What is a clear liquid diet?: A clear liquid diet is a diet that consists of food and drinks that are clear, meaning you can see through them. In this type of diet, you aren't limited to colorless food and drink; you are limited to food and drink that are clear. Example: apple juice has color , yet is still clear.
Why would a doctor recommend this diet?: The clear liquid diet is not intended for long term use. It is used to preapre for certain medical tests, more commonly bloodwork. It is very helpful when a patient is expereince nausea and has trouble keeping things down. Also used before and after surgery.
What is included in the clear liquid diet?: You can consume clear juices, ices, hard candy, and gelatin. See examples below.
Examples of clear juices and beverages. : Apple juice, grape juice, cranberry juice are okay but without the pulp. Fruit punch is okay but you may want to dilute it with water. Strained lemonade and limeade,
Beverages: Coffee, tea (hot or cold), Kool-Aid, clear sodas, and water are all acceptable.
Soups: Bouillon, broths, fat free consommé, and strained vegetable broth are all good choices for the clear liquid diet.
Sweets: Fruit ices without milk, fruit ices without fruit pieces, plain gelatin dessert, popsicles, are okay.
Other Foods and Drinks: jelly (without seeds), honey are also acceptable.
