How to Prep for a Colonoscopy

You ever notice how turning 45 comes with a new set of "milestones"? You're not just blowing out candles and pretending to like gluten-free cake. No, you're now eligible for the real party trick—your first colonoscopy. Congratulations. You’ve made it to the age where a camera crew gets up close and personal with your large intestine. Wait, they put a camera WHERE? 

Now, before you cancel your birthday plans and go full “WebMD panic spiral,” let me clear something up. I’m not a doctor—I’m a longevity coach. I help men and women over 40 lose fat, get strong, and slow the aging process. So while I won't be performing the colonoscopy (and thank goodness for that), I will give it to you straight, with some humor, a little tough love, and most importantly—actionable advice. Because when it comes to staying alive and thriving, preventative screenings are non-negotiable. Let’s dig in.

Part 1: The Dirty Truth About Colon Cancer

Here’s the uncomfortable reality: Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. That’s not some random stat—it's real. And the kicker? It's also one of the most preventable cancers. How? Routine screenings like—you guessed it—a colonoscopy.

If you're over 45 and avoiding this test, it's like knowing your roof has a hole in it and waiting until it rains to fix it. Just because it's out of sight doesn't mean it should be out of mind. Let’s face it, you change the oil in your car, rotate your tires, and maybe even floss once in a while. So why skip out on basic maintenance for the one body you’ve got?

Part 2: “Prep Day”—The Real Gut Check

Okay, here comes the part that everyone dreads: the preparation. Now listen, I’ve done my fair share of cleanses. I once tried a juice fast that made me so hangry I barked at my neighbor’s dog. But nothing—and I mean nothing—compares to colonoscopy prep day. You’re on a liquid diet. No solids. No chewing. Just clear broth, lemon Jell-O (because red is a no-no), and enough Gatorade to hydrate a football team.

Then, you chug a laxative solution that tastes like the tears of a thousand suffering patients. You think you’re just gonna have a few bathroom visits? No. You're practically living in there. Might as well set up a cot and call it "office hours." And here’s the weirdest part: somewhere deep down, you’re weirdly proud when the toilet water is crystal clear. That’s how you know you’ve done your job. Your colon will be cleaner than your garage.

Part 3: The Procedure Itself—Not So Bad

Now, after a night of gastrointestinal gymnastics, you show up at the doctor’s office, and guess what? You’re in and out in about 30 minutes. The procedure is done under sedation, and most folks don’t remember a thing. I had a client tell me, “I woke up feeling like I took the best nap of my life.” So the prep is the hard part. The actual test? Not so scary. And here's the beautiful part: your doc can remove polyps—small, potentially pre-cancerous growths—right there on the spot. Boom. Handled. Prevented. Done. That’s not just smart; that’s next-level proactive.

Part 4: It’s Not Just About You

Now look, I get it. Nobody wants to talk about their colon. You’re not exactly bringing that up at Sunday dinner. But I want you to hear this loud and clear: This is not just about you. If you’ve got a partner, kids, coworkers who rely on you—heck, even your dog—this is your responsibility. When you take care of yourself, you're sending a message: I’m planning to be here for the long haul. You wouldn’t ghost your family without saying goodbye, right? So don’t ghost your health either. Get the screening.

Part 5: Tips to Make It Less Tricky

The prep is rough. But so is cancer. Here’s how to make colonoscopy prep slightly less ungraceful. Maybe even... manageable?

Hydrate like it’s your job. Start hydrating the week before. No, not with sparkling wine coolers. With water. It’ll make the laxative go down easier and reduce side effects like headaches.

Stock the right supplies. You’ll need:

• Clear liquids (Gatorade, broth, apple juice)
• Soft toilet paper (trust me on this)
• Baby wipes (cooling, soothing—thank me later)
• A comfy bathroom setup (magazine, audiobook, emotional support stuffed animal)

Take time off. Don’t try to “push through” at work during prep day. You won’t make it. Trust me, there’s no way you’re crushing spreadsheets mid-exodus.

Plan your meals the week before. A low-fiber diet in the days leading up to prep means a clean color and clear conscience. Think white rice, eggs, lean chicken, bananas. It’s not glamorous, but it’s effective.

Have a ride lined up. You’ll be groggy after the procedure, so bring a friend or family member to drive you. Bonus if they bring you a “you survived” milkshake—vanilla only, of course.

Part 6: Still on the Fence?

Let me ask you this. If someone told you they could give you peace of mind for the next 10 years… wouldn’t you take it? That’s what a normal colonoscopy result gets you—ten years until your next one. Unless they find something sketchy, in which case you’ve caught it early, and that’s a win too. So don’t wait until you’re doubled over in pain or Googling “Why does my stool look like a corkscrew?” Do the right thing now.

Part 7: Talk to Your Doctor Like a Boss

If you're still unsure, have a grown-up convo with your doctor. Here's how to keep it simple: “I just turned 45. I know the guidelines say it’s time for a colonoscopy. What’s your recommendation?” Boom. Adulting level: expert. And hey, if you’re nervous, tell them that. They do this all day, every day. You think you’re the first one to crack a loose-bowel-movement joke in the exam room? You’re not even in the Top 10.

Part 8: What If You’re Not 45 Yet?

Then good! You’ve got time to plan. Put a reminder in your calendar. Talk to your doc about any family history of colon cancer, because if it runs in your family, you may need to get screened even earlier. And in the meantime?

• Eat a high-fiber diet (veggies, whole grains, beans)
• Move your body daily
• Ditch smoking
• Limit alcohol
• And stay lean

Basically, do all the stuff I coach you to do anyway.

Part 9: Don’t Be Embarrassed—Be Empowered

In my experience coaching thousands of men and women over 40, I’ve learned one simple truth: Longevity is earned. You want to age well? You want to run around with your grandkids? You want to be the 80-year-old bench pressing 135 pounds? Then you’ve got to invest in your health, even when it’s uncomfortable, awkward, or requires a little humility. Getting a colonoscopy isn’t fun. But you know what is? Staying alive.

This Test Could Save Your Butt

You’re not weak for being nervous about a colonoscopy. You’re smart if you schedule one anyway. You’re a warrior if you chug the prep, handle your business in the bathroom, and walk into that doctor’s office like a boss with a clean colon and a strong heart. Let’s normalize this stuff. Let’s make it okay to talk about it. Heck, let’s make it funny if that helps. And then let’s move on and live our best, strongest, longest lives—because that’s what we’re here for.

Summary:

Turning 45? It might be time for your first colonoscopy. While the prep is no walk in the park—think Gatorade, laxatives, and a bathroom-bound marathon—the procedure itself is quick and painless. More importantly, it's one of the most effective ways to prevent colon cancer, the second leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. Don't delay because it’s awkward. Take control of your health. Do it for your future self, and the people who count on you. Because real strength isn’t just lifting weights—it’s stepping up and facing the uncomfortable stuff too.

To your success,

Coach Joe

Joseph Arangio helps 40+ men and women lose weight, gain strength, and slow aging. He's delivered over 100,000 transformation programs to satisfied clients around the globe. If you want to increase longevity with the best online age-management program, or you want to visit the best age-management program in the Lehigh Valley, you can take a free 14-day trial.