Colonoscopy Prep: Understanding Clear Liquid Diets & Red Juice

Before colonoscopy, patients follow a clear liquid diet. Red/purple liquids are avoided because they can stain the colon mucosa, mimicking blood or lesions and obscuring visualization.

Approved clear liquids: water, clear broth, clear juice (apple, white grape), tea/coffee (no creamer), gelatin (not red/purple), sports drinks (clear/yellow), popsicles (clear/yellow).