Clear Liquid Diet

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

If you've just had surgery or are preparing for a test or an operation, your doctor may ask you to restrict your diet to liquids and foods that are liquid at room temperature. This type of diet is a temporary measure, since it can't provide all the vitamins and minerals you need. However, it will give you enough water, salts, and calories to get by until you can eat normal food.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

Drink 5 to 8 large glasses of liquid a day. Choose liquids you can see through, such as apple juice. Do not follow this diet for more than 3 or 4 days without checking with your doctor. Suggested items include the following (1 cup equals 8 ounces):

BEVERAGES

• Coffee or tea (without cream or milk)
• 2 to 3 cups a day of clear juices (such as apple, cranberry, and grape) or strained juices (such as orange, grapefruit, lemonade, and fruit punch)
• Liquid gelatin (3 ounce package) mixed in 4 cups of water
• Mineral or bubbly water (such as sparkling water)
• 1 to 2 cups a day of soft drinks (such as ginger ale, lemon-lime soda, or club soda). Do not drink cola or root beer.
• Sports drinks
• Water (drink as much as you want)

SOUP

• 2 to 3 cups a day of clear broth or bouillon

DESSERTS

• 1 to 2 fruit ices or Popsicles® a day
• 2 to 3 pieces of hard candy a day
• 2 to 3 tablespoons of honey or sugar a day, added to hot drinks if you choose.
• 1/2 cup flavored gelatin 2 to 3 times a day (without fruit)