Medically reviewed by Miho Hatanaka, RDN, L.D. — Written by Zawn Villines — Updated on January 28, 2021
A full liquid diet means that a person eats no solid foods and only consumes liquids, such as soups, juices, and smoothies. For most people, it is a temporary measure and not a long-term nutritional strategy. Full liquids are different than clear liquids. On a clear liquid diet, a person can only have clear liquids, such as water, tea, and broth. Full liquids offer more diverse flavor and greater nutritional value. A person may be able to eat pureed versions of their favorite foods in addition to a wide variety of thicker liquids, such as tomato soup. In this article, learn more about full liquid diets, including their uses, the possible effects, and what to eat. The foods that a person should eat on a full liquid diet depend on their nutritional needs and a doctor’s recommendations. A person may be able to consume the following:
It can be challenging to get enough protein and fiber on a full liquid diet, so people following this diet — especially if they are doing so for longer than a few days — should prioritize nutrient-dense foods. Some examples of foods that a person may be able to eat and that offer more nutritional value include:
People should ask their doctor to provide a detailed list of exactly which foods they should eat and which they should avoid when on a full liquid diet. Doctors usually recommend full liquid diets as a short-term strategy when a person has a medical issue that makes eating solids dangerous. They might recommend that people follow a full liquid diet in the following situations:
Some people may also use liquid diets to try to lose weight, as a full liquid diet makes it more difficult to consume a large number of calories. Highly restrictive diets for weight loss are not safe, and doctors do not recommend them. A person will often regain the weight as soon as they return to a normal diet. A person on a full liquid diet needs to avoid solid foods, as well as pureed foods that may have chunks in them. Some examples of foods to avoid include:
For most people, a full liquid diet is a short-term measure. People who must stick to a full liquid diet for longer must be mindful of the foods that they eat and avoid potentially unhealthful options. People may find the following practices helpful:
It is very difficult to get enough nutrients on a full liquid diet, especially long term. Liquid diets are typically low in vitamin A, iron, vitamin B-12, and thiamine. People who must eat a full liquid diet for extended periods may need to take supplements to prevent nutritional deficits. It is possible to get enough protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients on a full liquid diet. However, doing so requires some planning and basic dietary knowledge. People on this diet who are recovering from surgery may not have the energy or motivation to seek out healthful foods. One of the biggest risks is that a person may rely on easy but less nutritious foods, such as melted ice cream or high sodium broths. While a full liquid diet may satisfy a person’s cravings better than a clear liquid diet, following a full liquid diet can still be difficult and frustrating. In addition to malnutrition from long-term use, some other risks include:
Although doctors may recommend a full liquid diet for a variety of conditions, some research suggests that this diet may be more restrictive than necessary. A 2010 study, for example, found that a full solid diet was safe for people recovering from mild acute pancreatitis and shortened hospital stays. A 2012 analysis concluded that a soft diet was also safe for people recovering from mild acute pancreatitis. A person whose doctor recommends a full liquid diet should ask them questions such as:
Following a full liquid diet can be challenging. If it is necessary to commit to full liquids for a long time, a person should consult with a dietitian to ensure that they get enough vital nutrients. In many cases, it may be possible to eat a satisfying and nutritious diet by pureeing the foods that a person usually enjoys. Last medically reviewed on January 14, 2020
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Ask your doctor or dietitian if you can include these foods in your full liquid diet:
Do not eat any kind of cheese, fruit (fresh, frozen, or canned), meat, and cereals that are not on your "OK" list. Also, do not eat raw or cooked vegetables. And, do not eat ice cream or other frozen desserts that have any solids in them or on top, such as nuts, chocolate chips, and cookie pieces. Try having a mix of 5 to 7 of the foods you can eat for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Liquid foods do not include mashed foods, such as mashed potato or avocado. Eating only a full liquid diet can give you enough energy, protein, and fat. But it does not give you enough fiber. Also, you may not get all the vitamins and minerals you need. So, your doctor may recommend that you take certain vitamins and supplements. This diet is safe for people with diabetes, but only when they are followed closely by their doctor. |