Diet for Diarrhea

Recommendations:

Continuing feeding is generally recommended. Bowel rest was once widely the treatment of choice, but current theory suggests that continuing feeding will result in diarrhea that is easier to manage.

For babies, breastfeedings or formula should be continued. In some cases children develop a mild and temporary lactose intolerance which may necessitate a switch from regular milk to a soy formula such as Isomil, Prosobee, or Nursoy. Babies who are taking solid foods should continue to do so. Some suggested foods include; bananas or apple sauce, starches like white rice or rice cereal, noodles, potatoes or toasted white bread. Small amounts of ground or finely chopped meats may also be offered if they have already been introduced in your child's diet.

The B.R.A.T. diet is a common treatment for diarrhea used with children once they begin eating solid foods. B.R.A.T. diet is an acronym with each letter representing a food.
+- B: bananas
+- R: rice (or other starchy food)
+- A: applesauce
+- T: toast

Similar foods may be offered to the older child. Decrease or avoid fats and sweets until the diarrhea subsides.

Accompany these foods with lots of clear fluids for the 24 to 48 hours. Fluid intake is very important because it is easy for a child with diarrhea to become dehydrated. Dehydration is a serious condition in babies and young children. Fluids lost need to be replaced. Babies should be given about 2 ounces per hour. In addition to breast milk or formula babies should be offered a rehydration solution (Pedialyte, Lytren, or similar electrolyte balanced fluids). These solutions are available at the supermarket or pharmacy and you do not need a prescription. Offer small amounts every few minutes up to eight ounces between bowel movements. Avoid sweetened beverages like soda pop, non-carbonated soft drinks, sports drinks and fruit juices.

Older children can be offered water, diluted juices, or sports beverages. Be aware that too many sweetened beverages can worsen diarrhea, but your child does need to replace lost fluid so it is best that drinks be dilute.

As stools begin to be more formed, your child can gradually return to a normal diet. Begin adding other types of food, adding those high in fiber such as raw fruits and vegetables last. After one week of treatment, you can begin introducing milk in small amounts. Too much milk too soon may create a set back in treatment.

Diarrhea that is caused by antibiotics may be prevented by feeding yogurt with live active cultures.

DIARRHEA THAT IS SEVERE OR PERSISTENT (LASTING LONGER THAN 2 OR 3 DAYS) CAN BE SERIOUS AND YOU SHOULD CONTACT YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER FOR ADVICE REGARDING THIS CONDITION. Medications may be prescribed by your health care provider to help control diarrhea.