Prior to medical procedures, particularly the kind that involve the digestive system, your doctor may prescribe a clear liquid diet. The purpose of this diet is to clean the digestive system of any solids, allow it to rest and decrease complications during or after a procedure. A clear liquid diet, according to the Mayo Clinic, is generally only used for a short period of time, since it doesn't provide adequate nutrition. If you are prescribed a clear liquid diet for surgery, be sure to follow your doctor's instructions thoroughly.
Fruit Juices
Fruit juices can provide calories for energy while you're on a clear liquid diet. According to Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology, fruit juices that don't contain any solids, like pulp or sediment are acceptable for a clear liquid diet. These include, but are not limited to, apple, grape and cranberry juices which are also rich sources of nutrients like vitamin C. This can help facilitate healing after a medical procedure. Avoid juices that are thick, like nectar or cider, because they contain small solid particles that can cause problems or impair the results of medical tests.
Other Beverages
Aside from some fruit juices, other beverages can be safely consumed while following a clear liquid diet. Water is perhaps the most obvious clear beverage, but you can usually also drink coffee and tea, although your doctor may recommend that you choose the decaffeinated versions. Additionally, acceptable beverages on a clear liquid diet usually include soft drinks, but these too can cause bloating and discomfort if ingested without solid food. Ask your doctor before consuming any beverage that has not specifically been recommended prior to your surgery.
Desserts
Another way to get calories for energy while on a clear liquid diet is to eat desserts that contain no naturally occurring particles like seeds. According to the Mayo Clinic, foods like clear honey, flavored gelatin, hard candy and flavored ice pops can be consumed on a clear liquid diet. Keep in mind, however, that desserts that are colored red may not be allowed if you are having certain medical procedures performed. The red dye used to color these foods can make it difficult to identify sources of internal bleeding when undergoing tests such as colonoscopy.
Soups
When your diet is limited to clear liquids in preparation for surgery, clear soups and broths can help settle an empty stomach. Bouillon, soups and broths should not contain fat, which can elicit the digestive process and add unwanted residue. If you're unsure if a soup or broth contains fat, it's better to avoid it or ask your doctor. Most soups and broths with fat will have small globules that accumulate at the surface but this isn't always an accurate indication. If you're on a sodium-restricted eating plan, be sure to choose the sodium-free or low-sodium versions of these foods.
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