Certain surgeries, such as gastric bypass or anti-reflux surgery, are particularly hard on the digestive system. Following a liquid diet after the surgery allows the system time to heal without the stress of digesting coarse foods. Liquid diets are also easier on the stomach for those experiencing nausea or other effects after anesthesia. Doctors usually prescribe liquid diets for a short time after surgery before transitioning the patient to a fuller diet.
Variations
Liquid diets come in two major variations -- clear liquids and full liquids, according to Carol Taylor in "Fundamentals of Nursing." The surgeon will decide which type to start with, depending on the surgery and the patient's individual needs. Patients may start out on a clear liquid diet and progress to pureed foods after surgery. Clear liquid diets consist of foods and beverages that are clear liquid at room temperature. Full liquid diets allow foods that can be poured into a cup at room temperature.
Types of Liquids Allowed
Liquid diets offer more variety than the name implies. For example, in addition to plain water and bullion broth, patients prescribed a clear liquid diet can also drink coffee and tea without cream, suck on popsicles without fruit chunks and sip on clear sodas such as ginger ale, according to MayoClinic.com. Full liquid diets introduce more variety including smooth ice cream, milkshakes, potato soup and coffee with creamer. Your physician will determine which foods and beverages you may have, based on your nutrition needs and limitations.
Contraindications and Risks
Full liquid diets rely heavily on milk products to provide adequate nutrition and are contraindicated in patients with severe lactose intolerance unless modified to exclude dairy products while still providing enough protein and calories, according to Susan G. Dudek in "Nutrition Essentials for Nursing Practice." Clear liquid diets do not provide adequate nutrition and require a short duration before transitioning to a fuller diet.
Transitioning Off a Liquid Diet
Graduating from a liquid diet to a full diet requires a transition period. Your digestive system is used to taking it easy and immediately jumping in to a four-course meal can be a shock to your stomach. Once your physician has approved a fuller diet, start out by introducing bland foods and slowly building up to your regular diet. Tell your doctor about any difficulties you have. Some surgeries, especially those involving stomach staples, stress the importance of avoiding vomiting because of the risk of tearing the sutures.
Considerations
After surgery, you may feel thirsty, especially if you were required to fast in preparation. Gulping down the first glass of water offered, however, can increase your risk of nausea and vomiting. MedlinePlus recommends starting with a small cup of liquid, sipping slowly and avoiding cold or carbonated beverages. Avoid using straws, as they can cause uncomfortable gas.
References
- "Fundamentals of Nursing"; Carol Taylor; 2008
- MayoClinic.com: Clear Liquid Diet
- MedlinePlus: Full Liquid Diet
- "Nutrition Essential for Nursing Practice"; Susan G. Dudek; 2007
- MedlinePlus: Acid Reflux Surgery -- Discharge
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