BRAT diet’s popularity wanes as experts question its digestive benefits

Once celebrated as a top diet for upset stomachs, the BRAT regimen—bananas, rice, applesauce and toast—has come under scrutiny for its lack of scientific backing. Recent commentary highlights that the American Academy of Pediatrics no longer endorses it for children because it is overly restrictive and low in essential nutrients like protein and calcium. Gastroenterologists point out that while the foods contain modest amounts of soluble fiber and potassium, they do not support gut-cell repair or microbiome balance.

Medical advice now suggests limiting the diet to no more than 24 hours after diarrhea begins and supplementing with clear broths, oatmeal, boiled potatoes, and low-fat crackers. As patients tolerate more food, they can reintroduce easy-digestible proteins and vegetables, while avoiding acidic, fried, spicy, or dairy items and staying hydrated with water, tea or electrolyte drinks.