Helping a Child with Diarrhea to Eat Properly

Diarrhea can result from various causes including infections, illnesses, food sensitivities, or certain medications. If your child is experiencing diarrhea, they may pass loose or watery stools for an extended period. Some episodes of diarrhea can be mild and resolve within a few days, while others may persist longer. To prevent dehydration or malnutrition during diarrhea, it's important to ensure your child stays hydrated and consumes foods that promote recovery and maintain their health.

Wait until your child has experienced multiple loose stool movements before adjusting their eating schedule. One loose stool movement doesn't necessarily indicate diarrhea, but several within a short timeframe suggest your child may have diarrhea and could benefit from dietary changes. Increasing fluid intake and modifying the diet are crucial for managing diarrhea at home, helping to prevent dehydration and malnutrition during recovery. Altering the eating schedule can also make eating more appealing for your child during diarrhea.

Opt for frequent, small meals for your child throughout the day. This approach is often gentler on their stomach during diarrhea and helps maintain their appetite. Serve meals in small portions throughout the day, accompanied by plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.

Serve your child her favorite foods to stimulate her appetite during diarrhea. Focus on ingredients she enjoys and prepare them in appealing ways. For instance, if she likes chicken, consider making chicken noodle soup—a comforting option rich in nutrients.

Gradually reintroduce your child to her regular eating routine once her diarrhea resolves. After two to three days, slowly transition back to her normal meals, including one to two full meals and smaller snacks. Avoid rushing the process to allow her body time to readjust.

Ensure your child remains well-hydrated to prevent dehydration during diarrhea. Start with plain water for the first one to two hours, then switch to fluids containing sodium and nutrients like milk. Aim for eight to ten glasses of liquids daily, avoiding fruit juices, carbonated drinks, and caffeine.

Opt for bland, starchy foods which are easier on your child's stomach during diarrhea. Season with only salt and pepper, and consider baking or broiling for milder flavors. Examples include baked or broiled meats, boiled eggs, plain pasta, cereals, and pancakes.

Remove seeds and skins from foods to make them more appealing and digestible for your child during diarrhea. Peel skins from fruits like zucchini and peaches, and deseed vegetables and fruits before serving.

Choose salty snacks to replenish sodium levels during diarrhea. Offer options like pretzels and saltine crackers, and add salt to cooked foods like chicken and potatoes. Ensure your child stays hydrated while consuming salty snacks.

Offer popsicles and jello to provide clear fluids and hydration during diarrhea. Opt for popsicles with minimal fruit juice and no dairy, and consider fruit jello to increase fiber intake for firmer stools.

Incorporate low-fat yogurt into your child's diet to restore beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract. Opt for low-fat, low-sugar varieties and consider blending with fruit for added flavor. Yogurt smoothies can be a tasty and hydrating option during diarrhea.

Avoid spicy or fatty foods as they can further irritate your child's stomach and exacerbate diarrhea. Steer clear of spiced foods like curries and fatty foods such as fried or processed foods.

Seek medical attention if your child's stool contains mucus or blood, as these could indicate a more serious issue. Also, observe for other severe symptoms like vomiting or high fever, and promptly bring her to a doctor if present.

Contact your child's doctor if diarrhea persists beyond two to three days. While most cases resolve within this timeframe, prolonged diarrhea warrants medical evaluation to determine appropriate treatment.

Visit a doctor if your child shows signs of severe dehydration, including a dry mouth, decreased urination, sunken eyes, decreased activity, and weight loss. Prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent complications.

Consult with the doctor about potential treatments. The doctor may conduct tests to identify the cause of your child's diarrhea and may prescribe antibiotics if necessary. However, antidiarrheal medications are generally avoided for children, with alternative options such as probiotics often recommended instead.