What is a full liquid diet?

A full liquid diet includes foods and drinks that will turn liquid if left at room temperature. It can give your body many of the nutrients it needs, but it may be low in certain vitamins and minerals. It's also low in fibre. This diet is only meant to be used for a short time. If you will be on a full liquid diet for more than 3 days, talk to your dietitian about how to make sure you get the calories, protein, and nutrients you need.

Why is it used?

A full liquid diet is often used when you can't eat solid foods. For example, you may be preparing for a medical procedure or healing from one. Or you could have problems with your mouth or throat that make it hard to chew or swallow.

What foods can you have?

Here are some of the foods and drinks you can have on a full liquid diet.

Talk to your doctor or a dietitian if you have food allergies or special diet needs. They can help you plan meals that work with your needs.

• Liquid meal supplements, such as Ensure, Boost, or Glucerna.
• Yogurt (without granola, nuts, seeds, or fruit).
• Strained cream soups or broths (no solids).
• Cooked and thinned hot cereals, such as cream of wheat or oatmeal.
• Milk, milkshakes, custard, and pudding.
• Plant-based beverages, such as soy, almond or coconut.
• Vegetable and fruit juices.
• Water, ice cubes, and ice chips.
• Drinks such as hot chocolate, coffee, tea, and soda.
• Sports drinks and oral rehydration solutions.
• Flavoured ice pops, such as Popsicles.
• Gelatin, such as Jell-O.
• Honey, sugar, and syrups.
• Ice cream (without add-ins like nuts, fruit, or candy pieces), frozen yogurt, sherbet, and sorbet.
• Half and half and cream.
• Butter or margarine.

What are some tips for eating well?

Here are some ways you can eat well on a full liquid diet.

• Make sure you're having enough.

  You may need to eat and drink more often to get the calories and nutrients you need.

  You may need to choose higher calorie and protein liquids to help maintain your weight. These may include liquid meal replacement drinks and full-fat dairy products, such as milk and yogurt.

• Choose what you like.

  Ask your dietitian if you're not sure if you can have a certain food or drink.

• Change the flavours.

  See what flavour options you have. Pick what you like or try something new.

• Add variety.

  There are many sweet liquid options. Try also having something savory, like soup and broth. Changing between hot and cold liquids can help keep things interesting.