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BRAT Diet for Colitis

Colitis is an inflammation of the colon that causes diarrhea, cramping and abdominal pain. If diarrhea continues for a long time, weight loss can occur. If you have colitis, you will need to restrict your diet to ease these symptoms. The BRAT diet, consisting of bananas, rice, applesauce and toast, is often recommended by doctors during bouts of diarrhea. The BRAT diet is not a permanent diet, and should be used on a short-term basis only because of its limited nutritional value.

  1. Stay on a Liquid Diet for the First 24 Hours

    • If you have diarrhea from colitis you should first limit your diet to clear fluids for 24 hours to allow your colon to rest. If your stomach is upset you might just want to suck on ice chips or take small sips of water or flat soda. Make sure to avoid beverages with caffeine and alcohol. This will usually stop the diarrhea. Always make sure you stay hydrated and get plenty of liquids when you have bouts of diarrhea. You can gauge your hydration by noting the about and color of the urine you pass. If your urine is yellow and concentrated, be sure to increase your fluids.

    Start the BRAT Diet

    • After you have been on the liquid diet for 24 hours, you can begin eating the BRAT diet of bananas, rice, applesauce and toast. This BRAT diet is low in fiber and fat, and easy to digest. You can try adding tea and low-fat yogurt to the diet as you feel better. Make sure you continue to stay hydrated and drink clear liquids.

    Add Foods You Can Tolerate

    • Once the diarrhea and cramping have subsided, you should try adding other foods to your diet. However, you should avoid milk and dairy products (except for low-fat yogurt); fried, greasy and spicy foods, foods high in fat; raw vegetables and fruits; citrus juices and fruits; and beverages with alcohol and caffeine.

    Avoid Trouble Foods and Eat a Balanced Diet

    • You may find that some types of food may trigger abdominal pain and diarrhea. You should keep a food diary noting the foods that cause problems so you can avoid them. It is important that you eat a well-balanced diet. Ask your doctor if you should take a multivitamin if your diet is restricted due to colitis. You may want to visit a certified dietitian who can help you make good food choices and help you establish a diet that you can tolerate.

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