Dietary Tips after Gastroenteritis

Returning to a normal diet is a gradual process after severe stomach and/or bowel upset. Slowly reintroduce foods and avoid any foods that can cause an increase in your symptoms. Fasting is not recommended.

Here are some suggestions:

• Try room temperature clear liquids initially. Try clear liquids such as flat ginger ale or white soda, broths, popsicles, or apple juice. These will provide an oral source of fluids that are easily absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. Although these help replace fluids, minimal nutrition is provided. Carbonated beverages and juices are generally not tolerated.

• If clear liquids are tolerated, you can start to introduce solid foods. Choose foods low in fiber and lightly seasoned. Try foods such as cooked cereals, plain rice or pasta, toast, crackers, soft canned fruit, soups, mashed potatoes, or breads. Use small frequent meals instead of large portions. Avoid fresh fruits and vegetables, as they are high in fiber. Avoid heavily seasoned or fried foods. Spices and seasonings are usually kept to a minimum, but may be increased in accordance to the patient's tolerance.

• Avoid all dairy products such as milk products, cheeses, yogurt, and ice cream as they contain lactose and may cause diarrhea. As your symptoms improve, slowly reintroduce these foods using small portions.

• The diet must be individualized based on the symptoms you are having. Avoid all foods that increase your symptoms and slowly reintroduce them as you are feeling better. After the diarrhea begins to improve, the addition of more fiber (fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains) to your diet will be effective in increasing stool bulk and improving regularity.

David A. Severance, MD
Family Physician, Lincoln Avenue Clinic

Each year, Medical College of Wisconsin physicians care for more than 180,000 patients, representing nearly 500,000 patient visits. Medical College physicians practice at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital, the Milwaukee VA Medical Center, and many other hospitals and clinics in Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin.