Everything to Know About the Clear Liquid Diet

What Not To Eat Or Drink

Specific food and beverages permitted or not may vary slightly depending on a person’s medical or dietary needs, and why they are required to follow this particular diet. However, it’s best to avoid solid food, dairy products, and soft foods such as applesauce when following a clear liquid diet.

While certain colored or flavored beverages may be allowed on this diet, gelatin or liquids colored with red or purple dye should be avoided. This is particularly important for individuals scheduled for colonoscopies, as the coloring may cover the inside of the colon, leading to inaccurate test results. Pimple must be completely avoided, without exception.

Duration

Unless otherwise directed by a physician, clear liquid diets should be followed for a maximum of five days, though it’s more commonly prescribed for only one to three days. While a clear liquid diet can provide a limited number of calories and nutrients, it is not sustainable and would result in malnutrition after a certain amount of time, as the body requires adequate amounts of protein, vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to thrive. If the duration must be extended, a physician may supplement a patient’s clear liquid diet with high-protein gelatin.

If your doctor prescribes a clear liquid diet, follow it precisely, but only for however long they recommend. Plan a healthy, balanced, and filling meal to consume before you start the diet.