After a colonoscopy, it is important to slowly return to a normal diet, taking care not to overtax the intestines. Choosing the right foods can speed up the recovery process and ensure comfort after the test.
Gentle products for the stomach
People struggling with stomach problems should pay special attention to what they eat. Choosing the right foods can help relieve symptoms and support stomach health.
Lean meats
Lean meats, such as turkey, chicken and veal, are easy to digest and don’t strain the stomach. It’s a good idea to avoid fatty meats and choose boiled or roasted ones over fried ones.
Fish
Fish, such as cod or tuna, are rich in protein and at the same time gentle on the stomach. It is worth including them in your diet while avoiding fatty fish.
Fruits and vegetables
Some fruits and vegetables can be difficult to digest, so it’s a good idea to eat them without skins and seeds. Cooked vegetables are usually easier to digest than raw ones.
Fermented products
Fermented products, such as yogurts and kefirs, can support gut and stomach health due to their probiotic content.
Avoid spices and fatty foods
Spices, especially spicy ones, can irritate the stomach. Fatty foods can lead to feelings of heaviness and bloating. Therefore, it is a good idea to limit them in your diet.
Water and hydration
Colonoscopy is a test that allows a thorough examination of the large intestine. However, before performing this test, the patient must prepare properly, which often involves taking laxatives. These agents, while necessary for the examination, can lead to dehydration. This is why hydration after colonoscopy is so important.
Dehydration after colonoscopy
Laxatives, which are used before colonoscopy, are designed to completely cleanse the colon of food debris. However, a large amount of water is also removed along with the intestinal contents, which can lead to dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration include dry mouth, a feeling of thirst, decreased urine output and headaches.
Importance of hydration
Hydration after colonoscopy is crucial for the body’s rapid recovery. Water is essential for many processes in our bodies, including the proper functioning of the digestive system. In addition, hydration helps eliminate toxins from the body and promotes the regeneration of the intestinal mucosa.
So what to drink after a colonoscopy?
You should not be limited to drinking water only. You should also reach for a variety of colorless liquids, such as herbal teas. Avoid carbonated drinks and those containing caffeine, which can further irritate the stomach and intestines.
Avoid bloating foods
Products such as cabbage, broccoli and beans can cause bloating and discomfort in the intestines. After a colonoscopy, it’s a good idea to eliminate them from your diet for at least a few days.
Probiotics for intestinal health
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, in adequate amounts, benefit the health of the host. They are essential for the proper functioning of the digestive system, and their regular consumption can bring many benefits to intestinal health.
Beneficial effects on relieving IBS symptoms
Probiotics have a very beneficial effect on relieving the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). They help fight off pathogenic bacteria that are harmful to the intestines, which can help reduce discomforts such as abdominal pain, bloating and irregular bowel movements.
Rebuilding intestinal flora
Probiotics help rebuild the intestinal flora and restore its physiological balance. As a result, they can support intestinal health by improving digestion and nutrient absorption, as well as protecting against infections and inflammation.
Support for the immune system
By adhering to intestinal epithelial cells, probiotics inhibit the penetration of allergens and reduce allergy symptoms. They can also strengthen defense systems against various pathogens, resulting in an overall improvement in the body’s immunity.
Choosing the right probiotic
There are various probiotic preparations on the market, which differ in composition and purpose. It is important to choose a probiotic tailored to individual needs. Some of them contain strains of bacteria such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis or Bifidobacterium, which are particularly beneficial for intestinal health.
Products to avoid
Colonoscopy is an invasive test that allows for a thorough examination of the large intestine. In order for the examination to be effective, the patient must properly prepare for it, which involves taking laxatives. After the test, it is important to take care of a proper diet that will not stress the intestines and will aid their recovery.
Heavily digestible foods and colonoscopy
After a colonoscopy, it is advisable to avoid foods that are hard to digest, which can stress the digestive system. Such foods include fried dishes, fatty meats or foods with a lot of spices.
Fatty and fried foods
Fatty foods and those prepared by frying can further irritate the intestines. It is worth eliminating them from your diet for at least a few days after the test.
Spicy spices at a laparoscopy
Spicy spices, such as chili and pepper, can cause a burning sensation and irritation of the intestines. That’s why it’s a good idea to limit them in your diet after a colonoscopy.
Alcohol and colonoscopy
Alcohol can further irritate the stomach and intestines, so it is worth avoiding it for at least a few days after the test.
Carbonated products
Carbonated beverages can cause bloating and a feeling of heaviness in the stomach. Therefore, it is worth eliminating them from your diet after colonoscopy.
Summary – diet after colonoscopy
The diet after colonoscopy should be gentle and tailored to the individual needs of the patient. It is important to keep the body hydrated, avoid bloating products and support intestinal regeneration with probiotics. Remember to always consult your doctor about your diet after the test.
The above article is not medical advice. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before following the diet.