PATIENT INFORMATION
What counts as a clear liquid?
A clear liquid is generally a drink you can see through, with no milk, pulp, fat or solid particles. These drinks leave the stomach relatively quickly.
Common examples of clear liquids
- Water
- Tea or coffee without milk
- Clear juice without pulp, such as clear apple juice
- Some carbohydrate or sports drinks, where the hospital allows them
- Oral rehydration solution, where the hospital allows it
Use the list supplied by your hospital, including any limits on amount and timing.
Usually not clear liquids
- Milk, lassi, buttermilk and curd-based drinks
- Smoothies, milkshakes and protein shakes
- Orange juice or other juice with pulp
- Soups or broths containing fat or solid pieces. Check your hospital’s instructions about clear, strained broth.
- Alcohol
Policies differ on a small amount of milk added to tea or coffee. Do not assume that a mixed drink is permitted unless your own instructions explicitly allow it.
Carbohydrate drinks
Some hospitals give a special carbohydrate drink before surgery. Use one only if it is part of your own plan. People with diabetes may be given different advice.
If you are unsure what a drink contains or whether it is allowed, check with the team responsible for your procedure.