Your procedure journey
Eating before and after your colonoscopy — the practical guide. Your clinic's own instructions always come first.
Your clinic's instructions come first
The single most important thing: follow the specific preparation instructions your clinic gives you. They're tailored to your procedure and take priority over any general information here. The notes below are just to help it all make sense.
The days before — lighter, low-residue eating
In the lead-up you'll usually move to low-residue foods (lower in fibre, easy to digest) — think white bread, plain rice or pasta, eggs, tender meat, and well-cooked vegetables without skins or seeds — and step back from high-fibre foods like wholegrains, nuts, seeds and raw veg. This helps your bowel prep work well.
The day before — clear fluids & bowel prep
The day before is usually clear fluids plus the bowel-prep solution your clinic provides, on their timing. Clear fluids include water, clear broth, apple juice, black tea or coffee, and clear jelly (if your clinic allows) — avoid anything red or purple. Follow your clinic's schedule exactly.
After your procedure — easing back in
Afterwards, start with light, gentle foods and plenty of fluids, then return to your normal diet as you feel comfortable, following any advice from your care team. If you have severe pain, heavy bleeding or feel unwell, contact your doctor or the hospital straight away.
Sources: Your clinic's preparation instructions (authoritative) · Gastroenterological Society of Australia (GESA)
Reviewed by Dr Sivasuthan, 6 July 2026
General gut-health education from your care team. It doesn't replace advice from your doctor or an Accredited Practising Dietitian — please talk to them about your own situation.