A full liquid diet is a type of medical diet usually prescribed to people who have just undergone gastrointestinal surgery. Similar to a soft liquid diet and a clear liquid diet, a full liquid diet also includes a list of specific foods that a person can, and cannot, consume.
Essentially, a full liquid diet consists of foods that are thick and creamy such as pudding, ice cream, and milk. The main reason why a medical doctor may prescribe a full liquid diet is that solid food is not digested properly following stomach surgery. In order to help a patient progress from a liquid diet to a normal diet, a full liquid diet is often prescribed as an intermediary step.
In addition to restricting the type of food that is consumed, a full liquid diet also consists of foods that are low in nutrients that are difficult to digest. Many foods that are part of this diet do not contain a large amount of iron, Vitamin A, and other nutrients. Thus, following any full liquid diet, many doctors will prescribe various supplements in order to restore essential nutrients within the body.
Not only does a full liquid diet consist of specific foods that should be avoided, but this type of diet is also comprised of carefully measured meal sizes. People who are prescribed this type of diet should eat three meals per day in conjunction with two or three snacks per day. Skipping meals while following this type of diet is not recommended.
The foods that a person is permitted to eat while following this kind of diet may vary from person to person. It is not recommended that people attempt to follow a diet of this manner simply to lose weight. In fact, this kind of diet should be reserved for those people who have undergone surgery. Those who wish to lose weight should speak with a certified nutritionist in order to determine the best possible diet for weight loss.
Even though liquid diets are becoming increasingly popular amongst the dieting community, these diets can be dangerous unless they are carefully monitored. Before beginning any kind of liquid diet, that is not a prescribed liquid diet, make sure to speak with a medical professional. Some people may benefit from a liquid diet, though this is not a diet that should be attempted without careful control and calculation.