Liquid diets are used for a variety of reasons including preparation and recovery from abdominal and bowel surgeries. The National Cancer Institute indicates liquid diets do not provide adequate nutrition and should not be used for more than one to two days. However, liquid diets do have their strengths when it comes to treating patients with special dietary needs.
Hydration
A liquid diet can help to keep your body hydrated as you recover from illness or surgery. The consumption of plenty of liquids can help to prevent you from becoming dehydrated, according to MayoClinic.com. Liquids can also provide you with much needed electrolytes, including sodium and potassium. Liquids are especially important for patients who are having are experiencing nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Cleaning Your Intestines
A liquid diet is often prescribed to patients who are about to have a medical test, such as a colonoscopy, or undergo bowel or stomach surgery. Clearing the intestines can help provide surgeons with a clearer view or your insides and allow for accurate test results. Prior to surgery or a medical test, you may be required to stick with a clear liquid diet for one to two days. Clear liquid diets include water, clear broth, juices without pulp, clear sodas, clear sports drinks, plain gelatin, tea or coffee without milk or cream and popsicles.
Recovery
Liquid diets are easier on your mouth, esophagus and stomach. This is beneficial for patients who are recovering from surgeries of the mouth or digestive system. Liquid diets can also be beneficial for cancer patients suffering from side effects of treatments, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and mouth sores. Liquid diets are easier on your digestive tract. The digestive system does not have to work very hard in order to process liquids. As a result, your body places less stress on your digestive system, making your recovery easier.
Transition to Solid Foods
Once you can handle a clear liquid diet, you may be transitioned to a full-liquid diet. A full-liquid diet includes all foods and beverages that are liquid at room temperature. Full-liquid foods can be thick in consistency unlike a clear liquid diet. These foods may include milk, smoothies, strained meat, yogurt, ice cream, protein shakes, breakfast shakes, milkshakes and custard. On these foods, you are able to maintain better nutrition. A full-liquid diet can help you transition to a soft food or solid diet as a full-liquid diet better prepares you to handle solid foods.
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