Can I Eat Tuna Fish Before a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a common medical procedure where a tiny camera is inserted into your colon to screen for colon cancer and other gastrointestinal issues. For the colonoscopy to be effective, your colon must be completely empty and cleaned out. This requires following a restricted diet in the days leading up to the procedure. So can you eat tuna fish before a colonoscopy?

The answer is yes tuna fish is generally allowed in the days before a colonoscopy. Read on to learn more about why tuna can be eaten along with other diet tips for prepping for your colonoscopy.

Why a Restricted Diet is Needed Before a Colonoscopy

Before a colonoscopy, you will be asked to follow a low residue, low fiber diet This means restricting foods that are high in fiber, fat or roughage that can leave residue in your colon.

The goal is to limit the amount of stool matter in your colon so that the doctor can get optimal visibility during the procedure. Foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds, red meat, fried foods etc. are typically eliminated or reduced.

You’ll also have to drink a bowel prep solution that flushes out stool and debris from your colon. The combination of the liquid diet and colon cleanse ensures your colon is sparkling clean for the colonoscopy.

Why Tuna Fish is Allowed

Now let’s discuss why tuna fish is permitted in the limited pre-colonoscopy diet:

• Low fiber – Unlike fruits, vegetables and whole grains, tuna is low in fiber content which makes it less likely to add residue to the colon.

• Low fat – The fat content in tuna is relatively low compared to red meats and fried foods which need to be avoided. The fat in tuna is the heart healthy omega-3 fatty acids.

• Easily digestible – As a white fish, tuna contains protein that is usually gentle on the digestive system and less likely to cause issues.

• Soft, flaky texture – The soft texture of tuna means it is less abrasive and does not irritate the colon lining before the procedure.

• Packed in water – Tuna canned in water has minimal added fat, salt or other ingredients. Choosing tuna packed in oil is not recommended before a colonoscopy due to the higher fat content.

As long as you choose tuna canned in water and limit added sauces or oils, it can be included in the days leading up to your colonoscopy. Some doctors may still recommend avoiding all fish and seafood, so always follow the specific diet guidelines provided by your physician.

Sample Low Residue, Low Fiber Diet Before a Colonoscopy

To give you an idea of what kinds of foods are allowed on a colonoscopy prep diet, here is a sample menu:

Breakfast:

• Scrambled eggs or plain omelette

• White toast or low-fiber cereal

• Tea or coffee (no milk)

• Fruit juice without pulp

Lunch:

• Tuna salad sandwich on white bread

• Chicken noodle soup

• Flavored gelatin or fruit sorbet

Dinner:

• Grilled chicken breast

• White rice or plain pasta

• Steamed carrots, pumpkin or zucchini

• Tea or flavored water

Snacks:

• Low-fat yogurt or cottage cheese

• Smooth peanut butter with crackers

• Popsicles or ice cream

• Apple sauce

Foods to Avoid Before Colonoscopy

To summarize, here are the main categories of foods to restrict in your diet before a colonoscopy:

• Whole grains like brown rice, whole wheat bread, oatmeal

• Fruits and vegetables with skin, seeds or membranes

• Dried fruits and prunes

• Nuts, seeds and popcorn

• Legumes like beans and lentils

• Fatty, fried foods like burgers or fries

• Tough fibrous meats with gristle

• High fat dairy like cheese, ice cream

• Alcoholic beverages

Stick to a simple diet of tender meats, white bread, low-fat dairy, broths, juice without pulp and avoid the high fiber foods above.

Sample Menu for the Day Before Colonoscopy

The day before your colonoscopy, you’ll be limited to clear liquids only while doing your bowel prep. Here’s a sample menu:

Breakfast:

• Apple juice

• Jello

• Tea with honey

Lunch:

• Chicken broth

• Plain gelatin

• Flavored water

Dinner:

• Vegetable broth

• Plain popsicles

• Cranberry juice

Snacks:

• Clear sodas

• Black coffee

• Iced tea

Only consume approved clear liquids according to your doctor’s instructions on the day before your colonoscopy. Avoid solid foods, milk, pulp juices and red colored liquids.

Tips for Eating Tuna Before Your Colonoscopy

If you plan on eating tuna before your colonoscopy, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose tuna canned in water, not oil

• Limit added mayonnaise, oils or creamy sauces

• Avoid tuna salads with veggies like celery or relish

• Stick to 1-2 servings of 2-3 oz tuna per day

• Eat tuna earlier in the week, not the day before

• Stop tuna at least 2 days before if you have an allergy or sensitivity

• Always follow your doctor’s specific diet guidelines

With some care when choosing and preparing it, tuna fish can be included in moderation in your pre-colonoscopy diet.

Are There Any Risks from Eating Tuna?

Some potential risks with eating tuna before a colonoscopy include:

• Mercury exposure if eating excessive amounts

• Allergies or sensitivities to fish/seafood

• Gastrointestinal issues if your body is sensitive

• Interactions with other medications

To be safe, limit tuna intake to no more than 2-3 modest servings per week. Stop eating tuna at least 2 days before the procedure if you suspect any sensitivities. Check with your doctor about any medication interactions.

In conclusion, tuna fish is generally allowed in a low residue diet before a colonoscopy procedure. Canned tuna packed in water is a good protein source that is low in fiber and fat. Follow the prescribed diet and limit tuna servings to 2-3 per week. Avoid tuna salads or oils. Stick to only clear liquids the day before your colonoscopy as instructed. If you have any concerns, be sure to check with your gastroenterologist for personalized diet advice before your colonoscopy.