Good day, Mr. Jelínek.

I am not quite sure where to place my question, but here seems most appropriate. I would like to inquire, when someone undergoes a colonoscopy, which is an examination of the large intestine, and before that a procedure to cleanse the intestines using designated preparations, does this process remove a larger portion of the gut microbiome in a manner similar to antibiotic treatment, or is this process less "drastic"? Additionally, a related question: If this intestinal cleansing results in the loss of the gut microbiome, how can one use diet to gently restore the diversity of this environment (is it necessary to use dietary supplements - probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics)? What foods would you recommend consuming after this examination? Thank you for your response and advice.

Colonoscopy or enemas always impact the function of the intestinal microbiota. However, their impact is not as severe as with the use of antibiotics, except in cases of long-term (repeated) bowel flushes. The restoration of diversity in the intestines occurs significantly faster than after antibiotic courses, so the use of supportive supplements is not necessarily required, although choosing them is not counterproductive either. In terms of dietary adjustments, the most important are:
1. A variety in food choices with an emphasis on plant-based foods,
2. Quality of the ingredients used (= avoiding industrially processed products),
3. Adequate fiber intake,
4. Preference for fermented foods.

Themes:  Weight loss   Gut microbiome   Colonoscopy