A liquid fasting diet may be prescribed by your physician or another member of your health care team, and can serve a variety of purposes. Depending on the specific foods included, a liquid diet keeps your body hydrated and supplied with the nutrients it needs to function.
Purpose
A liquid diet may be instituted for a number of reasons. Certain tests such as a colonoscopy may require an empty digestive tract, and this is achieved by following a clear liquid diet. Other health conditions may make it necessary to maintain a liquid fasting diet. Examples include difficulty swallowing or chewing and surgery on the digestive tract. Individuals may also follow a liquid fasting diet as a means of losing weight, and it's important to consult a health care professional before implementing this method of weight loss.
Types
Clear liquid diets include only those liquids which are strained and clear and which will leave no residue in the stomach and intestines. This type of liquid diet does not provide your body with adequate nutrition for long-term use, and should be followed for no more than a few days, according to the Mayo Clinic.
A full liquid diet broadens the clear liquid diet and includes foods that may be solid but return to liquid at room temperature, such as ice cream. The National Library of Medicine states that a full liquid diet can provide you with the nutrients you need to function for a long period of time.
Liquids Allowed
Liquids that are allowed include fruit juices, sodas, broth, popsicles, honey, frozen yogurt, sherbet, gelatin, coffee and tea. Additionally, prepared liquid supplements designed to support a liquid diet may be included. Depending on the type of liquid diet you are following, other refined foods such as hot wheat cereals or some types of baby foods may be allowed.
Meal Plans
Variety is important when on a liquid diet, and the National Library of Medicine suggests selecting five to seven items from the list of allowed liquids for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Experiment with your favorite fruit juices and different broth flavors, and plan your meals ahead of time. Keep your kitchen stocked with the liquids you are allowed, and have options ready for when you feel the need to snack.
Considerations
It's important to implement a liquid diet only with the advice and supervision of a health care provider such as your physician or a registered dietitian. Avoid using liquid diets as tools for quick weight loss, and instead focus on healthy methods of changing your diet and lifestyle. When you are on a liquid diet, comply with the guidelines provided to you and maintain communication with your health care provider.
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