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Full-Fluid Diets

Fluid diets are used for a variety of reasons. A full-fluid diet cuts calories without sacrificing nutrition and provides a gentle way to transition from a fast to solid food. People with dental problems might use the diet to eliminate the pain of chewing. Fluid diets are required before and after surgery so the digestive system is free of materials that interfere with the operation. Bariatric surgery patients are limited to a liquid diet following the procedure. Liquids are gentle on the digestive system, but contain a healthy level of vitamins and nutrients.

  1. What's Included?

    • A full-fluid diet includes no solid food. Consuming food in fluid form enables you to eat without chewing. The diet includes solid foods blended into liquid, as well as broth, milk and water. A full-fluid diet is a long-term option because it includes the vitamins and minerals necessary for staying healthy. When a fluid diet is not intended to help with weight loss, you can include pudding, milkshakes, custard, baby food, maple syrup and butter.

    Juicing

    • Fruits and vegetables are a vital part of a full-fluid diet. Juicing or blending vegetables and fruits into a smoothie is a healthy liquid meal option. Healthy smoothies satisfy hunger and ease cravings because your body is provided with the nutrients it needs. You can make smoothies that are low-calorie with just fruits and veggies or add yogurt, milk or ice cream to increase the calorie content. This creates a creamy texture and provides calories when you are limited to only liquid foods for reasons other than weight loss.

    Other Foods

    • Full-fluid diets include foods that are partially solid like oatmeal, grits and cream of wheat. Creamy soups like mushroom or chicken might also be allowed. Foods such as honey or fruit ice satisfy cravings for sugar or sweet flavors. Full-fluid diets that are intended to transition from liquid to solid food give you more options than when the diet is for weight loss purposes.

    Extreme Version

    • A clear fluid diet is a severe version of the liquid diet. It is used during times the body is unable to digest heavy liquids or during a cleansing or spiritual fast. Clear fluid diets are also used prior to or following bowel or stomach surgery. The diet is not healthy for longer than a few days because it lacks proper nutrition. A clear fluid diet is necessary to prevent dehydration when eating and drinking are restricted. Clear fluid diets include water, grape or apple juice, and clear broths and soft drinks.

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