Colonoscopies are an incredibly important test for detecting and diagnosing many diseases, and yet the preparation process and all that it entails puts many people off from following through, including the restrictions during the 48 hours leading up to the procedure. One of those restrictions is the issue or drinking coffee before a colonoscopy. Given that coffee is a staple of many people’s diet, it is only natural to inquire as to whether it is possible to drink coffee in the lead up to the procedure.
Most medical professionals advise against drinking coffee before a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is an endoscopic examination of the entire large bowel which requires being completely empty so that the doctor can get a clear view of the lining to detect anything out of the ordinary. Coffee is a stimulant and as such it can lead to the bowels moving faster than usual and prevent the desired state of cleanliness from being reached.
Before this test, participants must consume large quantities of fluids and perform a unique type of cleaning and enema for the bowel to be completely empty. This adds to the medical credit of avoiding coffee as it can induce bowel movement, severely disrupting the testing process.
Medical experts also advise that coffee has a high level of caffeine, which is a pain reliever and stimulant. The caffeine found in coffee can result in unpleasant side-effects such as heart valves and other parts of the cardiovascular system. It can also irritate the stomach, say doctors.
It is also advised to avoid taking multivitamins or iron supplements with coffee as it can affect the absorption rate of those particular nutrients, impairing the effectiveness of the colonoscopy testing process. So if you are due for a colonoscopy, it is best to avoid drinking a cup of coffee the day before.
Effects of too Much Coffee
When it comes to coffee consumption, moderation is key. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, consuming up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day is considered safe for healthy adults. However, drinking more than this can have some major effects such as insomnia, irritability, disorderly heart palpitations and even nausea.
Caffeine can also increase the level of acid in the stomach and interfere with the normal contraction and relaxation of the intestine. This can lead to digestive issues that make it harder to pass bowel movements and therefore harder to get a clear view of the lining during a colonoscopy.
Moreover, overconsumption of coffee can lead to dehydration, and that is in direct conflict with what is expected of a person before a colonoscopy since you are asked to drink a lot of fluid to help prepare for the test. It is therefore more relevant to avoid drinking large amounts of coffee the day before a colonoscopy.
Health Benefits of Coffee
Coffee consumed in moderation comes with its own set of health benefits. According to a Harvard University study, those who are consistent with their coffee habits and consume between 3 to 5 cups of coffee daily can benefit in a number of ways.
For starters, moderate coffee consumption can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by up to 30 percent and reduce the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease by up to 30 percent too. Caffeine also has the potential to improve physical performance and reduce the risk of depression, Alzheimer’s disease and cavities.
Furthermore, coffee is known to be a major source of antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that can protect cells from the damage caused by molecules called free radicals. When higher levels of antioxidants are present in the body, the risk of a number of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease and cancer, can be reduced.
Coffee Alternatives for Colonoscopy Preparation
If coffee is not an option in the days leading up to a colonoscopy, there are some alternatives depending on the individual and their taste. For instance, decaffeinated or herbal teas still contain antioxidants but no caffeine whatsoever.
Fruit juices like orange and grapefruit juices, as well as cranberry juice are all excellent sources of vitamins and are recommended as a better option. Coconut water is another excellent alternative as it is a source of electrolytes and is hydrating as well. Lastly, smoothies are a great option, as they consist of a combination of fruits and vegetables, and are full of essential vitamins, minerals and fibers.
Conclusion
Whether people are looking to follow the prescribed restrictions before a colonoscopy or just drink coffee moderately, the key is moderation. Consuming up to 4 cups of coffee a day can be beneficial for healthy adults and it’s advised not to exceed this amount. However, it is best to abstain altogether the day before a colonoscopy as it can disrupt the process of the test and cause some unwanted side-effects.
Coffee and Cancer Risk
While moderate amounts of coffee can bring some health benefits, an excessive amount can have the opposite effect and even increase cancer risk. Studies have shown that coffee consumption can lead to an increase in the levels of estrogen found in the blood. While estrogen can have positive properties for the body, too much of it can increase the risk of breast, ovarian, and uterine cancer.
Therefore, for those who prefer drinking coffee and are about to have a colonoscopy, the best advice is to reduce the amount of coffee you’re consuming and to find alternatives that don’t have stimulating effects.
Coffee and Bowel Movements
Aside from cancer risk, coffee can also cause disruptions to the bowel movements, making it hard to perform a colonoscopy. Due to the stimulating effect of caffeine, coffee can act as a laxative and cause bowel movements to happen too quickly. This can make it hard to pass the test as the bowels may not be emptied properly by the time the colonoscopy is administered.
Not only that, but coffee can also increase the pressure in the stomach and induce gas, which can also disrupt the colonoscopy process. Therefore, it is advised to stay away from coffee for the 48 hours leading up to the test.
Practical Advice for Colonoscopies
For those getting a colonoscopy, it is best to steer clear from coffee, at least throughout the 48 hours before the procedure. Moreover, it is also very important to avoid other foods that can make the stomach produce too much acid, such as chocolate and spicy foods.
It is also important to drink the prescribed amount of fluids during the preparation process and to avoid any diuretics such as tea,certain fruits and some sparkling drinks. This will help to ensure that the bowel is clean and empty before the day of the procedure.
Finally, it is always best to consult a trusted medical professional to know exactly what to do and what to avoid in the days leading up to a colonoscopy.
