Avocados Before Colonoscopy
Avocados should be avoided on the day before colonoscopy as they are considered a high-fiber food that falls under the low-residue diet restrictions recommended by the American Gastroenterological Association. 1
Dietary Framework for Colonoscopy Preparation
The American Gastroenterological Association provides clear guidance that dietary modifications should be limited to the day before colonoscopy for patients at low risk for inadequate bowel preparation. 1 This means:
- No dietary restrictions are needed 2-3 days before the procedure - you can eat normally including avocados during this time period 1, 2
- On the day before colonoscopy, switch to a low-residue/low-fiber diet for early and midday meals 1, 2
- Transition to clear liquids only for the evening meal and continue until the procedure 1
Why Avocados Are Restricted
Avocados contain significant dietary fiber (approximately 7-10 grams per avocado) and should be avoided on the day before colonoscopy because:
- The American Gastroenterological Association specifically recommends avoiding high-fiber foods such as raw or dried fruits and vegetables on the day before colonoscopy 1, 2
- Research has demonstrated that vegetables consumed on the day before colonoscopy are inversely associated with bowel preparation quality scores 3
- Low-residue diets exclude high-fiber foods to minimize residue in the colon that could interfere with visualization 1
Evidence-Based Timeline
3 days before: Eat normally, including avocados - no restrictions needed 1, 3
2 days before: Eat normally, including avocados - additional days of dietary restrictions confer no benefit 1, 2
1 day before (day before procedure):
- Morning and midday meals: Low-residue/low-fiber diet only - avoid avocados 1, 2
- Evening meal: Clear liquids only 1
Day of procedure: Clear liquids only until procedure 1
Important Nuances
Research supports this approach, with a 2018 study finding no association between foods consumed 2-3 days before colonoscopy and bowel preparation quality. 3 However, the same study found that vegetables consumed on the day before colonoscopy were associated with poorer preparation quality. 3
For patients at high risk for inadequate bowel preparation (history of constipation, diabetes, prior poor preparation), the American Gastroenterological Association recommends an even more restrictive approach with clear liquids only for the entire day before colonoscopy. 1 In these cases, avocados should be avoided starting 2 days before the procedure.
Common Pitfall to Avoid
The most common mistake is unnecessarily restricting diet for more than one day before colonoscopy, which reduces patient compliance without improving outcomes. 1, 2 Don't avoid avocados for multiple days - only restrict them on the day immediately before your procedure.