A clear liquid diet is usually prescribed by a doctor. A clear liquid diet is not usually followed for more than a few days as it does not provide much nutrition or calories. Clear liquids are easy to digest and leave your digestive tract clear for medical testing and procedures.
Significance
A clear liquid diet may be indicated prior to or following surgery. People suffering from severe digestive discomfort or chronic digestive diseases like inflammatory bowel disease may also be prescribed a clear liquid diet for a few days to help alleviate symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. It is a temporary dietary intervention designed to hold you over until you can return to eating solid foods.
Allowed Items
Clear liquids are those you can see through. Although tinted with a color, apple juice, chicken or vegetable broth and weak tea---these all qualify as clear liquids. Purple and red juices and products are usually not allowed on a clear liquid diet, especially before procedures like a colonoscopy, says MayoClinic.com. Clear sodas like lemon-lime and ginger ale and light-colored sports drinks are also permitted.
Considerations
All foods that are a clear liquid at room temperature are acceptable, says Drugs.com. This means gelatin and ice pops, even though they are solid, are actually allowed. If you have been prescribed the diet for a few days, you might appreciate the chance to "chew" something for a change of pace. A clear nutritional supplement may be offered if you do have to stay on the diet for longer than two or three days.
Caution
Even if you have little appetite or grow tired of the liquid diet, be sure to take in all liquids recommended by your doctor. Often, a clear liquid diet is prescribed to ensure adequate hydration and electrolyte levels are maintained.
Complications
If you fail to follow a clear liquid diet when it is prescribed, you risk the chance that your test will be inaccurate or that it will be canceled altogether. Eating solid foods in lieu of the liquids when your body is not ready to digest them can lead to significant complications like diarrhea, bloating, gas and vomiting.
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