B.R.A.T Diet and Gastrointestinal Infections

B.R.A.T DIET is one type of diets that is usually recommended by the doctors mostly for

the infants who suffer from diarrhea or receiving from a gastrointestinal infection. It stands for Banana, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast. It is low in the content of protein, fat, and fiber. This diet is NOT ideal from a nutritional standpoint for long term use or weight loss regime as that would have adverse nutritional effects on the body. The purpose of this diet is especially for infants with an upset stomach is to give the gut a rest and reduced the amount of the stool produced as the gastrointestinal system recover.

Some alternatives foods can replace the B.R.A.T diet, include:

• Low sodium crackers

• Boiled potatoes

• Light vegetable soups

• Honey (as a spread for the toast)

• Pasta and light tomato sauce

• Light chicken broth

On the other hand, food that should be avoided during the time of having the incidence in general include:

• Carbonated soft drinks

• Sugary drinks, including fruit juices

• Chewing gum, since it can cause gas and bloating

• Fatty, fried, greasy foods

• Raw vegetables, fruits and nuts

• Dairy products, mainly if you suffer from lactose intolerance

However, The American Academy of Pediatrics now recommends that kids resume eating a normal, well-balanced diet appropriate for their age within 24 hours of getting sick. The recovery diet should include a mix of fruits, vegetables, complex carbohydrates, and meat as tolerated. Drinking plenty of fluids is also advisable to restore the loss of fluids and electrolytes as result of the infections.

Source: BRAT Diet: How Does the BRAT Diet Work? | Low Carb Diets.(n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.low-carb-diets.net/brat-diet-how-does-the-brat-diet-work/