What Are You Supposed to Drink on a Liquid Diet?

What Are You Supposed to Drink on a Liquid Diet?
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A liquid diet is composed of fluids and foods that normally transform into liquids at room temperature, notes MedlinePlus. This includes foods such as ice cream and popsicles. It may also include other foods such as jello, creamy soups and pudding. There are a variety of liquids to consume on the liquid diet. Liquid diets are commonly used to aid weight loss or as a temporary post-surgery diet regimen. When followed at your doctor's discretion, liquid diets can be beneficial.

Fruit Juices

According to MedlinePlus, fruit juices, including those with pulp and nectars, are allowed on the liquid diet. Fruits juices are beneficial to drink since they contain essential vitamins, antioxidants and minerals your body needs to function properly. Ideal fruits for juicing or blending include apples, oranges, melons, papayas, tangerines, grapefruit, strawberries, blueberries and bananas.

Pureed Vegetables and Broths

In addition to juicing, you can also puree or blend your vegetables for drinking while on the liquid diet, reports nutritionist Elizabeth Lipski, author of "Digestive Wellness." Like fruit juices, vegetable broths and juices provide your body with low calories, good enzymes, chlorophyll and other nutrients. Ideal vegetables to use on the liquid diet include juiced carrots, celery, mustard greens, collard greens, turnips, kale, cabbage and other leafy greens. You can also drink soup broths such as consommé, bouillon or strained cream soups in liquid forms.

Tea, Sodas and Other Liquid Supplements

Teas, sodas and coffee are permitted on a liquid diet. You may also add honey, sugar, cream or milk to your drinks. Liquid supplements such as whey protein can be consumed in milk, smoothies or yogurt. Ice cream, gelatin and pudding are other ideal foods to consume on the liquid diet. Avoid sources that contain hard fruits and other solid foods that have not been blended or reduced to liquid form. For example, you should not eat ice cream with nuts or whole fruit.

Considerations

For best results, you should only attempt a liquid diet under a physician's supervision. Although the liquid diet is used for pre- or post-surgical procedures, using it long-term can be potentially dangerous to your health. Unlike fad diets, such as incomplete liquid diets, a diet consisting of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and regular exercise can enhance your health and stabilize your weight, reports the American Heart Association.

References

Article reviewed by Mary Bland Last updated on: Jun 28, 2011

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