Risks

A clear liquid diet can't give you all the calories and nutrients you need. Only use the clear liquid diet as directed by your healthcare professional.

If you are prescribed a clear liquid diet before a medical test, be sure to follow the diet instructions exactly. If you don't follow the diet exactly, you may not have correct test results. Or you may have to reschedule your test for another time.

If you have diabetes, talk with the healthcare professional who helps manage your condition. You may get specific instructions to help manage your blood sugar, also called blood glucose, while on a clear liquid diet. Test your blood glucose levels often. Return to solid foods as quickly as possible.