Leena Watts
The BRAT diet is a low-fibre, bland food eating plan used to treat stomach illnesses. It is often recommended for patients suffering from diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, or stomach flu. The BRAT diet stands for bananas, rice, apples or applesauce, and toast. While it may help relieve symptoms in some people, doctors do not recommend following this diet due to the risk of nutritional deficiencies.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What is it? | A low-fibre, bland food eating plan used to treat stomach illnesses |
| Who is it for? | Patients suffering from nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or the stomach flu. |
| Who is it not for? | Children and infants, due to the risk of malnutrition and low energy. |
| Foods to eat | Bananas, rice, apples or applesauce, toast, crackers, chicken broth, avocado, pumpkin, canned fruit, steamed or boiled vegetables, low-fibre starches, white bread, saltine crackers, cream of wheat, instant oatmeal, noodles, boiled potatoes, and cooked grains. |
| Foods to avoid | Sugary, high-fat, spicy, or dairy foods. This includes citrus fruits, raw vegetables, fried foods, caffeinated beverages, and alcohol. |
| Duration | Short-term only. |
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What You'll Learn
- Bananas, rice, applesauce and toast are the staple foods of the BRAT diet
- It is used to treat nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea
- It is not recommended for children due to the risk of nutritional deficiencies
- It is a short-term diet to treat gastrointestinal illnesses
- It is a low-fibre, bland food plan that is gentle on the stomach
Bananas, rice, applesauce and toast are the staple foods of the BRAT diet
The BRAT diet is a short-term eating plan that involves consuming low-fibre, bland foods to treat stomach illnesses. It is often recommended for patients with nausea, vomiting, or acute diarrhoea, which typically resolves within a few days with dietary changes. The BRAT diet is not suitable for long-term use due to the risk of nutritional deficiencies, and it is no longer advised for children.
Bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast are the staple foods of the BRAT diet. Bananas contain pectin, a starch beneficial for digestive health, and have been shown to help reduce diarrhoea and constipation in children. While apples are also part of the diet, applesauce is often recommended as it is softer and easier to digest. White rice is a low-fibre starch that is gentle on the stomach, and toast made from white bread is also allowed.
In addition to these staple foods, other mild, bland foods can be included in the BRAT diet. Saltine crackers, oatmeal, boiled potatoes, and cooked grains like oatmeal or rice are suitable options. Chicken or vegetable broth is also recommended to stay hydrated, which is crucial when recovering from stomach illnesses.
It is important to note that the BRAT diet is restrictive and should only be followed for a limited time. It lacks sufficient protein, fat, and fibre, which can lead to malnutrition and low energy if followed for extended periods. The diet should be supplemented with other foods to ensure adequate nutrition, and it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new diet, especially when treating medical conditions.
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It is used to treat nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea
The BRAT diet is often recommended as a short-term treatment for nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, particularly in children. It is a restrictive diet that aims to give the digestive system a "break" by introducing easily digestible, bland foods that are gentle on the stomach and intestines. The BRAT diet is effective in managing these symptoms because it includes foods that are low in fiber, mild in taste and smell, and starchy, which helps to bind loose stools and form more solid stools. This is especially beneficial for diarrhea, as it can help slow down the movement of stools through the intestines, giving the body time to absorb water and solidify the stools. The BRAT diet is also useful for nausea and vomiting due to the simplicity and blandness of the foods, which are less likely to irritate the stomach or trigger further nausea or vomiting.
Bland foods are an important part of the BRAT diet's effectiveness in treating these symptoms. Bananas, for example, are a good source of potassium, which can help replace electrolytes lost through diarrhea or vomiting. They are also easily digestible and gentle on the stomach. Rice is another food that is easy to digest and can help bind stools. Applesauce, while providing some natural sweetness, is also mild and soothing, and the pectin it contains can help solidify loose stools. Toast made from white bread is mild and low in fiber, making it less likely to irritate the digestive system.
It is important to note that the BRAT diet should only be followed for a short period, usually until symptoms improve and the person can tolerate a more varied and nutritious diet. This is because, while the BRAT diet is effective for treating nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, it lacks certain key nutrients necessary for long-term health. For example, the diet is low in protein, fat, and certain vitamins and minerals that are essential for overall health and well-being. Therefore, it is not recommended as a long-term dietary solution.
Additionally, it is worth noting that while the BRAT diet can be helpful for mild cases of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, it may not be sufficient for more severe cases or cases that are prolonged. In such instances, it is important to seek medical advice and follow the recommendations of a healthcare professional. They may suggest modifications to the BRAT diet or recommend alternative treatments or medications to address the symptoms more effectively. Staying properly hydrated is also crucial during this time, so ensuring adequate fluid intake is an important part of the recovery process.
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It is not recommended for children due to the risk of nutritional deficiencies
The BRAT diet, consisting of bananas, rice, apples or applesauce, and toast, is a low-fibre, bland food eating plan used to treat stomach illnesses. While it can be helpful for short durations, there are risks associated with following this diet for a long period of time. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD) do not recommend the BRAT diet for children with diarrhea due to the risk of nutritional deficiencies.
The BRAT diet is restrictive and does not provide enough protein, fat, and fiber, which can lead to malnutrition and low energy. A person who is unwell can eat more foods than those listed in the BRAT diet, and it is important to consume a varied, balanced diet to restore overall nutrition and energy levels. The IFFGD states that the BRAT diet has a limited nutritional profile, and it should be avoided for long periods. Prolonged use of the BRAT diet may lead to nutritional deficiencies, as it does not provide enough calories and vital nutrients.
The BRAT diet is often recommended for patients suffering from diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or the stomach flu. However, it is important to note that it should not be the only treatment for these conditions, especially in children. While bananas have a starch called pectin that is good for the digestive tract, and a 2019 study found that green banana pulp may help reduce diarrhea and constipation in children, the BRAT diet as a whole may not be effective or safe for treating stomach issues.
The possible effects of individual foods on diarrhea do not give an accurate picture of how a diet containing only those foods can affect the body. Some nutritional deficiencies could make diarrhea worse. It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider if diarrhea lasts more than three days or is accompanied by concerning symptoms such as fever, weight loss, lightheadedness, rectal bleeding, or abdominal pain. Dehydration is the biggest concern after a stomach illness, and it is important to sip fluids and introduce foods as soon as possible to prevent dehydration, which can be life-threatening.
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It is a short-term diet to treat gastrointestinal illnesses
The BRAT diet is a short-term approach to treating gastrointestinal illnesses. It is a low-fibre, bland food eating plan that is easy on the stomach and can help with recovery from stomach bugs like norovirus, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. The acronym BRAT stands for bananas, rice, apples or applesauce, and toast. The diet also includes other mild foods like saltines, oatmeal, boiled potatoes, crackers, and chicken broth.
The BRAT diet is designed to be followed for a limited time, and it is not recommended for long-term use due to the risk of nutritional deficiencies. It is no longer advised for children due to its restrictive nature, and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) does not recommend it for infants and children. The diet is low in protein, fat, and fibre, and while this makes it easy to digest, it may not provide enough calories and essential nutrients for growing children.
The theory behind the BRAT diet is that by consuming bland, gentle foods, symptoms of stomach illnesses can be reduced. Bananas, for example, contain pectin, a starch beneficial for digestive health. A 2019 systematic review found that green banana pulp may help reduce both diarrhoea and constipation in children. However, this does not prove that a diet of only bland foods is effective or safe for treating stomach issues. The BRAT diet should be approached with caution, and it is always best to consult a healthcare professional for advice on diet and nutrition, especially when it comes to children.
After a stomach illness, it is essential to focus on rehydration and gradually introduce foods as soon as they can be tolerated. While the BRAT diet may be a helpful transition, it is not the only option, and a balanced diet with a variety of nutritious foods is crucial for overall health and recovery. It is important to remember that individual responses to diets may vary, and it is always recommended to seek personalised advice from a qualified healthcare provider.
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It is a low-fibre, bland food plan that is gentle on the stomach
The BRAT diet is a low-fibre, bland food plan that is gentle on the stomach. It stands for bananas, rice, apples or applesauce, and toast. The diet was often recommended to treat nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea, especially after a stomach virus. It is also known as a gastrointestinal (GI) diet.
The BRAT diet is a short-term plan to help treat stomach illnesses. It is not backed by research, but it could aid in the transition to eating a wider range of foods after experiencing stomach problems. The diet is restrictive, and it is important to note that it does not provide enough protein, micronutrients, and macronutrients for healing. As such, it is no longer recommended for children and infants, especially for long-term use, due to the risk of malnutrition and other medical issues.
The foods included in the BRAT diet are low in protein, fat, and fibre, making them easy to digest. Bananas, for example, contain pectin, a starch beneficial for the digestive tract. Other foods that can be included in the diet are crackers, chicken broth, avocado, pumpkin, canned fruit, steamed or boiled vegetables, and cooked grains like oatmeal and rice. Foods to avoid are sugary, high in fat, spicy, or containing dairy, including citrus fruits, raw vegetables, fried foods, caffeinated beverages, and alcohol.
It is important to stay hydrated when following the BRAT diet, as dehydration can be life-threatening. It is also recommended to consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen, or if there are additional symptoms such as fever, weight loss, lightheadedness, rectal bleeding, or abdominal pain.
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Frequently asked questions
BRAT stands for bananas, rice, apples or applesauce, and toast. It is a low-fibre, bland food eating plan used to treat stomach illnesses.
Other mild foods that ease the GI tract such as saltines, crackers, oatmeal, boiled potatoes, avocado, pumpkin, canned fruit, steamed or boiled vegetables, and chicken broth.
The BRAT diet can help treat nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and can help refuel and recover after a stomach-related illness.
The BRAT diet is no longer recommended for children and infants due to the risk of nutritional deficiencies and the restrictive nature of the diet. It should only be followed for a limited time.
If you have been experiencing chronic diarrhea, fever, weight loss, lightheadedness, rectal bleeding, or abdominal pain for more than 3 days, you should consult your healthcare provider.
