Can I Eat Salmon Before a Colonoscopy? A Helpful Guide

If you have an upcoming colonoscopy, you’ve probably wondered what foods are off limits during the preparation period. Salmon is delicious and nutritious, but can you enjoy it leading up to your procedure?

I’ve undergone three colonoscopies in the past five years. The first time, I was confused about what I could eat so I stuck to bland foods like boiled chicken and white rice. But for my more recent colonoscopies I learned I can still eat flavorful, energizing meals like salmon.

In this article, I’ll share what I’ve learned about eating salmon before a colonoscopy I’ll cover when you need to stop eating it, how to prepare it during the prep phase, recipe ideas, and more tips to make the process easier

When Do You Have to Stop Eating Salmon Before a Colonoscopy?

The preparation for a successful colonoscopy requires days of strict dietary changes. Here’s a timeline for when you’ll need to eliminate salmon as you get closer to your procedure

• 1 week before – Continue eating salmon and other protein foods normally.

• 3 days before – Reduce overall fat, oil and butter intake but small amounts of baked or grilled salmon are still okay.

• 2 days before – Stop eating all red meat, salmon, tuna and fatty fish. Switch to lean poultry and plant proteins.

• 1 day before – Follow only clear liquid diet and colonoscopy prep instructions. No solid foods including salmon.

So you can enjoy salmon right up until 2 days before the big procedure. Then it’s best to avoid it and stick to light, easy-to-digest foods.

Why Avoid Salmon Right Before a Colonoscopy?

Reducing fiber intake is the main goal during colonoscopy prep since fiber can obstruct the view of your colon. But why avoid healthy salmon too? Here are a few reasons:

• Fat content – High-fat foods like salmon are harder to digest and can leave residue in your colon.

• Protein digestion – Protein takes longer to digest compared to simple carbs and liquids.

• Potential allergies – Some patients may have undiagnosed seafood allergies that could interfere with the colonoscopy.

• Mercury levels – Large fish like salmon can contain heavy metals that are discouraged right before a procedure.

So while salmon is extremely healthy, it’s best to avoid it for a few days before your colonoscopy when a clear colon is vital.

Best Fish Options Before a Colonoscopy

If you’re used to getting your protein from seafood, here are some lighter fish options that are safer leading up to a colonoscopy:

• Tilapia
• Sole
• Cod
• Flounder
• Snapper
• Mahi mahi
• Catfish
• Trout

Aim for 4-6 ounces of these more digestible, low-fat fish two days before your prep starts. Then switch to lean poultry and easily digestible vegetarian proteins.

Benefits of Eating Salmon Earlier in Prep Phase

While you do need to cut out salmon a couple days before your colonoscopy, eating it earlier in the prep phase offers some benefits:

• Omega-3s – Salmon’s anti-inflammatory fats can help soothe intestinal irritation and diarrhea from the colon cleanse.

• Protein – High quality protein keeps you stronger as you transition to a restricted diet.

• Low fiber – Compared to plant proteins, salmon doesn’t have irritating fiber.

• Lean protein – Provides protein before going to only clear liquids.

Just be mindful of portion size, and avoid adding fatty sauces or condiments.

Tips for Preparing Salmon Before a Colonoscopy

Here are some colonoscopy prep-friendly tips for cooking salmon before you have to cut it out completely:

• Choose wild caught Alaskan salmon for lowest mercury and contaminants

• Roast, bake, or grill salmon instead of frying in oil or butter

• Season lightly with herbs, citrus, garlic, pepper – avoid creamy sauces

• Cook until salmon flakes easily with a fork to ensure it’s done

• Check for bones and remove before eating to prevent injury or obstruction

• Stick to 4-6 ounces to limit fat intake but still get protein

• Pair with non-red meat proteins early in the week like chicken or turkey

Sample Menu with Salmon Before a Colonoscopy

Here’s a sample light menu with salmon you could enjoy 4-5 days before your colonoscopy prep begins:

Breakfast:

• Scrambled egg whites
• Toast with jam
• Melon cubes
• Decaf tea

Lunch:

• Salmon salad – 4oz grilled salmon, greens, carrots, vinaigrette
• Baked sweet potato
• Clear soup
• Water

Dinner:

• 4oz baked salmon
• 1⁄2 cup brown rice
• Steamed asparagus and broccoli
• Apple sauce
• Herbal tea

As you get closer to prep day, swap out the salmon for chicken, tofu or eggs to lighten things up.

Recipes for Salmon Before a Colonoscopy

Here are some tasty and colonoscopy-friendly recipe ideas featuring salmon:

1. Lemon Garlic Baked Salmon

Coat 4-6oz salmon fillets with minced garlic, lemon juice and zest, salt, pepper and a bit of olive oil. Bake at 400F for 10-15 minutes.

2. Salmon Avocado Salad

Top greens, sliced avocado, tomato and shredded carrot with 4oz roasted salmon and vinaigrette.

3. Teriyaki Salmon & Veggie Bowl

Marinate 4oz salmon in low-sodium teriyaki sauce. Bake and serve over rice with steamed broccoli and edamame.

4. Salmon Spinach Salad

Sauté 4oz salmon in lemon juice and top nutrient-packed spinach salad with olives, egg, tomato and light dressing.

5. Mediterranean Salmon

Bake salmon dressed with minced garlic, olive oil, tomatoes, kalamata olives, oregano and feta (optional).

The Bottom Line

Salmon can be included in your prep diet up until 2 days before your colonoscopy. Stick to 4-6 ounces of wild-caught, bone-free salmon fillets roasted, baked or grilled without butter or oil. Avoid tuna, salmon and other fatty fish the day before your procedure when you’ll be on a clear liquid diet. With the proper prep, you’ll be ready for the best colonoscopy results.