What Foods Can You Eat on the BRAT Diet?

The BRAT diet is sometimes recommended for children and adults who are suffering from diarrhea, gastroenteritis or some forms of food poisoning. The diet's name is an acronym for the recommended foods: bananas, rice, apples and toast, which were chosen for their bland, low-fiber, but nutritious properties. It should be implemented when you can safely eat, for example, after you're finished vomiting, and should be accompanied by plenty of caffeine-free fluids. After symptoms have subsided, you should resume your normal diet.

Bananas

• Bananas provide potassium, which is one mineral that controls the body's fluid balance. They're also considered to cause constipation so they'll aid in helping alleviate diarrhea.

Rice

• Boiled rice is a carbohydrate that won't irritate the bowel and, like bananas, is known to cause constipation.

Apples

• Apples are known to have a cleansing effect on the digestive system. Applesauce is recommended while on the BRAT diet.

Toast

• Toast is another low-fiber carbohydrate like rice that doesn't irritate the bowel.

Alternative Foods

• Some alternative BRAT-type diet foods include other bland foods, such as cooked cereals, crackers, pasta, potatoes, clear broth and plain chicken.