STANDARD HOSPITAL DIET

Clear Liquid Diet

This diet is indicated for the postoperative patient's first feeding when it is necessary to fully ascertain
return of gastrointestinal function. It may also be used during periods of acute illness, in cases of food
intolerance, and to reduce colon fecal matter for diagnostic procedures

1. The diet is limited to fat-free broth or bouillon, flavored gelatin, water, fruit drinks
without pulp, fruit ice, Popsicles®, tea, coffee or coffee substitutes, and sugar. No cream
or creamers are used. Carbonated beverages may be included when ordered by the
physician; however, they are often contraindicated.

2. The standard menu mat (DA Form 2902-15R) provides approximately 1146 calories.
This diet is below the recommended dietary allowances (RDA) for all nutrients tabulated
except for Vitamin C (ascorbic acid). If the patient is to be on clear liquids for an
extended period of time, the portion sizes should be increased or an accepted enteral
formula may be provided.

Full Liquid Diet

This diet is used when a patient is unable to chew or swallow solid food because of extensive oral
surgery, facial injuries, esophageal strictures, and carcinomas of the mouth and esophagus. It may be used
to transition between a clear liquid and a regular diet for the post-surgical patient.

Dental Soft Diet

This diet is prescribed for patients who are recovering from extensive oral surgery, have severe
gingivitis, have had multiple extractions, have chewing difficulties because of tooth loss or other oral
condition, or for the very elderly, toothless patient.

1. The diet is composed of seasoned ground meats, vegetables, and other foods, which are easily
chewed. The individuality of the patient must not be overlooked when a dental soft diet is
prescribed. Many patients resent being served ground meat.
2. Standard menu mats available are DA Form 2902-6-R (dental soft diet) and DA Form 2906-13-R
(dental soft, 2000 mg sodium diet). The dental soft diet does not meet the RDA in thiamin for
males, nor iron for females.

Regular Diet
Regular diets are planned to meet the nutritional needs of adolescents, adults, and geriatric phases of the
life span.

1. The regular diet includes the basic food groups and a variety of foods. The basic food groups
include meat, milk, vegetables, fruits, bread and cereal, fats, and sweets.
2. The standard menu mat, DA Form 2901-R (Regular Diet) provides approximately 3375 calories.
The selective menu is developed by each individual hospital according to patient needs, food
availability, and cost. The regular diet is designed to provide exceptionally generous amounts of
all recognized nutrients and meets or exceeds the RDA for all nutrients tabulated.
 3. The Food Guide Pyramid is an outline of what we should eat each day (see figure 5-1). It shows
six food groups, but emphasizes foods from the five food groups shown in the lower sections of
the Pyramid. You need food from each group for good health. Each of the food groups provides
some of the nutrients you need. Food from one group cannot replace those of another group

Liberal Bland Diet

This diet is indicated for any medical condition requiring treatment for the reduction of gastric secretion,
such as gastric or duodenal ulcers, gastritis, esophagitis, or hiatal hernia.

1. The diet consists of any variety of regular foods and beverages, which are prepared or consumed
without black pepper, chili powder, or chili pepper. Chocolate, coffee, tea, caffeine-containing
products, and decaffeinated coffee are not included in the diet. The diet should be as liberal as
possible and individualized to meet the needs of the patient. Foods, which cause the patient
discomfort, should be avoided. Small, frequent feedings may be prescribed to lower the acidity of
the gastric content and for the physical comfort of the patient.

2. The standard menu mat, DA Form 2902-1-R, provides 3213 calories. The liberal bland diet is
slightly below the RDA for thiamine and niacin for men 19 to 22 years of age. It is also below the
RDA in iron for women of all ages.

Low Fat Diet

Fat restricted diets may be indicated in diseases of the liver, gallbladder, or pancreas in which
disturbances of the digestion and absorption of fat may occur (pancreatitis, post-gastrointestinal surgery,
cholelithiasis, and cystic fibrosis).

1. The diet contains approximately 40 grams of fat from the six ounces of lean meat, fish, or
poultry, one egg and three teaspoons of butter, margarine, or other allowed fats. Only lean, well-
trimmed meats and skim milk are used. All foods are prepared without fat.

Regular Diet
Allows all types of foods which will promote health and lower the risk of developing major, chronic or
diet related diseases.

 The diet is a well-balanced diet created to provide 100 % of the recommended nutrient intake
 Another name: Normal diet. Standard diet, General hospital diet, Full diet or House diet

SOFT DIET
 Is a modification of the regular diet to provide a selection of foods that are soft in texture and
consistency, easily digested, and simply prepare
 It limits food items that are hard to chew and shallow; it is moderately low in indigestible carbohydrate
(cellulose) and connective tissues.
 Strongly flavored vegetables and fried foods are also restricted. These make the diet bland and lower in fat
content.
 Foods to include will greatly depend upon the client’s acceptance.
 Diet can be nutritionally complete in essential nutrients if foods are selected from a variety of sources.