What Is the Prep for an Endoscopy? Complete Diet & Prep Rules 2025 | Bestwrites
Preparing for an endoscopy can feel stressful if you have never had the procedure before, but with the proper instructions, the process is simple and predictable. Your doctor needs a clear view of your digestive tract, which means the foods you eat, the liquids you drink, and the timing of your fasting all play an essential role. This 2025 Complete Endoscopy Prep Guide from Bestwrites explains the diet rules, fasting steps, medication instructions, and safety requirements you should follow before your test.
Why Endoscopy Prep Is Important
An upper endoscopy (also called an EGD) lets your doctor examine your esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine using a thin scope with a camera. Because even small amounts of food can block the view or increase risk during sedation, proper preparation is required.
Correct prep ensures:
Clear visibility during the exam
Accurate diagnosis
Lower risk of complications
A smoother, faster procedure
Reduced chance of needing to repeat the test
Following each rule carefully is the best way to protect your health and get reliable results.
2025 Endoscopy Prep Steps: What You Must Do
The instructions below reflect the most common, up-to-date prep guidelines used in 2025. Your doctor may adjust these based on your medical history.
1. Give Your Full Medical History
Before your procedure, your healthcare team will ask about:
Prescription and over-the-counter medications
Allergies
Heart or lung conditions
Bleeding disorders
Diabetes
Past surgeries
Previous issues with anesthesia
This information helps the doctor select the safest sedation plan and determine whether medications need temporary changes.
2. Follow Medication Rules Carefully
Some medications can affect sedation, bleeding risk, or digestive function. Your doctor may adjust:
Blood thinners: May be paused or changed in dose
Diabetes medications: Often adjusted due to fasting
Iron supplements: Usually stopped to improve visibility
NSAIDs: Sometimes limited before the procedure
Heart medications: Used as directed with special timing
Never change or stop medication without direct instruction from your medical provider.
Diet Rules for Endoscopy Prep (2025 Guide)
One of the most important steps is switching to the right diet before you begin fasting. Most clinics recommend a light, low-fiber diet the day before the procedure.
Foods You CAN Eat
Scrambled or boiled eggs
Yogurt (if allowed)
Clear soup or broth
White toast or white rice
Plain pasta
Applesauce
Bananas
Soft, easy-to-digest foods
Foods You Should AVOID
Raw fruits and vegetables
Beans, nuts, and seeds
Whole-grain breads or cereals
Tough or greasy meats
Spicy or heavy meals
Red or purple foods and beverages
Eating lightly helps your stomach empty more easily and reduces discomfort during fasting.
Fasting Instructions for 2025
Fasting is required so your stomach is empty during the procedure.
1. Stop eating solid food 8–12 hours before your appointment.
This includes gum, mints, candy, and snacks.
2. Clear liquids are allowed until 2–4 hours before the test.
Approved clear liquids include:
Water
Clear electrolyte drinks
Apple juice
Tea or black coffee (no cream or milk)
Clear broth
Avoid dairy, smoothies, soda, drinks with pulp, and anything red or purple.
Your doctor will give exact fasting times based on when your endoscopy is scheduled.
Stay Hydrated Before the Fasting Window
Hydration makes the prep process easier. Drinking clear liquids before your cutoff time:
Prevents dehydration
Helps reduce nausea
Makes IV placement easier
Keeps you more comfortable overall
Do not wait until the last minute—drink steadily throughout the day before fasting.
Arrange Transportation for After the Procedure
Sedation affects coordination, judgment, and reaction time. Because of this, you cannot drive yourself home after an endoscopy. You will need:
A responsible adult to drive you
Someone available to stay with you if recommended
Without a ride, the clinic may postpone the procedure for safety reasons.
Day-of-Procedure Prep Checklist
To make your appointment go smoothly:
Arrive 20–30 minutes early
Bring your ID, insurance card, and medication list
Wear comfortable clothing
Remove jewelry before arriving
Follow all fasting rules exactly
During the procedure, you will receive sedation through an IV. The doctor will gently guide the endoscope through your mouth. The exam typically lasts 10–20 minutes, and most patients remember very little.
After the Endoscopy
After the procedure, you will rest in a recovery area until the sedation wears off. Mild symptoms such as a sore throat, gas, or tiredness are normal.
Aftercare Tips
Start with clear liquids
Add soft foods as you feel comfortable
Rest for the remainder of the day
Avoid alcohol, driving, or important decisions for 24 hours
Call your doctor right away if you experience strong pain, vomiting, fever, or breathing problems.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what the prep is for an endoscopy helps ensure a safe, smooth procedure and accurate results. These 2025 diet rules and prep guidelines from Bestwrites offer a simple, step-by-step way to get ready for your appointment. By following your doctor’s instructions and preparing ahead of time, you can feel confident going into your endoscopy.
