A clear liquid diet is just that, a diet consisting of foods and beverages made from liquids that you can see through. This type of diet is easily digested and leaves no residue in the gastrointestinal tract.

A clear liquid diet may be necessary when the gastrointestinal tract needs to be free of food or needs to rest, for instance:

  • Before undergoing a test or procedure that involves the stomach or intestines
  • After surgery, to start the transition back to regular food
  • During flare-ups of certain digestive problems, such as diverticulitis

Although this diet allows for adequate hydration, it doesn’t provide enough calories and nutrients. Therefore, this diet should not be followed for more than three days and should only be followed with close supervision from a physician.

Foods Allowed

  • Water
  • Tea or coffee (without cream)
  • Juices without pulp:
    • Apple
    • Grape
    • Cranberry
    • Prune
    • Lemonade
  • Clear liquid supplements (eg, Boost® Fruit Flavored Beverage or Enlive)
  • Soda
  • Clear broth or bouillon
  • Gelatin (without bits of fruit)
  • Popsicles (without fruit or cream)
  • Italian ice

The following condiments are also allowed: sugar, salt, and pepper.

Foods to Avoid

  • Any foods not on the above list, including:
    • Milk
    • Cream
    • Orange juice
    • Grapefruit juice
    • Tomato juice
    • Smoothies
    • Milkshakes
    • Soup
    • Oatmeal
    • Cream of Wheat