The B.R.A.T. diet is a mnemonic acronym for bananas, rice, applesauce and toast. These specific foods are binding, and their purpose is to prevent or treat diarrhea, vomiting and other gastrointestinal problems. Whereas some physicians hold to adhering strictly to the BRAT diet, there are essentially two variations of the BRAT diet, called the BRATY and the BRATT that can sometimes be more beneficial in soothing diarrhea and vomiting.
Fluids First
When you are suffering the worst of G.I. symptoms, food and drinks are not possible. In the case of severe vomiting and diarrhea, you will need to wait until the symptoms subside or, after prolonged symptoms, see a doctor. Extreme thirst often develops when dehydrated. When you can finally try drinking something, slowly and carefully re-hydrate your body, taking small sips of clear sodas, Pedialyte or ginger ale. You can also try frozen electrolyte Popsicles. These fluids will gently restore some of your body's depleted electrolyte minerals like potassium, magnesium, chloride, sodium and calcium.
Introducing the BRAT Diet
When you think you are finally able to eat something, the original BRAT diet foods can soothe the stomach and bowels, giving them a chance to recover. The BRAT plan is very bland. It contains no dairy or oils. It is low in fiber and contains no sugars. The rice and toast are very dry; the applesauce and banana are eaten plain. The apples must not be eaten raw or in any form other than cooked, pureed applesauce.
BRATY Diet Variation
One variation of the BRAT diet is the BRATY diet. The added "Y" stands for plain, sugar-free, active probiotic cultured yogurt. The good bacteria in yogurt are beneficial in killing the harmful bacteria and viruses in the stomach and G.I. tract. Unfortunately, some patients cannot tolerate dairy products during intestinal distress---not even yogurt. For this reason, some physicians recommend that patients try taking probiotic supplements instead.
The BRATT Diet Variation
A second variation of the BRAT diet is the BRATT plan. The added "T" stands for tea. Note that in this diet there is no yogurt. Tea is added because the tannic acids in tea are anti-diarrheal. Ginger root, blueberry leaf, and blackberry leaf teas or infusions can also be beneficial in controlling diarrhea.
Occasional BRAT Exceptions
Bananas are recommended because they contain pectin, as well as much-needed potassium and magnesium. Pectin binds bile acids and cholesterol in the intestines and helps to tighten the bowels. Only after diarrhea is under control do some doctors suggest that patients try eating blueberries, since they too are rich in pectin, magnesium and potassium. If you are on the BRAT diet, eat blueberries only with your physician's permission and recommendation.
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