A clear liquid diet consists of clear liquids — such as water, broth and plain gelatin. These are foods that are easily digested and leave no undigested residue in your intestinal tract. Clear liquids and foods may be colored so long as you are able to see through them. Foods can be considered liquid if they are even partly liquid at room temperature. A clear liquid diet can t provide you with adequate calories and nutrients, and therefore, it shouldn t be continued for more than a few days. A clear liquid diet helps maintain adequate hydration, provides some important electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, and gives some energy at a time when a full diet isn t possible or recommended. The following foods are allowed in a clear liquid diet: Water (plain, carbonated or flavored) Fruit juices without pulp, such as apple or white grape Fruit-flavored beverages, such as fruit punch or lemonade Carbonated drinks, including dark sodas (cola and root beer) Gelatin Tea or coffee without milk or cream Strained tomato or vegetable juice Sports drinks Clear, fat-free broth (bouillon or consomme) Honey or sugar Hard candy, such as lemon drops or peppermint rounds Ice pops without milk, bits of fruit, seeds or nuts