Clear diets are used for clearing the digestive track of food residue prior to medical procedures and for patients recovering after bouts of intestinal inflammation. Because clear diets do not contain much in the way of vitamins and minerals, they are not recommended for more than a few days unless prescribed by a physician who is monitoring the diet and prescribing supplements.
Beverages
On a clear foods diet, the rule of thumb is if you can see through the liquid, you can drink it. In addition to water, dieters are allowed colorful apple and cranberry juices, no-pulp or strained orange juice, and fruit punch. Ginger ale, lemon-lime drinks and other light colored carbonated beverages, including soda water, are allowed. Caffeinated beverages are no longer considered a terrible health risk, but the side effects of too much include anxiety, upset stomach and insomnia. Clear sport drinks with electrolytes are okay; avoid alcoholic drinks.
Soups
The entree category on a clear food diet is filled by soups. Clear and fat-free canned or packaged broths, consomme, and broths made from bouillon cubes are allowed.
Desserts
Popsicles and iced treats that do not contain fruit or fruit pulps are allowed on a clear diet, as are flavored gelatins without fruit. Suck on hard candies that fully dissolve before they enter the digestive tract.
Seasonings and Sweeteners
Keep clear liquids free from bland tastes by using seasonings. Use sugar or honey to sweeten tea and coffee, and sparingly add mild herb seasonings and salt to broths.
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