Colonoscopy Prep — Beyda Gastro in Queens, NY

Preparing properly for your colonoscopy is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure a safe, accurate, and comfortable procedure. I’m Dr. David Beyda, and these instructions are designed to guide you through every stage of your colonoscopy preparation — so that your exam provides the clearest possible results.

A clean colon allows me to detect and remove even the smallest polyps before they become a problem. Please read these directions carefully and follow each step as outlined. If you have any questions or medical conditions that could affect your prep, contact my office at (718) 461-6161 before your procedure. My staff and I are here to help you every step of the way.

Preparing for a Colonoscopy

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that allows your gastroenterologist to examine the inside of your large intestine (colon) and rectum using a thin, flexible camera called a colonoscope. During the procedure, Dr. Beyda carefully inspects the lining of your colon for polyps, inflammation, ulcers, or other abnormalities. Detecting and removing polyps during this exam helps prevent colorectal cancer and other digestive diseases.

How long does a colonoscopy take?

The procedure itself usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You’ll also need about one to two hours for preparation and recovery time at the office. You’ll be sedated for comfort, and a responsible adult must drive you home afterward.

How often should you get a colonoscopy?

People at average risk should begin colonoscopy screening at age 45. If you have certain risk factors—such as a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps—you may need to start earlier or be screened more frequently. During your visit, Dr. Beyda will review your medical history and create a screening schedule that’s right for you.

What can you eat before a colonoscopy?

  • Two days before: Follow a low-residue (low-fiber) diet, avoiding raw fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seeds, and nuts.

  • One day before: Switch to a clear-liquid diet. You may have clear broths, strained juices, sports drinks, gelatin, water, and plain tea or coffee (without milk or creamer).
    These steps help ensure your colon is completely clean for accurate results.

How do you prepare for a colonoscopy?

Proper preparation is key to a successful procedure. Follow Dr. Beyda’s detailed colonoscopy preparation instructions for your specific appointment time and medications. These instructions explain what to eat, when to take your prep solution, and how to arrive ready for your exam.

Have you arranged for a ride home after your procedure?
You must have a responsible adult available to take you home after your colonoscopy. If you haven’t arranged for someone yet, please contact our office as soon as possible to make safe transportation plans.

Low-Residue Diet (2 Days Before Colonoscopy)

Two days before your colonoscopy, begin a low-residue (low-fiber) diet. This helps clear the digestive tract and improves the accuracy of your procedure.

Eat only foods from the approved list below, and avoid all foods and drinks not listed.

Approved Beverages

  • Water

  • Coffee or tea (without milk or creamer)

  • Clear carbonated drinks

  • Juice without pulp (apple juice is fine)

Approved Breads and Cereals

  • White bread, toast, rolls, pancakes, bagels, or English muffins

  • Choose items without nuts, seeds, fruit pieces, or whole grains

Approved Meats, Fish, Poultry, and Eggs

  • Well-cooked lean meats such as beef, ham, poultry, or fish

  • Egg whites or plain eggs prepared without added vegetables or cheese

Do Not Eat or Drink

Avoid all of the following until after your procedure:

  • Fruits and vegetables (raw or cooked)

  • Salads or smoothies

  • Beans, peas, seeds, and nuts

  • Dairy products, including milk, cheese, and yogurt

Clear-Liquid Diet (1 Day Before Colonoscopy)

The day before your colonoscopy, you must follow a clear-liquid diet only. This ensures your colon is clean and allows Dr. Beyda to clearly view the lining of your intestine during the procedure.

Drink plenty of clear fluids throughout the day to stay hydrated, but avoid anything red or purple, which can look like blood during the exam.

Approved Clear Liquids

  • Water

  • Clear broths (chicken, beef, or vegetable)

  • Pulp-free juices (apple, white grape, or lemonade without pulp)

  • Clear sports drinks (such as lemon-lime or orange flavors that are not red or purple)

  • Plain tea or black coffee (no milk, cream, or nondairy creamer)

  • Clear sodas (ginger ale, lemon-lime, club soda)

  • Gelatin (Jell-O or similar — no red or purple)

  • Ice pops made from clear liquids (no red or purple coloring)

Not Approved

Avoid the following on the day before your procedure:

  • Milk or any dairy products

  • Cream or nondairy creamers

  • Smoothies or juices with pulp

  • Alcohol

  • Any red or purple liquids

Important Notes

  • Start your bowel prep as instructed by Dr. Beyda’s office — usually in the evening before your procedure.

  • Continue drinking only clear liquids until the specified cut-off time on the day of your colonoscopy.

  • Staying hydrated will help make the prep easier and more effective.