

• Jellos: These gelatin-based treats are safe as long as they aren’t red, blue, or purple, and they do not contain fruit cuts.
• Popsicles: These fruit-flavored icy treats are not only sweet but also refreshing and hydrating. Make sure you choose popsicles without pulp, seeds, or fruit chunks.
• Flavored Water: Clear, naturally flavored water, such as fruit-flavored water, is another great solution for sweet cravings on a colonoscopy prep diet.
• Butterscotch Jello Bites: Try our recipe for clear liquid diet safe Butterscotch Jello Bites to satisfy that sweet tooth.

Conclusion

Variety is indeed the spice of the clear liquid diet. Keeping your food options fun, tasty, clear, and fibre-free is an excellent strategy for having a successful and enjoyable colonoscopy preparation experience. However, ask your doctor for medical and dietary advice tailored to your unique medical needs.