Liquid Diet Plans
You must have come upon the liquid diet that is followed by many people around the globe. Although, meant for patients to follow prior to and post surgery, it’s regarded as one of several fad diets and is widely used for weight loss. Medical professionals prescribe this diet for patients pre and post surgery to clean the stomach and intestines of food.
Liquid diet, as the title suggests, is the diet plan where a person consumes only liquids for a specific time frame. No solid foods are permitted in this diet. Liquid diets can be broken into two sub types: full liquid diet and clear liquid diet. In the former, any liquid foods (milk, honey, shakes) are consumed while in the latter only transparent liquids (like clear soup, clear fruit juices) are consumed. The clear liquid diet before surgery is prescribed, to ensure that no food remains inside the stomach before surgery (particularly that of the intestinal tract). It helps in cleaning the gastrointestinal tract of any undesired residue. Conversely, a clear liquid diet for colonoscopy benefits in leaving the stomach and colon clear of any residue. Also, having it following the surgery is extremely advantageous as the individual might not be advised to have solid food or a regular diet just after surgery.
On the flip side the liquid diet has quickly caught on and used as a diet to shed weight quickly. The weight loss is fast since the calorie consumption is considerably diminished for the reason that fluids are the lone constituents of the diet. Individuals adhering to this diet usually ingest vegetable soups and broths, fruits juices, etc to provide their bodies with all the necessary nutritional supplements. This is unquestionably better than the usual carbonated and sports drinks. Outlined below are a summary of foods which are appropriate for this diet.
Fruit juices without pulp
Vegetable broth
Vegetable soups
Milk and milk shakes
Strained lemonade
Fruit punch
Sports Drinks
Gelatin based products and jellies
Honey, honey in lemon water, honey in milk
Clear ice pops, candies
Tea, coffee without cream
Fruits purees
Smooth and clear ice cream
One can include any of these ingredients as breakfast, lunch and dinner. Though, these liquid diet ideas are meant only for extremely obese people , many individuals adhere to this diet on a regular basis for weight loss. The liquid diet intended for surgery is implemented only 3-4 days pre and post surgery. While, that meant for weight loss can be followed for 3-40 days. It’s also advised that one must not surpass the diet for longer than the prescribed period. On the other hand, it’s also recommended to not begin having solid foods immediately, as it may result in heartburn, diarrhea, etc. Additionally it is advised to not exercise while you’re on a liquid diet, as it can reduce the metabolism and result in decrease of muscle mass.
As effective as this diet can be it is not without its fair share of side effects. Difficulties like constipation and difficulties digesting food might occur especially if the diet is lacking in an appropriate source of fiber. Additional problems like lack of energy, fatigue, vomiting, loose motions and others can also arise. Another important point to note is that while the diet is effective in reducing weight any advantages can be quickly reversed once the individual returns to normal food. As with all weight loss programs a health care provider should be consulted before beginning to prevent injury to one’s health.
If you have chosen to adhere to this diet plan, you can search for the best liquid diet. Check with your doctor and complete the diet under his supervision.
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