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Endoscopy Prep Diet: Comprehensive Guide to Dietary Protocols for Endoscopic Procedures

What are the dietary guidelines for different endoscopic procedures. How should patients prepare their diet before and after an endoscopy. What foods are recommended and restricted for various types of endoscopies. Why is proper dietary preparation crucial for endoscopic examinations.

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Understanding Endoscopic Procedures: An Overview

Endoscopic procedures play a crucial role in modern medicine, with approximately 75 million performed annually in the United States alone. Of these, 51.5 million are gastrointestinal endoscopies. These minimally invasive techniques allow medical professionals to examine the interior of organs and body cavities without the need for major surgery.

An endoscope, a thin tube equipped with a camera and light, is the primary tool used in these procedures. It enables doctors to visualize internal structures, diagnose conditions, and even perform certain treatments. Endoscopies are typically conducted to investigate symptoms such as stomach pain, difficulty swallowing, digestive tract bleeding, and changes in bowel habits.

These procedures can identify a wide range of diseases and disorders, including:

  • Cancer
  • Ulcers
  • Gastroesophageal disease
  • Inflammation
  • Celiac disease
  • Blockages
  • Pancreatitis
  • Internal bleeding
  • Precancerous abnormalities

Additionally, endoscopies can be used to collect tissue samples for further testing and to treat certain digestive problems directly.

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD): Exploring the Upper GI Tract

An esophagogastroduodenoscopy, commonly known as an upper endoscopy or EGD, is a procedure that examines the upper portion of the digestive system. This includes the esophagus, stomach, and the initial part of the small intestine (duodenum).

EGD Procedure Details

During an EGD, patients are typically given anesthetics to ensure comfort. The procedure usually lasts less than 30 minutes, making it relatively quick compared to some other endoscopic examinations.

Why is an EGD performed? This procedure can help doctors:

  • Investigate abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing
  • Identify the source of upper GI bleeding
  • Detect ulcers, tumors, and inflammation
  • Conduct small biopsies for further analysis

Dietary Guidelines for EGD

Proper dietary preparation is crucial for the success of an EGD. What should patients know about eating and drinking before and after the procedure?

Before the EGD:

  • Patients must abstain from eating or drinking for 6-8 hours prior to the procedure
  • This fasting period ensures a clear view of the upper GI tract for the endoscope

After the EGD:

  • Wait about an hour before consuming any food or drink
  • Begin by sipping water when swallowing feels comfortable
  • Avoid alcohol for 24 hours following the procedure
  • Stick to easily digestible foods for 24-48 hours

What are some recommended foods for post-EGD recovery? Patients can consider options such as:

  • Soup
  • Eggs
  • Pudding
  • Juice
  • Applesauce

Colonoscopy: Examining the Large Intestine

Colonoscopy is one of the most frequently performed endoscopic procedures, with approximately 19 million conducted annually in the United States. This examination focuses on the lining of the large intestine (colon) and sometimes part of the small intestine.

Colonoscopy Procedure and Importance

During a colonoscopy, an endoscope is inserted through the rectum under anesthesia. The procedure typically lasts between 30 minutes to an hour. Why are colonoscopies so crucial?

  • They can detect colorectal bleeding, Crohn’s disease, and colorectal cancer
  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends regular colonoscopies for adults aged 50-75 as a screening tool for colorectal cancer
  • On average, 1 in 23 men and women are at risk of developing colon cancer, making early detection vital

Dietary Guidelines for Colonoscopy

Proper preparation is essential for a successful colonoscopy. How should patients adjust their diet before and after the procedure?

Before the colonoscopy:

  • Consume only clear liquids the day prior to the procedure
  • Refrain from eating for at least 4 hours before the examination

After the colonoscopy:

  • Follow the doctor’s advice on when to resume eating
  • Focus on rehydration and maintaining a light diet initially

What are the best food and drink options after a colonoscopy?

Recommended beverages:

  • Water
  • Electrolyte-rich drinks like Gatorade
  • Vegetable and fruit juices
  • Herbal tea

Suitable light solid foods:

  • Popsicles
  • Crackers
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Applesauce
  • Soup
  • Pudding
  • Scrambled eggs
  • White toast

Sigmoidoscopy: Focused Examination of the Lower Colon

A sigmoidoscopy is similar to a colonoscopy but focuses specifically on examining the rectum’s lining and part of the large intestine. How does this procedure differ from a full colonoscopy?

  • Sedation is typically not required, although it can be administered if needed
  • The procedure is generally shorter, lasting about 10 to 20 minutes
  • It’s used to screen for abnormal cells, polyps, or cancer in the lower part of the colon

Dietary Guidelines for Sigmoidoscopy

The dietary preparation for a sigmoidoscopy may be similar to that of a colonoscopy, but with some specific considerations. What should patients keep in mind?

Before the sigmoidoscopy:

  • Avoid taking supplements for one week prior to the procedure
  • Start a low-residue diet consisting of:
    • Meat, poultry, and fish
    • Milk and yogurt
    • Cornflakes
    • Certain vegetables and fruits (as advised by the doctor)

After the sigmoidoscopy:

  • Patients can typically resume their normal diet when they feel able
  • It’s advisable to start with lighter foods and gradually return to regular eating habits

Enteroscopy: Exploring the Small Intestine

An enteroscopy is a specialized endoscopic procedure designed to examine the small intestine. This procedure can take anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours, depending on the specific method used.

Types of Enteroscopy

There are several methods for performing an enteroscopy. What are the main types?

  1. Balloon Enteroscopy:
    • Double-balloon enteroscopy: Uses two balloons that alternate inflation and deflation to move the endoscope through the small intestine
    • Single-balloon enteroscopy: Utilizes one balloon to attach an overtube to the small intestine, allowing the endoscope to move deeper inside
  2. Capsule Enteroscopy: Involves swallowing a small capsule containing a camera that captures images as it passes through the digestive tract

Why are enteroscopies performed? The primary purpose is often to locate the source of intestinal bleeding, which may not be visible during other endoscopic procedures.

Dietary Guidelines for Enteroscopy

The dietary preparations for an enteroscopy can vary depending on the specific type of procedure being performed. What general guidelines should patients follow?

Before the enteroscopy:

  • Fast for 8-12 hours prior to the procedure
  • Avoid certain medications as advised by the doctor
  • For capsule enteroscopy, a clear liquid diet may be required for 24 hours before the test

After the enteroscopy:

  • Follow the doctor’s instructions on when to resume eating and drinking
  • Start with clear liquids and gradually progress to solid foods
  • Avoid alcohol and carbonated beverages for at least 24 hours

The Importance of Proper Dietary Preparation for Endoscopic Procedures

Adhering to the recommended dietary protocols before and after endoscopic procedures is crucial for several reasons. Why is proper preparation so important?

  • Ensures clear visibility: A clean digestive tract allows for better visualization of the organs being examined
  • Reduces complications: Proper fasting reduces the risk of aspiration during the procedure
  • Improves accuracy: A well-prepared patient increases the likelihood of accurate diagnosis and successful treatment
  • Enhances recovery: Following post-procedure dietary guidelines helps minimize discomfort and promotes faster healing

How can patients ensure they’re following the correct dietary guidelines? It’s essential to:

  • Carefully read and follow all instructions provided by the healthcare team
  • Ask questions if any part of the preparation process is unclear
  • Inform the doctor about any dietary restrictions or health conditions that may affect the preparation
  • Stay hydrated within the allowed timeframes
  • Report any difficulties in following the preparation instructions to the medical team

Potential Risks and Complications of Endoscopic Procedures

While endoscopic procedures are generally safe, it’s important for patients to be aware of potential risks and complications. What are some of the possible issues that can arise?

  • Bleeding: Particularly if a biopsy is taken or polyps are removed
  • Infection: Although rare, there’s a small risk of introducing bacteria into the body
  • Perforation: In very rare cases, the endoscope may cause a tear in the organ being examined
  • Reaction to sedatives: Some patients may experience adverse effects from the medications used
  • Discomfort: Patients may experience bloating, gas, or mild pain after the procedure

How can patients minimize these risks?

  • Follow all pre-procedure instructions carefully, including dietary guidelines
  • Inform the medical team of all medications, supplements, and allergies
  • Report any unusual symptoms or discomfort during recovery
  • Adhere to post-procedure care instructions, including dietary recommendations

Innovations in Endoscopic Procedures and Their Impact on Dietary Protocols

The field of endoscopy is constantly evolving, with new technologies and techniques being developed. How are these innovations affecting dietary protocols for patients?

Some recent advancements include:

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) in endoscopy: AI-assisted systems can help detect abnormalities more accurately, potentially reducing the need for repeat procedures
  • Capsule endoscopy improvements: Enhanced imaging capabilities may allow for more comprehensive examinations with less stringent dietary preparations
  • Robotic-assisted endoscopy: This technology could lead to more precise procedures and potentially shorter recovery times

How might these innovations impact dietary guidelines?

  • More personalized preparation: AI could help tailor dietary protocols based on individual patient factors
  • Reduced preparation time: Advanced imaging techniques might allow for shorter fasting periods
  • Quicker return to normal diet: Less invasive procedures could mean faster recovery and earlier resumption of regular eating habits

As endoscopic technologies continue to advance, it’s likely that dietary protocols will evolve to become more efficient and patient-friendly. However, it’s crucial for patients to always follow the most current guidelines provided by their healthcare team, as these will be based on the specific procedure and equipment being used.

Dietary Protocols Before & After an Endoscopic Procedure

Seventy-five million endoscopic procedures are performed each year in the United States, of which 51.5 million are gastrointestinal endoscopies. While a colonoscopy may be the most common, with 19 million annually, there are several others, each requiring specialized dietary guidelines before and after the examination.   

What is an endoscopic procedure?

An endoscopic procedure is a medical imaging technique that utilizes an endoscope, a thin tube with a camera and light, to examine the interior of an organ or body cavity. These are not considered surgical, as they do not require incisions.

Endoscopies are generally conducted to determine the causes of symptoms, such as stomach pain, difficulty swallowing, digestive tract bleeding, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The inspection can identify diseases and disorders, including cancer, ulcers, gastroesophageal disease, inflammation, celiac disease, blockages, pancreatitis, internal bleeding, and precancerous abnormalities. It can also be used to collect samples for testing and treat digestive problems.

Types of Endoscopic Procedures & Their Dietary Guidelines

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)

An esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), also known as an upper endoscopy, explores the upper digestive or gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach and upper portion of the small intestine. Patients are usually given anesthetics, and the procedure typically lasts less than 30 minutes. 

EGDs can investigate abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing; find a cause of bleeding; detect ulcers, tumors, and inflammation; and conduct small biopsies.

Dietary Guidelines 

Prior to the EGD, patients cannot eat or drink for six to eight hours, and afterward should wait about an hour and only eat or drink when they can comfortably swallow. They should start off by sipping water. Patients should avoid consuming alcohol for 24 hours following the procedure, and eat easily digestible foods for 24 to 48 hours. Some options include soup, eggs, pudding, juice, and applesauce.

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is one of the most common endoscopies. It examines the lining of the large intestines, and sometimes, part of the small intestine. The endoscope is inserted through the rectum using anesthesia, and the procedure usually lasts about a half hour to an hour. 

A colonoscopy detects colorectal bleedings, Crohn’s disease, and colorectal cancer, to name a few ailments. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults ages 50 to 75 undergo colonoscopies regularly to screen for colorectal cancer, as on average, one in 23 men and women are at risk of developing colon cancer.

Dietary Guidelines 

Patients are instructed to consume only clear liquids the day prior to the procedure, and refrain from eating four hours beforehand. 

Afterward, a doctor may advise patients to stay away from food for several hours. Once the patient feels comfortable to eat, they will want to rehydrate and keep their diet light. After a colonoscopy, a patient should drink water, beverages containing electrolytes—such as Gatorade—vegetable and fruit juice, or herbal tea. Patients can consume light solids such as popsicles, crackers, mashed potatoes, applesauce, soup, pudding, scrambled eggs, and white toast. 

Sigmoidoscopy

The sigmoidoscopy is similar to a colonoscopy in that the endoscope is inserted through the rectum, but used to specifically examine its lining and just part of the large intestine. Also unlike a colonoscopy, sedation is unnecessary, but can be administered. The duration of the procedure is also typically shorter than a colonoscopy, totaling 10 to 20 minutes.

A sigmoidoscopy can be used to screen for abnormal cells, polyps, or cancer. 

Dietary Guidelines 

Prior to the sigmoidoscopy, diet preparation may be similar to that of a colonoscopy. Patients should avoid taking supplements one week beforehand, and start a low-residue diet of meat, poultry, fish, milk, yogurts, cornflakes, vegetables, and fruit. Afterward, they can begin eating normally when they feel able.  

Enteroscopy

An enteroscopy, which takes anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours, examines the small intestine, and can be completed using multiple methods, including balloon enteroscopy and capsule enteroscopy. These procedures are generally utilized to locate the source of intestinal bleeding. 

There are two types of balloon enteroscopy: double and single. A double-balloon enteroscopy, which requires sedation, uses two balloons that alternate inflation and deflation to move the endoscope in the small intestine. In a single-balloon enteroscopy, one balloon attaches an overtube to the small intestine, so the endoscope can move deeper inside. 

The capsule method, which does not require sedation, involves a patient swallowing a pill-like capsule with tiny cameras that takes and transmits photos of the digestive tract to a recorder. The capsule is later removed from the body through a bowel movement.

Dietary Guidelines 

Patients should avoid solid foods and non-clear liquids the night prior to this procedure, and avoid consuming anything four hours beforehand A particular diet may be prescribed by the doctor afterward, but it’s safe to start with a simple regimen of easily digestible foods.  

If you think you need an endoscopic procedure, or would like more information, contact us today. Gastroenterology Associates has been providing digestive care to patients for about 40 years. We are located next to Long Island Center for Digestive Health (LICDH), a New York State-licensed, non-hospital, outpatient facility dedicated to providing high-quality endoscopic services.

Topics:

gastroenterology associates,

colorectal cancer,

Long Island Center for Digestive Health,

endoscopy

What to Eat Before Endoscopy? A Complete Diet Plan 2023

Having an endoscopy scheduled anytime soon? One of the many questions that will arise in your mind will be what to eat before endoscopy?

If you have your endoscopy planned, you must only consume clear liquids for breakfast, such as water, apple juice, black coffee, black tea, or broth. Then you must start fasting. You should refrain from eating or drinking anything at least 6 hours before your examination.

In order for you to get the best results from endoscopy, your stomach must be completely empty. Food particles present in the stomach might cause potentially serious problems. They also raise the risk of choking during the evaluation.

As a result, it is critical that you carefully follow the dietary guidelines provided in this article.

What to Eat Before Endoscopy?

It is important to understand what to eat before endoscopy so you can prepare foods ahead of the procedure.

On the day before the endoscopy, you can eat solid food until midnight. After midnight, you can only drink clear liquids. You must stop drinking even clear fluids before 6 hours of the procedure.

Clear liquids that are allowed to drink are:

  1. Water
  2. Coconut water
  3. Gatorade
  4. Pedialyte or Powerade
  5. Coffee or tea (no milk or non-dairy creamer)
  6. Carbonated and non-carbonated soft drinks
  7. Kool-Aid or other fruit-flavored drinks
  8. Apple juice, White cranberry, or White grape juice
  9. Jell-O
  10. Popsicles
  11. Clear Broth
  12. Hard Candies

An empty stomach is required for a safe and thorough inspection; therefore, you should refrain from eating or drinking anything, including water, for around 6 hours before the procedure. This includes chewing gum and sweets.

On the other hand, having a sip of water with your normal medicines is OK.

Preparing for An Endoscopy

I understand how frightening preparing for endoscopy maybe for people at this time. My goal is to make this procedure as easy as it can be for you. Here are a few pointers to assist you in preparing for an endoscopy:

7 Days Before Your Procedure

  • Stop taking any multivitamins or supplements 7 days prior to the endoscopic procedure.
  • Avoid nuts and seeds
  • Avoid alcohol

1 Day Before Your Procedure

  • Stop consuming all solid foods before midnight on the day of examination.
  • Clear liquid fluids are recommended after midnight. Avoid consuming any red or purple drinks.
  • Do not consume any alcoholic beverages the day before or the day of the endoscopy.

The Day of Your Endoscopic Procedure

For a morning endoscopy:

  • After midnight, you are not allowed to have any solid foods if your endoscopy is scheduled early in the morning.
  • You are permitted to consume some clear drink such as water or apple juice along with any necessary medications up to 6 hours before your scheduled procedure.
  • Before 6 hours of your procedure, no chewing gum, ice, or sweets are permitted.

For an afternoon endoscopy:

  • You can have a light breakfast before 7 am if your endoscopy is scheduled in the afternoon.
  • You can take your usual medications in the morning.
  • Fluids that are clear in colors, such as water or apple juice, can be taken up to 4-6 hours before the scheduled endoscopy.

Clear Liquid Foods to Eat Before Endoscopy

A clear liquid diet is made of the majority of liquids that are easily visible through, such as water, broth, and plain gelatin. When consumed at body temperature, they are liquid and readily digested, and they leave no trace in the digestive tract.

In a procedure like an endoscopy, where solid food is not feasible to eat before the procedure, a clear liquid diet can assist in maintaining appropriate hydration. It also provides essential electrolytes such as salt and potassium. It can also offer some energy needed to prepare or recover from any surgical treatment.

Clear liquids that are recommended before endoscopy are listed below:

  1. Gummy bears
  2. Flavored gelatin or Jell-O (without fruit)
  3. Sports drinks that are crystal clear (Gatorade, Powerade, Propel)
  4. Pedialyte
  5. Juices that are clear (such as apple or white grape)
  6. A cup of coffee or tea (without cream or milk)
  7. Water (plain, seltzer, sparkling, or flavored)
  8. Coconut water
  9. Carbonated beverages
  10. Italian ice
  11. Popsicles or ice pops, and other frozen treats (no pureed fruit or fiber, no sherbet or gelato)
  12. Kool-Aid or other flavored drinks

To assist you in getting through the prep time of endoscopy, glasses of water, hard candies, lollipops, and menthol cough drops can come in handy.

You must follow a clear liquid diet up until 6 hours of endoscopy procedure. Do not drink anything that is not transparent. You can not drink anything that contains pulp, and you need to chew it in order to swallow it.

Smoothies, blended fruit, and vegetable beverages are not permitted at all. During the fasting period, no dairy products or non-dairy products such as almond milk, rice milk, or soymilk are permitted.

What Can You Eat the Day Before an Endoscopy?

Eat as much as you like or whatever you like the day before your endoscopy. You must keep the last meal very light to avoid any stomach distress.

However, you should refrain from eating or drinking anything for 6-8 hours prior to the procedure’s scheduled start time.

What Is A Light Breakfast Before Endoscopy?

A light breakfast may comprise 1 egg, cereal, or a slice of bread. Consuming fatty foods such as bacon or sausage is not advised.

A light breakfast before endoscopy means that you do not overeat.

Light breakfast consists of the following items:

  1. Clear liquids (explained above)
  2. Toast or bread with a little bit of butter or jam on it
  3. Applesauce
  4. Crackers
  5. Boiled Pasta
  6. Eggs

If you have your endoscopy scheduled in the afternoon, then you must have a light breakfast the morning before your examination.

You can eat cereal, toast, juice, coffee, tea, or soda. At the very least, you should have this meal 6-8 hours before your scheduled visit. Do not consume any liquids six hours before your procedure.

Why No Alcohol Before Endoscopy?

Generally, anesthesia and pain-relieving medicines are given before endoscopy. The use of strong medicines to inhibit processes such as breathing, heart rate, and blood circulation is used in general anesthesia. The same bodily systems are affected by alcohol.

All of these chemicals must be processed in the liver, which may be overburdened. Furthermore, both anesthetic medicines and alcohol might result in nausea and vomiting.

This may raise your chances of aspiration (inhaling vomit) during the endoscopic procedure, which can be dangerous or can prove fatal sometimes.

Also Read: What to Eat After Endoscopy?

Bottom Line

To have a better understanding of your upper digestive tract, your doctor suggests endoscopy. It is necessary to prepare well for an important examination such as this one.

It is critical to plan ahead of time for endoscopy to guarantee that the procedure goes successfully.

You must refrain from eating or drinking before your examination. It is important to follow the above-mentioned dietary recommendations to ensure an effective and successful examination.

Having food or fluids in the stomach during the endoscopy procedure might be fatal. If you vomit, it is possible that the liquids will enter your lungs and cause a blockage. You must notify the nurse if you forget and eat or drink something before your procedure so that she can reschedule your appointment.

If you have any queries that you have in mind, please leave them in the comments section below. I would love to assist you in every possible manner.

Madiha Saad

A nutrition degree holder and a foodie by heart, Madiha Saad loves to inspire people through her writings and uses her knowledge and experience to write articles on trending nutrition topics. She loves to develop new recipes in her pastime. Read More…

What can I eat before gastroscopy?

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What can I eat before gastroscopy?

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Oncologist, cardiologist, therapist

“What can I eat before gastroscopy?” is one of the common questions about the procedure.

Naturally, immediately before the examination itself, one should neither eat nor drink from the word at all. Otherwise, the whole point of the examination is reduced to zero – the doctor can look at food in the refrigerator.

In addition, food residues can provoke an increase in the gag reflex and a reflex release of contents. The question is, why complicate the life of yourself and the doctor?

The period of abstinence from taking any food is 8 hours.

Why so long?

To ensure that the stomach is emptied and that a good examination of the digestive organs is carried out.

If you have dysmotility or any changes in the gastric mucosa, then food stays in it longer than usual. You may not be aware of this at all.

Keep in mind that the feeling of hunger does not indicate that your stomach is empty. For example, signals to the hunger center in the brain may come from a drop in blood glucose levels (for example, you were engaged in intense mental work and exhausted the quickly available source of food for the brain). May be due to an emotional factor – remember how often we seize stress or negative emotions.

So, tune in to the fact that you will survive 8 hours without food. It is quite real and even beneficial for the body. Consider that you have arranged for yourself an easy fasting day.

If your examination is in the afternoon, you can have a light breakfast in the morning.

If the examination is in the morning, then your dinner should also be light. It is necessary to exclude spicy, heavy and high-calorie foods, as well as rough foods. Read more about what this kind of food includes in the article “What not to eat before gastroscopy.”

What can you eat before the “timer counts down”?

Only easily digestible food in small quantities. Ease of digestion is not the number of calories, but the time it takes the body to process this food. Everything that is processed quickly refers to easily digestible food.

For example, is your breakfast if the examination is scheduled for the evening of (at least 8 hours in advance).

  • image/svg+xmlbackgroundLayer 1 Option 1 – 100 grams of oatmeal (from flakes) or semolina in water without oil or weighting additives in the form of raisins / nuts.

  • image/svg+xmlbackgroundLayer 1 Option 2 – light beef (from lean meat) or chicken broth 100-150 grams. No bread, no spices.

  • image/svg+xmlbackgroundLayer 1 Option 3 is a light vegetable puree soup.

  • image/svg+xmlbackgroundLayer 1 Option 4 – jelly.

If the examination is in the morning, then dinner should also be light. You can eat what we recommended for breakfast.

Either soft stewed vegetables without skins or seeds (eg peeled zucchini, boiled carrots), a small piece of boiled or steamed fish. Also in a small amount – 100-200 grams.

Please note

Food restriction is not the only point in preparing for a gastroscopy.

Read the article “Gastroscopy of the stomach: how to prepare” carefully. There you will find a complete list of recommendations.

In addition, we have compiled for you convenient checklists for preparing for gastroscopy , depending on the time of appointment. You can download them in pdf, print and tick off the items.

View and download checklists here:

Preparation for gastroscopy in the morning

Preparation for gastroscopy in the afternoon

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how to prepare for EGD, diet before the study

Fibrogastroscopy is an informative examination method that helps to identify many pathologies of the digestive system in the initial stages. This enables the doctor to make an accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment strategy. Therefore, it is so important to carefully prepare for the procedure so as not to miss pathological areas.

Gastroscopy is a responsible procedure for which you need to prepare. It is especially important to follow all the rules on the eve of the examination. The information content and usefulness of the diagnosis depends on how physically and psychologically prepared a person is. In the article you will find complete information on how to prepare for the procedure.

What you need before the procedure

Fibrogastroscopy is prescribed to identify various pathologies of the digestive tract, including neoplasms, ulcers, inflammation. The reason may be the patient’s complaints of pain in the hypochondrium, epigastrium, heartburn, heaviness in the stomach. Other objective signs can also indicate stomach diseases, for example, anemia, pallor and peeling of the skin, and bad breath.

Counseling

Before the procedure, be sure to consult a gastroenterologist. He will find out and clarify complaints, prescribe or cancel medications that you take constantly. Before the procedure, the psychological mood is extremely important, so the doctor may prescribe sedatives, additional drugs to reduce pressure, if he notices signs of an unstable psyche, panic attacks.

The doctor will identify conditions that affect the choice of anesthetic drugs for FGDS. He will ask about hypersensitivity to medications used in gastroscopy, cholelithiasis (magnesium sulphate is contraindicated), the presence of glaucoma (atropine is contraindicated in this case), other pathologies, as well as pregnancy and lactation.

It is important to consult a gastroenterologist before fibrogastroscopy

Basic preparation rules

Get ready for FGDS in a day. During this time, reduce the load on the mucous membrane, gradually normalize the function of the digestive tract. Diet is the basis of preparation for gastroscopy.

In preparation for gastroscopy, it is important to follow a diet

Preparation for gastroscopy comes down to a few rules:

  1. Do not eat 12 hours before the procedure if it is in the morning and 8 hours if it is scheduled in the afternoon.
  2. Do not drink alcohol two days before the manipulation, as alcohol irritates the mucous membranes.
  3. You can drink 150 ml of water 2-4 hours before the test.
  4. Do not smoke on the day of the procedure, as nicotine stimulates the secretion of gastric juice.
  5. On the day of the procedure, do not use perfume, toilet water, deodorants, as fragrances can provoke vomiting.

Eliminate on the day of the procedure drugs that thin the blood and contain iron compounds. All other prescribed medications can be taken at the usual dosage, but be sure to minimize the amount of water you drink with them.

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Solovieva Eleonora Germanovna

Endoscopist half a day

If gastroscopy is scheduled in the morning, prepare in the evening.

Dinner includes meals that are easy to digest. Eat dinner no later than 4 hours before bedtime: at night, the secretory activity of the stomach decreases, and food is digested worse.

Foods that take longer to digest (such as meat) are best eaten for lunch. Fresh vegetable salads are not recommended to eat in the evening. If the gastroenterologist gave you a preliminary diagnosis of gastritis, gastroduodenitis or stomach ulcer, then the diet will become more rigid, with mechanical processing. Drinks for dinner should exclude gas formation. Herbal teas are preferable, for example, from chamomile, which relieves inflammation, green tea.

Lunch and breakfast on the eve of FGS should also consist of easily digestible dishes with maximum sparing of the gastric mucosa.

In the morning, any food is prohibited. If the procedure is performed under local anesthesia, drink no more than 150 ml of drinking water in 3-4 hours. Neither tea nor broth can be drunk at this time. If anesthesia is planned, then you can not drink at all. You can only take a few sips of water to wash down the pills prescribed by the doctor.

It is impossible to smoke on this day, so as not to cause the secretory activity of the stomach.

Choose from four breakfast options:

I variant

Breakfast

  1. Steamed protein omelet 200 g
  2. Fat-free kefir 250 ml.

II variant

Breakfast

  1. Fat-free yogurt 200 ml.
  2. Berry tea 250 ml.

III version

Breakfast

  1. Fat-free cottage cheese 250 ml.
  2. Rosehip decoction 250 ml.

IV variant

Breakfast

  1. Cottage cheese casserole 200 g
  2. Green tea 250 ml.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner on the eve of FGS should consist of easily digestible products

Features of preparation for the procedure scheduled for the afternoon

If gastroscopy is scheduled for the evening, then the day before the diet should also consist of easily digestible dishes. Unlike the morning procedure, in this case, dinner can be more dense, but breakfast can be as light as possible.

Calculate your own meal times. Drink and eat no later than 8 hours before the procedure. During the daytime, the stomach and intestines work more actively, so the time interval between meals and FGS can be reduced. For example, if FGDS is scheduled for 3 pm, then the last meal should be no later than 7 am. Include fat-free cottage cheese or oatmeal (Hercules cereal), tea in such a breakfast. Further, during the day you can only drink water, any drinks are excluded, including decoctions and tea. 3 hours before gastroscopy, even water should not be drunk.

Choose from four dinner options:

I variant

Dinner

  1. Boiled cod 150 g
  2. Boiled broccoli 200 g.
  3. Berry tea 250 ml

II variant

Dinner

  1. Baked saury 150 g
  2. Stewed zucchini 200 g.