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Bananas and upset stomach

Alternative Names

BRAT diet

Information

Bananas are part of the BRAT diet, a diet many physicians and nurses recommend for children recovering from gastrointestinal problems, particularly diarrhea. BRAT stands for the different components that make up the diet:

  • Bananas
  • Rice cereal
  • Applesauce
  • Toast

These are binding foods that may help make the stools harder. DO NOT feed these foods to young infants unless directed by your doctor.

Bananas and other solid foods are generally not recommended for a person who is actively vomiting. Stick to clear liquids at that time. Once you or your child is ready to start eating solid foods again, it is best to start with bland foods. Bananas are considered to be a bland food, as are:

  • Clear soups
  • Dry toast
  • Gelatin

Bananas are also high in potassium, an electrolyte that may be lost due to vomiting and diarrhea.

Review Date: 8/7/2009
Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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