Liquid diets may be prescribed prior to and after surgery, following dental-work or during illnesses where food is not tolerated. Liquid diets, however, are increasingly used as a dieting method for quick weight-loss in a short time period. According to the website Every Diet, liquid diets are fasting methods in which food is restricted or limited in favor of drinking only liquids. Although weight loss typically results, it is usually in the form of water due to low calorie and nutrient intake requirements. Consult a physician prior to initiating a liquid diet that may lead to harmful health effects.
Variations
Liquid diet plans vary according to their intended purpose. Every Diet describes a liquid diet in which juices are primarily consumed along with water and possible meal-replacement drinks made from powders. Original liquid diets typically consisted of very low-calorie intakes used for obese patients to aid in weight loss and remove them from harmful food environments. Vanderbilt University's psychology department reports that liquid diets have changed since over the decades and many programs offer plans that are more calorie and nutrient-dense. Examples include Slim-Fast or Medi-Fast shakes that consist of carbs, proteins and fats for good nutrition and feelings of satiation.
Healthy Liquid Diet
Although the benefits and effectiveness of liquid diets varies among individuals, a liquid diet that works most effectively is nutrient-rich and has medical supervision. Liquid diets should be conducted during a short-term period ranging anywhere from one to seven days depending on health needs. Fasting on liquids greater than a few days even may cause adverse health risks including nausea, fainting and electrolyte imbalances. Selecting a short-term liquid diet to jump-start a weight-loss program as a transition into a healthier diet plan and lifestyle is the healthiest option. Furthermore, liquid diets consisting of only water fasting is not safe and provides no nutrients to the body risking nutritional deficiencies. Liquid meals should be consumed at regular intervals throughout the day to keep energy high and prevent fluctuating blood sugar levels.
Meal Replacements
A liquid diet that works should consist primarily of juices made from fresh fruits and vegetables, smoothies and meal-replacement shakes. Juices made from produce contain essential vitamins and minerals needed for normal body functions and hormonal balance. They are still lower in calories, however, and do not contain the fiber of whole fruits and vegetables. Hence, adding in smoothies and meal-replacement shakes that are prepared with water, low-fat milk or dairy alternative, fruits and protein powders provides additional calories and nutrients. Protein provided by powders is an essential nutrient needed in the body for the growth and repair of muscle tissue. In addition to increasing the metabolic rate, protein also helps to satiate the appetite preventing common hunger cravings.
Considerations
Liquid diets should never be undertaken without medical supervision. According to Vanderbilt University, the success rate of liquid diets varies among individuals. Patients on medically supervised plans may benefit from liquid diets and improve symptoms of diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure as well as decreasing obesity. Many negative consequences may develop as a result of poorly conducted liquid diets including slowed metabolism, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, digestive upsets, irregular heartbeats and loss of muscle mass.
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