why no red or purple fluids day before surgery? (oops...)

Hey, everybody, I'm supposed to be reporting for surgery tomarrow morning bright and early at 7:30am and I forgot 'the rule' and drank about a glass of rasberry crystal light about 3 hours ago. I have since been DROWNING myself with water, but can anyone tell me what that red and purple fluids rule is about? I a little bit anxious now...

Gretchen The reason to avoid red & purple is that both of these colors may give the false illusion of bleeding as they pass from your system. One glass will not make a difference, however, I have seen patients drink like 1/2 to 1 gallon of these colors and that does cause some issues. Try to relax and enjoy your final evening before you hop on the wild ride of the losing side. Good luck tomorrow and I look forward to you joining the happiest group of losers in the world. Carolyn