A PET scan is a medical imaging procedure that uses a radioactive tracer to create images of the body's organs and tissues. The tracer is typically injected into the bloodstream, and it then travels throughout the body, accumulating in areas of high activity. The PET scan can then detect these areas of high activity, which can help doctors diagnose and monitor a variety of conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease.

What Should I Eat the Day Before a PET Scan?

Preparing for a PET Scan

In order to get the best results from a PET scan, it is important to follow the instructions provided by your doctor or technologist. This may include fasting for a certain period of time before the scan. Fasting helps to ensure that the tracer is not taken up by food or drink in the stomach, which can interfere with the scan results.

What to Eat the Day Before a PET Scan

The specific instructions for what to eat and drink the day before a PET scan will vary depending on the type of scan being performed and the tracer being used. However, there are some general guidelines that you can follow:

  • Avoid sugary foods and drinks. Sugary foods and drinks can cause the tracer to accumulate in the stomach, which can interfere with the scan results. Avoid sugary foods and drinks, such as candy, soda, juice, and sports drinks, for at least 24 hours before the scan.
  • Eat a healthy, balanced meal. The day before the scan, eat a healthy, balanced meal that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. This will help to ensure that you have enough energy for the scan and that your body is functioning properly.
  • Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is important for overall health, and it can also help to ensure that the tracer is distributed evenly throughout the body. Drink at least eight glasses of water the day before the scan.

What to Avoid the Day Before a PET Scan

In addition to following the general guidelines above, there are certain foods and drinks that you should avoid the day before a PET scan. These include:

  • Alcohol. Alcohol can interfere with the tracer's distribution in the body. Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before the scan.
  • Caffeine. Caffeine can also interfere with the tracer's distribution in the body. Avoid caffeine-containing beverages, such as coffee, tea, and soda, for at least 24 hours before the scan.
  • Nicotine. Nicotine can cause the blood vessels to constrict, which can make it difficult for the tracer to reach the target organs and tissues. Avoid smoking cigarettes or using other tobacco products for at least 24 hours before the scan.

Following Your Doctor's Instructions

It is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully when preparing for a PET scan. By following these instructions, you can help to ensure that the scan is performed correctly and that the results are accurate.