There are many reasons for needing a colonoscopy. No matter the reason, anyone with diabetes will need to prepare carefully for this procedure.
It is common practice for your doctor to recommend a low residue/fiber meal plan a few days before the procedure. The idea is to cleanse your colon and empty it out to better view the insides of the colon (the large intestine).
For people taking diabetes medication, you will likely need medication adjustments for the day prior, and the day of, the procedure. Be sure to discuss with your endocrinologist ahead of time.
Tips
- Schedule the colonoscopy first thing in the morning so you do not have to go without food or medication for too long
- Keep your CGM on for the procedure and teach the tending nurse how to read/interpret your CGM
- If you wear an insulin pump, there is no need to remove it for the procedure
- Get clear instructions on when to begin dietary adjustments
2-3 days prior to the procedure - Low Residue/Low Fiber Diet
Avoid
- Whole grains
- high fiber carbohydrates
- raw fruits
- raw vegetables
- nuts and seeds (or products that contain these)
- crunchy nut butters
- legumes and lentils
- hard to digest meats such as steaks
- foods with red or purple dyes
Ok to Include
- Grains, breads with less or no fiber per serving (white breads, white rice, pasta)
- Soft cooked or pureed vegetables with no seeds and in small amounts
- Fruits such as applesauce
- Nut butters such as smooth/creamy peanut butter
- Proteins such as chicken, fish, or other lean meats
- Oils
Day prior to the procedure - Liquid Diet
- Medication/Insulin: check with your endocrinologist for a specific plan
- Small quantities of carbohydrate based liquids (10 -15 g) throughout the day as needed. This will be your only source of carbohydrate the day prior.
- A few suggestions besides water:
- broths (chicken, beef, miso, Pho)
- tea or coffee without any cream or milk
- fruit juices (no pulp)
- sodas such as spindrift
- regular sodas with no purple or red dyes
Day of the procedure
- Medication/Insulin: check with your endocrinologist for a specific plan
- Choose a fast acting glucose source and carry it with you to the procedure
- Clear, no dyed, liquid options - apple juice, white grape juice, glucose tablets
- Have a support person accompany you. You will not be allowed to leave on your own.