Diet and feeding during gastroenteritis

For all patients with gastroenteritis, the aim is to return to an age-appropriate diet as soon as possible after replacing lost fluids (see Rehydration for acute gastroenteritis in adults and Rehydration for acute gastroenteritis in children).

Breastfeeding of infants should continue even during oral rehydration. Full-strength infant formula and other milks are usually well tolerated—dilution of feeds is not recommended. Fortified feeds should be temporarily stoppedThe Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne (RCH), December 2020 . Once acute gastroenteritis has resolved, fortified feeds can be restarted—gradual re-introduction may be necessary.

No specific dietary restriction is necessary for gastroenteritis; however, foods with high fat content may be less well toleratedLo Vecchio, 2016. Excessive intake of fluids containing large amounts of sugar (eg soft drinks, sports and energy drinks, cordials, fruit juice) should be avoided as they may worsen or prolong diarrhoea; if consumed, these drinks should be diluted to reduce the osmotic load.