Better clear liquid diet for Colonoscopy preparation

Colonoscopy or endoscopy of colon (large intestine) is often dreaded by some. Colonoscopy is also called lower GI scope and is different from barium enema. Colonic cleaning and clear liquid diet is needed as part preparation as a prelude to colonoscopy. Colonoscopy as well as barium enema patients go through this misery of colonoscopy preparation on liquids like water or clear juices, carbonated beverages, electrolyte-rich sports drinks like Gatorade ®, flavored drinks e.g. Crystal-Light ®, Jello, sorbet and plain tea/coffee.

Lesser known fact is that there are clear nutritional supplements available that serve the purpose equally well and you would be less hungry since they also provide nutrition. These include Enlive ® (ww.rosstore.com), ResourceBreeze ® (ww.novartisnutrition.com) and Carnation Instant Breakfast ® juice drink (www. Nestle-nutrition.com). Do not use regular Carnation Instant breakfast as part of clear liquid diet.

Mix-and-match the clear liquids with the clear liquids nutritional supplements and try your tasty mixed drinks such as slushies, ice-pops etc.

Caution: do not use anything any red, purple liquids.

Have you or someone you know has had a colonoscopy? What was your experience with clear liquid diet prior to the exam? Could you suggest some recipes employing above components that the readers could use to make their pre-colonoscopy experience better?