" A diet of clear liquids maintains vital body fluids, salts, and minerals; and also gives some energy for patients when normal food intake must be interrupted. Clear liquids are easily absorbed by the body. They reduce stimulation of the digestive system, and leave no residue in the intestinal tract. This is why a clear liquid diet is often prescribed in preparation for surgery, and is generally the first diet given by mouth after surgery. Clear liquids are given when a person has been without food by mouth (NPO) for a long time. This diet is also used in preparation for medical tests such as sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, or certain x-rays."
http://www.gicare.com/pated/edtgs14.htm ~ ~ ~ ~
2.) Full Liquid Diet.....Purpose ... Nutrition Facts (Food Groups; Sample Menu)
" The full liquid diet is used as a step between a clear liquid diet and a regular diet. It is often used after surgery or fasting. It may be used after certain procedures, such as jaw wiring. This diet may also be appropriate for patients who have swallowing and chewing problems."
http://www.gicare.com/pated/edtgs15.htm
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3.) There's Always Room for Jell-O!.....The Clear Liquid Diet ... The Full Liquid Diet ... The Lactose-Free Diet
" Physicians prescribe these diets for good reasons. After abdominal surgery, patients are normally started on a Clear Liquid Diet. This eases the digestive tract into processing food again after the trauma of surgery. A Full Liquid Diet may be prescribed as the next small step on the way to solid foods. Finally the Restricted Fiber Diet may be utilized for a period of time before the physician determines that a regular diet may be resumed."
http://ibscrohns.about.com/library/weekly/aa060800a.htm