A 48-hour clear liquid diet usually is prescribed for patients getting ready to undergo a medical procedure that requires a completely empty stomach and digestive tract, such as a colonoscopy or bariatric surgery. Dieters often resort to a clear liquid diet to cleanse their systems and see a quick boost to their weight-loss efforts. There is also a diet drink on the market called the Hollywood Miracle Diet that consists of drinking a vitamin-enriched citrus drink and water for two days.
Features
A clear liquid diet consists primarily of clear liquids and broth. Liquids such as coffee, tea, sodas and juices without pulp can be served warm or cold. Flavored ice and fruit-flavored Popsicles qualify as a frozen liquid and are allowed on the diet. Vegetable, beef or chicken broth provides some nutrients to those on the diet and breaks up the monotony of the drinks. Jell-O often is included on the diet. Those trying to lose weight should stick to sugar-free drinks and snacks.
Function
A clear liquid diet should maintain electrolyte balances with the proper mix of fluids. Hydration and sufficient amounts of sodium and potassium are vital for energy needed to get through a day, report doctors at the Mayo Clinic. Yellow or clear sports drinks make an ideal adjunct to a 48-hour clear liquid diet, because they usually contain the correct balance of electrolytes.
Effects
A 48-hour clear liquid diet should not be maintained for any longer than the two days recommended. The diet does not provide enough nutrients for any longer period of time. Prolonged use can lead to serious nutritional deficiencies. Dieters can get a big boost to their weight-loss efforts for the two days of the diet as well as a thorough digestive cleansing.
Uses
In addition to a quick boost in a weight loss program and prior to a surgical procedure, the 48-hour clear liquid diet can be used to treat diarrhea, vomiting and nausea, report doctors at the University of Arizona Campus Health Services. When treating stomach disorders, liquids should be taken at regular intervals. Doctors recommend avoiding any milk products and caffeine. They advise patients to stick to chamomile or other herbal tea, plain gelatin and ginger ale or white soda.
Warning
Doctors at Vanderbilt University warn dieters about following the advise of diet product marketers. Marketers of products that promise miracle cures for obesity are trying to make sales and are not always providing scientific results. Liquid diets can cause a loss of lean muscle instead of fat and reduce metabolism. Other side effects of a liquid diet can include muscle cramps, dizziness, anemia and cardiac abnormalities.
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