Diarrhea in an infant can be a sign of a serious condition, but is more often caused by a simple viral or bacterial infection that will clear up on its own over the course of a few days. Once your doctor has confirmed that no major problems are present, you can typically treat mild to moderate diarrhea at home. To prevent dehydration, an infant with diarrhea should be fed small amounts more frequently than normal.
BRAT Diet
The BRAT diet is a combination of four mild foods that are easy on the digestive tract. Bananas, rice or rice cereal, applesauce and toast make up the BRAT diet. Be sure to use actual applesauce, not apple juice. Apple juice is actually a laxative and could make diarrhea worse, while applesauce has the fiber and pectin from whole apples that firms up an infant's stool. Other foods that can be added to the BRAT diet include plain cooked white potatoes, cooked carrots and pasta.
Fluids and Electrolytes
If your baby has developed even mild dehydration, evidenced by less frequent urination, weight loss and dry eyes and mouth, you'll need to provide electrolytes to keep his body in balance. Your baby's pediatrician can recommend an oral electrolyte solution and advise you as to the frequency and amount you should give to your baby. If your baby normally drinks infant formula, you may be able to make a half-and-half mixture of electrolyte solution and his normal formula. For babies with diarrhea who aren't showing signs of dehydration, keeping them hydrated is essential to preventing this potential complication. Encourage your infant to drink his regular breast milk or formula as often as possible. White grape juice and popsicles can also provide needed fluids for an older baby.
Breast Milk
If you breastfeed your baby, don't stop because of a bout of diarrhea. Breast milk contains natural antibodies that can help your baby fight off an intestinal infection. Breast milk also provides electrolytes in the perfect balance for your infant. Be careful with your own diet as a nursing mother, though, since some substances like caffeine may pass into the milk and irritate your baby's already sensitive digestive tract.
Probiotics
Probiotics are friendly bacteria that populate the digestive tract and help fight off invading microorganisms. Probiotic foods such as yogurt and miso soup carry live cultures of these bacteria. A baby with diarrhea may benefit from ingesting probiotics, particularly yogurt containing the Lactobacillus acidophilus bacteria. Probiotics are also available in supplement form.
