Liquid diets consist mainly of fluids, according to the Diet Channel. A clear liquid diet is composed of only transparent liquids such as broth and gelatin. The goal of this diet is to maintain body fluids and minerals. It may be prescribed by a physician for use before or after medical procedures as it leaves no undigested matter in the gastrointestinal tract. A full liquid diet is the next step toward solid foods. It includes a broader range of choices such as milk, strained cream soups and puddings. Consult with a medical practitioner before integrating a liquid food diet.
Clear
A clear liquid diet is composed of liquids without any pulp such as tea, some juices, broth, popsicles, gelatin and fruit ice. Sports drinks add flavor, variety, calories, carbohydrate and electrolytes. They are designed to deliver optimum hydration without causing gastrointestinal upset. Vary the flavors and types of broths and teas you choose while on a clear liquid diet. Try chicken, turkey, vegetable or beef broth. Although you cannot add milk to your tea you are not restricted in terms of tea variety. Experiment with flavored teas as well as jasmine, chamomile and vanilla-flavored black tea. Honey is allowed to sweeten your tea.
Full
All food and beverage items recommended on a clear liquid diet are appropriate for a full liquid diet, with dozens of additions. A full liquid diet includes far more than just milk and strained cream soups. Enjoy items such as puddings, custards, sherbet, frozen yogurt and regular yogurt---without fruit pieces---ice cream and refined hot cereals such as pureed oatmeal, cream of rice, grits or cream of wheat. Try different types of fruit and vegetable juices as well as fruit nectars and fruits and vegetables that have been pureed to baby food consistency. Mashed white potatoes that have been diluted in cream or cream soups are another food option. Pureed meats add protein to this diet as well as cooked eggs, which are often permitted.
Supplements
There are high protein commercial supplements which may boost the nutritive value of liquid diets. Protein and calorie-rich gelatins, fruit juices and broths are available to supplement a clear liquid diet. For a full liquid diet, commercial high-protein and high-calorie shakes may be used. Examples include Ensure, manufactured by Abbott as well as Nestle Nutritionals Boost Plus and Carnation Instant Breakfast drink mix.
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