What to Feed During Diarrhoea?

A simple rule to remember: keep it bland, light, and easy to digest.

The BRAT Diet

One of the most well-known diets for diarrhoea, BRAT stands for:

• Banana
• Rice
• Applesauce
• Toast

These foods are gentle on the stomach and help firm up stools. You can also include:

• Clear broths
• Coconut water (natural electrolytes)
• Mashed potatoes (without butter)
• Khichdi or dal-rice with a little ghee
• Boiled eggs
• Well-cooked carrots or pumpkin
• Homemade curd or yogurt

Probiotics: Restore the Gut

Probiotics are your child’s gut's best friend — these "good bacteria" help restore balance and fight off infection. Giving your child a probiotic supplement or foods like curd and yogurt during and after diarrhoea can:

• Rebuild healthy gut flora
• Speed up recovery
• Reduce the chances of recurrent episodes

ORS: The Hydration Lifesaver

Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) is essential during diarrhoea to prevent dehydration, a common and dangerous complication in kids.

ORS replenishes the body’s lost fluids and salts. Here's how to make it at home:

Mix ½ tsp of salt and 6 level tsp of sugar in 1 litre of clean, boiled, and cooled water.

You can also use lightly salted rice water or pre-packaged ORS sachets from your pharmacy.

Give small sips every few minutes — this is especially important if your child is vomiting or very weak.

Foods to Avoid During Diarrhoea

Some foods can worsen diarrhoea or irritate the digestive system. Avoid these until your child has fully recovered:

• Raw or coarse fruits & vegetables
• Whole grains or high-fiber cereals
• Very dilute soups (not nourishing enough)
• Fried, fatty or spicy foods
• Sweets or sugary snacks
• Soft drinks, soda or energy drinks
• Processed or packaged junk foods