Diarrhea Management with the "White Diet"

We have all heard of treating diarrhea with clear liquids. To replace fluids lost in the initial hours of the diarrhea it is recommended to give clear liquids with sugar and salt combinations like Pedialyte or sports drinks (Gatorade or PowerAde).

However, if clear liquids only are given for more than 6-10 hours, the body will not be able to make firm stools because there no solids are being given. You can even make the diarrhea worse by giving liquids alone for too long and withholding solid food.

Diarrhea is the body’s way of flushing out the intestinal infection. During the infection the cells lining the intestine are actually damaged by the invading microbe (almost always a virus). This makes it difficult to digest normal foods. The healing process is enhanced by feeding your child or infant foods that are easily digested. These are what I call the “white foods”. White foods are generally foods high in simple carbohydrates that can be easily broken down and absorbed. Examples include:

• Rice? - rice cereal for young infants, smashed for older infants
• Bread or toast
• Crackers or saltines
• Noodles or pasta - may be mashed up for infants 6-12 months
• Potatoes - instant mashed potatoes mixed to the consistency of apple sauce (add a small amount of butter for taste and calories)
• Banana - pureed, smashed or whole

AVOID:

• Dairy products (cow’s milk) - difficult to digest because of the lactose. May substitute lactose-free milk or soy milk/formula
• Fruits and vegetables - generally high in fiber and difficult to digest (except banana)