What foods should you eat prior to a colonoscopy?

A few days prior to the colonoscopy, begin eating a low-fiber diet void of whole grains, seeds, dried fruit, raw vegetables and nuts, advises Harvard Health Publications. The day prior to the exam, consume clear liquids only, such as broth, gelatin, clear juice, tea or coffee.

The day before the exam, follow the doctor’s instructions to consume a bowel-clearing liquid that preps the bowel for the test, advises Harvard Health Publications. Typically, doctors advise consuming split doses of the bowel prep liquid, including one the night before the exam and the other around six hours prior to the exam. Continue with the clear liquid diet on the day of the exam.