Milly Gaines
The BRAT diet, which stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, was once a go-to recommendation for upset stomachs, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The diet consists of bland, easy-to-digest foods that are gentle on the stomach and help reduce symptoms of stomach illnesses. While the BRAT diet can be helpful for short durations, it is no longer widely recommended due to its restrictive nature and lack of essential nutrients, which can slow down recovery. Instead, it is suggested to focus on adequate hydration and oral rehydration solutions to prevent dehydration and replenish electrolytes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of drinks | Liquids that contain some sugar and salt, such as Pedialyte or apple juice with a pinch of salt, coconut water, Gatorade, Powerade, bone broth, weak tea, oral rehydration solutions, etc. |
| Purpose | To prevent dehydration, which is a serious potential complication of diarrhea. |
| Oral rehydration solution | 1 Liter of clean or boiled water, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 6 teaspoons of sugar. Stir until both salt and sugar are completely dissolved. |
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What You'll Learn
Oral rehydration solutions
To make an oral rehydration solution at home, you can mix 1 litre of clean or boiled water with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 6 teaspoons of sugar. It is important to stir the mixture until both the salt and sugar are completely dissolved. This homemade solution can be useful in preventing dehydration, which can be a serious complication of diarrhoea.
Oral rehydration therapy is a highly successful treatment, having prevented millions of deaths due to diarrhoea since 2007, especially in children. Children are more susceptible to dehydration due to diarrhoea because of their higher metabolic rate and their inability to recognise thirst or hydrate themselves. Oral rehydration therapy is also useful for older people and those with medical conditions who are at a higher risk of dehydration.
It is important to note that oral rehydration solutions should be used with caution and preferably under medical supervision. If used improperly, they can lead to salt toxicity, also known as hypernatremia. In some cases, drinking plain water may be sufficient, and it is recommended to consult a doctor to determine the best course of action.
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Electrolyte drinks
The BRAT diet, which stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, is a low-fibre diet that was once recommended for treating stomach issues, digestive illnesses, and diarrhoea. It is no longer recommended for children due to the risk of nutritional deficiencies. Electrolyte drinks are an important part of the BRAT diet, as they help to replace lost electrolytes and prevent dehydration.
There are a variety of electrolyte drinks that can be consumed as part of the BRAT diet. Over-the-counter electrolyte drinks, such as Pedialyte, are easily accessible and can also be found in popsicle form. Coconut water is another natural source of electrolytes that can be consumed. Additionally, sports drinks like Gatorade and Powerade can help replenish electrolytes and are commonly available.
It is important to prioritize hydration when experiencing diarrhoea or stomach illnesses. In addition to electrolyte drinks, water is essential for preventing dehydration. Broth, weak tea, and oral rehydration solutions are also recommended to stay hydrated and replenish electrolytes. These solutions can be purchased over the counter or made at home by mixing boiled water with salt and sugar.
While the BRAT diet can be helpful for a short duration, it is important to be mindful of its limitations. The diet lacks essential nutrients and may not provide sufficient calories, especially for children. As such, it is generally recommended that individuals resume a normal, well-balanced diet within 24 hours to ensure adequate nutrition and support the recovery process.
In summary, electrolyte drinks play a crucial role in the BRAT diet, offering hydration and electrolyte replenishment. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional and follow their recommendations regarding diet and nutrition, especially for children.
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Apple juice
The BRAT diet is no longer recommended for children with diarrhea because it is too restrictive and lacks essential nutrients. However, it is still considered a handy way to remember the types of foods that are gentle on an upset stomach.
In addition to apple juice, other recommended drinks on the BRAT diet include bone broth, coconut water, Pedialyte, weak tea, and oral rehydration solutions. It is important to prioritize staying hydrated while on the BRAT diet, especially when experiencing diarrhea, as dehydration is a serious potential complication.
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Broth
The BRAT diet, which stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, is a low-fibre diet that was once recommended for treating stomach issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. It is no longer advised, especially for children, because of how restrictive it is and because it lacks essential nutrients.
Chicken broth is a good way to replenish electrolytes for mild dehydration, which is why it is included in the BRAT diet. It is also very high in sodium, which is often lost due to vomiting or diarrhoea. Vegetable broth is another option.
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Tea
The BRAT diet, which stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, is often recommended for treating stomach issues, digestive illnesses, and diarrhea. It consists of bland, low-fiber foods that are easy to digest and gentle on the stomach. While the BRAT diet can be helpful for short durations, it is not recommended for long-term use as it lacks essential nutrients.
When it comes to drinks, it is important to stay hydrated, especially if you are experiencing diarrhea, as it can lead to dehydration. Here are some drinks that are generally considered safe to consume while on the BRAT diet:
Weak tea is often recommended as a drink option while on the BRAT diet. Tea is a gentle and soothing drink that can help with nausea and stomach discomfort. However, it is important to avoid milk and dairy products for the first few days of the BRAT diet, so it is best to drink your tea plain or with a small amount of honey. You should also avoid herbal teas that may upset your stomach, such as peppermint or chamomile. Instead, opt for ginger or black tea, as ginger is known to help soothe an upset stomach. Be mindful of the temperature as well, and allow the tea to cool down to room temperature or cooler before drinking.
It is important to listen to your body and adjust your tea preparation methods as needed. For example, if you find that tea makes your stomach more upset, you may need to reduce the amount of tea you drink or switch to plain water or another clear liquid. Additionally, while weak tea can be a good option, be careful not to overdo it, as too much tea can act as a diuretic, which can contribute to dehydration.
Overall, weak tea can be a comforting and hydrating drink option while on the BRAT diet, especially when made with ingredients that are gentle on the stomach and prepared at a temperature that is comfortable for you.
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Frequently asked questions
BRAT stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. It was once recommended for treating stomach issues, but is now considered too restrictive and lacking in essential nutrients.
It is important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Recommended drinks include water, apple juice, coconut water, Pedialyte, weak tea, broth, sports drinks, and rehydration solutions.
The BRAT diet was once commonly recommended for children with upset stomachs, but experts now say it may not be the best option due to its lack of nutritional value. It can also be used by adults to treat stomach issues, but only for a short period.
The BRAT diet should not be followed for more than 24 hours as it may slow down recovery. If symptoms persist or get worse, consult a doctor as there may be a more serious medical condition.
