What to Eat for Diarrhea in Infants and Young Children

Dec 29, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhou Chao

Introduction

When infants and young children have diarrhea, their digestive function and absorption capacity decrease. Therefore, it is important to adopt a diet of small, frequent meals. The staple diet generally does not need to be changed. For example, breastfeeding can continue, but mothers should avoid consuming allergenic foods. If the infant is formula-fed, lactose intolerance secondary to viral intestinal infection (such as rotavirus) should be considered.

Infants and young children have very weak gastrointestinal functions, so even minor dietary lapses can lead to diarrhea. What should infants and young children eat when they have diarrhea?

What Should Infants and Young Children Eat During Diarrhea?

During diarrhea, infants' and young children's digestive and absorptive functions are reduced. Therefore, it is important to adopt a diet of small, frequent meals. The staple diet generally does not need to be changed. For example, breastfeeding can continue as usual, but mothers should avoid consuming foods that may cause allergies. If the child is fed with formula milk, considering possible lactose intolerance secondary to intestinal viral infections (such as rotavirus), it may be advisable to switch temporarily to a lactose-free formula. Regarding complementary foods, children can continue eating foods they have already adapted to, such as porridge, noodles, vegetables, and meat, but should avoid foods high in fiber, spicy or irritating foods, and any new complementary foods that haven't been previously introduced. New foods should not be introduced during episodes of diarrhea.

Causes of infantile diarrhea include various pathogens, physical factors, dietary factors, and climatic factors. Pathogenic infections include intestinal and extraintestinal infections. Physiological factors: infants' digestive systems, nervous regulation, endocrine function, circulatory system, liver and kidney functions are immature, resulting in poor regulatory capacity.

Infants also have immature immune function in their bodies and intestinal mucosa. Dietary factors: improper feeding can cause diarrhea, which is more common in artificially fed children. Allergy-related diarrhea—for instance, allergy to cow's milk or soy products—can also trigger diarrhea. We hope this information is helpful to you. Wishing you good health and happiness!

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What Should You Do for Anal Eczema in Infants and Young Children?

When infants and young children develop perianal eczema, prompt treatment should be initiated. Under a physician’s guidance, topical medications—including antimicrobial, antipruritic, heat-clearing, detoxifying, and dampness-resolving ointments or solutions—may be applied. The affected area may also be gently cleansed (note: “smoking” in the original text is likely a mistranslation; it should refer to cleansing or washing). Oral antihistamines and antibiotics may be prescribed as needed. Additionally, diligent daily care is essential: minimize diaper use, keep the perianal skin clean and dry, and ensure a balanced, appropriate diet.