How Much Should I Exercise on a Liquid Diet?

You’ve heard about liquid diets and may be wondering what they entail and if one could benefit you 3. A proper liquid diet should be done under a doctor’s care; your doctor may prescribe it to you. If you have been exercising, talk to you doctor about changes that may be necessary to accommodate your diet and your workouts.

Clear-Liquid Diet

A clear-liquid diet consists of liquids that are completely or partially transparent 1. Water, broth, honey, Popsicles or clear sodas are examples of drinks acceptable while on a clear-liquid diet 1. This type of diet is commonly prescribed by your doctor if you’re about to undergo a test or procedure requiring your stomach to be empty. It may also be prescribed during the hours or days immediately following surgery. A clear-liquid diet is a short-term program because it does not provide your body with the calories and nutrients it needs 1.

Full-Liquid Diet

A Clear Liquid Diet Before a CT Scan

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A full-liquid diets is comprised of foods that are liquid at room temperature but do not have to be transparent 3. All the foods from the clear-liquid diet are allowed, plus creamy soups, milkshakes, smoothies, liquid supplements and others 1. This diet is also prescribed by a doctor before a test or procedure; however, it is also a means for weight loss. Your body’s complete nutritional needs can be met with a full-liquid diet as long as you monitor your intake 2.

Exercise

The frequency and intensity of exercise you participate in while on a liquid diet depends on the type of diet you’re on, the reasons behind it and its nutrient quality. If you’re preparing for tests or surgery and are following a clear-liquid diet, you may need to limit your exercise to low intensity and short duration because this diet may not provide enough energy to sustain a workout along with daily activities 1. After your procedure, only resume exercise when your doctor feels it’s safe. If you’re doing a full-liquid diet, you have more options for exercise 2. As previously mentioned, if you’re on the diet to prepare for tests or surgery you may need to limit exercise based upon your doctor’s instructions. However, if you’re using the diet for weight loss you should be able to begin or maintain any exercise program, assuming your calorie and nutrient intake is enough to support your lifestyle.

Considerations

What Types of Food Are Considered a Clear Liquid Diet?

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Consult your doctor when beginning any exercise regimen to ensure you are healthy. If you are on a liquid diet, or will be starting a liquid diet, consult your doctor to determine if exercise is appropriate for the duration of your program. If your diet will be for weight loss, or a long-term program, consider visiting a registered dietitian to discuss the nutrient value of your diet to help you meet your weight goals as well as provide your body with the nutrition it requires.