What can I feed my child when she has gastroenteritis?

Does the BRAT diet help?
The bananas, rice, applesauce, toast (BRAT) diet, once recommended while recovering from diarrhea, is no longer considered useful. Because BRAT diet foods are low in fiber, protein, and fat, the diet lacks enough nutrition to help a child's gastrointestinal tract recover. Some research shows  that it may actually make symptoms last longer. Ideally, children can resume eating a normal, well-balanced diet appropriate for their age within 24 hours of getting sick.  Some children are not able to tolerate cow's milk for a couple of weeks when they have diarrhea and it may briefly be removed from the diet by your child's doctor. Breastfeeding though should continue.


When should my child see a doctor for vomiting and diarrhea?
Call your pediatrician or seek medical attention immediately  if you are worried or if:
Your infant is under 3 months of age and has a fever or vomiting and diarrhea
Your child has signs of dehydration: no urine in over 8 hours, no tears, dry mouth, etc.
Abdominal pain and or green vomit
Especially if there is also severe abdominal pain

Source: AAP
Dr Irene Papaconstadopoulos, MD FAAP
Www.champspediatrics.com
Instagram:
@drirene_pediatrician
@champspediatricskihei
‪@champspediatricsmaui‬