Can babies with diarrhea eat apples?

Sep 26, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng

Introduction

In general, babies can eat apples when they have diarrhea, but the proper method of consumption should be chosen. Eating raw apples directly may worsen diarrhea, while consuming them steamed or cooked is more appropriate. Parents are advised to prepare apples as apple puree or apple water for babies with diarrhea, avoiding added sugar or other additives. If a baby's diarrhea persists without improvement, or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever or vomiting, prompt medical attention is necessary.

In general, babies with diarrhea can eat apples, but the proper method of consumption should be chosen. Eating raw apples directly may worsen diarrhea, while consuming them steamed or cooked is more appropriate. The specific reasons are as follows:

Raw apples contain a relatively high amount of dietary fiber and pectin. The dietary fiber promotes intestinal motility, which may increase the frequency of bowel movements. After steaming or boiling, the dietary fiber in apples becomes softened and less irritating. Additionally, the pectin transforms into a gel-like substance that can absorb excess water in the intestines, helping to reduce bowel movement frequency and alleviate loose stools.

Moreover, apples contain vitamins and minerals, many of which remain after cooking. These nutrients can help provide energy for babies during episodes of diarrhea. Apples also have a mild taste and are unlikely to irritate the gastrointestinal tract.

When giving apples to a baby with diarrhea, parents are advised to prepare them as apple puree or apple water, avoiding added sugar or other additives. If the baby's diarrhea persists without improvement, or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever or vomiting, prompt medical attention is necessary and reliance on dietary remedies alone should be avoided.

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What foods are good for a baby with diarrhea?

Under normal circumstances, babies with diarrhea can eat easily digestible, nutritious foods that may help alleviate symptoms, such as bananas, white rice porridge, cooked apples, carrot puree, and egg yolk puree. If the baby's diarrhea is severe, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo targeted treatment under the guidance of a doctor. At the same time, it is important to maintain proper dietary hygiene for the baby during the period of diarrhea.

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Can babies with diarrhea eat Malabar spinach?

If the infant's diarrhea is caused by non-infectious factors such as improper diet or exposure to cold, and if the frequency of diarrhea is low without abdominal pain or vomiting, Malabar spinach (Basella alba) can be thoroughly cooked until soft, mashed into a puree, and given in small amounts. At this time, the intestine still maintains a certain digestive capacity; small amounts of dietary fiber can help improve intestinal function. Additionally, Malabar spinach is rich in water and vitamins, which can help replenish some nutrients and fluids lost due to diarrhea.