A clear liquid diet includes transparent beverages at room temperature and often is recommended by medical professionals post-surgery or after anesthesia has been administered. The diet is often only followed for several hours to a few days, depending on why the anesthesia was given, allowing your body to adjust back to its normal state. Understanding the importance of a clear liquid diet and what you can and cannot consume is critical to avoid complications.
Types of Anesthesia
There are three types of anesthesia commonly administered. Local anesthesia is specific to one part of the body. Medication is often injected into the tissue to create numbness. Often, recovery is quick and the procedure is performed on an outpatient status. A clear liquid diet is often not necessary. Regional anesthesia involves numbing a portion of the body. A patient may be awake or slightly sedated during this time. According to the American Society of Anesthesiologists, two examples of regional anesthesia include childbirth and prostate surgery. General anesthesia involves the entire body, and patients are entirely unconscious. Clear liquid diets are commonly recommended for local and general anesthesia.
Anesthesia Side Effects
Side effects of anesthesia include nausea, vomiting, fatigue and dry mouth. According to the American Society of Anesthesiologists, 20 to 30 percent of patients recovering from general anesthesia suffer from a sore throat for several days afterward. Side effects may occur several hours after surgery. The American Association of Nurse Anesthetists states anesthesia medications may stay in your body for up to 24 hours post-surgery.
Reason for Diet
Most patients recovering from local and general anesthesia continue to have small amounts of anesthesia in their system. You may also not have the ability to chew or swallow your food correctly. Digesting food is also a great amount of work for your body to preform immediately after anesthesia. Slowly introducing fluids gives your body time to adjust. You are at a high risk of choking or aspirating on food, even small portions. By only consuming clear liquids, you decrease this risk.
Clear Liquid Diet Specifics
The clear liquid diet contains water, clear juice, broth and gelatin. When drinking juice, strain to remove all excess pulp. Tea is allowed, but not mixed with milk. If you are suffering from a sore throat, drink hot water with a tablespoon of dissolved honey. Ice chips and flavored juice pops may also ease your throat if you are uncomfortable. Do not drink alcohol for 24 hours after receiving anesthesia. Though beer and wine are clear liquids, they are also considered a drug and will interfere with your recovery process. Once your doctor has directed you to switch to light foods, enjoy toast, yogurt or plain rice -- all foods your body can easily digest.
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