Patients may have a light breakfast the day before the procedure, such as juice, coffee and toast. No more solid foods may be eaten until the test is completed. Patients are allowed clear liquids, including tea or coffee without milk; popsicles, white cranberry or apple juice, and broth up until 12 midnight on the eve of the procedure.

Please Note: Avoid consuming products with red dye such as red jello. You may suck on hard candy during your prep. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the evening before the procedure. 

Your physician will provide specific information about how to prepare for the test and what medications to stop or take prior to your procedure.

In all cases, patients must clear out the colon prior to the procedure. This is achieved by a laxative drink, laxative tablets or a combination of the two. You and your physician will determine which alternative is best for you. If you have any questions about the bowel prep or procedure, please call your physician or the Endoscopy Department at Fairview Hospital at (413) 854-9810.