What is a clear liquid diet and why is it beneficial for Diverticulitis?
If the symptoms of diverticulitis are severe, a clear liquid diet is recommended. Going without solid food gives the colon a chance to rest and heal. Your doctor may recommend a clear liquid diet immediately after surgery until your digestive system regains the strength to absorb and digest fiber. A clear liquid diet is typically followed by a low residue (or low fiber) diet.
Allowed foods in a clear liquid diet:
- Plain water
- Fruit juices without pulp, such as apple juice, grape juice or cranberry juice
- Strained lemonade or fruit punch
- Bouillon, broths, fat free consommé, and strained vegetable broth
- Clear sodas or sports drinks
- Plain gelatin
- Jelly (without seeds), honey are also acceptable
- Ice pops without bits of fruit or fruit pulp
- Tea or coffee with no cream, Calming Blends tea
A typical menu on the clear liquid diet may look like this:
Breakfast:
- One glass fruit juice
- One glass water
- One cup broth
- One bowl gelatin
Mid-Morning Snack:
- One cup coffee or tea (without cream)
- One bowl gelatin
Lunch:
- One glass fruit juice
- One glass water
- One cup broth
- One bowl gelatin
Afternoon Snack:
- One ice pop (without fruit pulp)
- One cup coffee (without cream) or tea or soft drink
Dinner:
- One cup juice or water
- One cup broth
- One bowl gelatin
- One cup coffee or tea (without cream), Calming Blends tea
The Calming Blends Tea can be an excellent addition to your clear liquid diet for Diverticulitis.
