The BRAT diet is a relatively bland diet that can be ingested if extreme nausea, morning sickness or diarrhea is present in pregnant women. The name is an acronym that stands for "Bananas, Rice, Applesauce and Toast," all easily digestible foods that leave low amounts of residue in the digestive system and help the bowel and digestive tract to recover from the trauma of upset and regurgitation. In addition, the loss of essential nutrients through watery stools and vomit can lead to dehydration and malnutrition if not treated. If the BRAT diet does not enable the woman to keep down food and fluids, a doctor should be contacted immediately.
BRAT Diet
Pregnant women are prone to digestive upset, also known as "morning sickness." In fact, up to 84 percent of women experience the condition around the world. Most cases of morning sickness seem to stem from the changing amounts of hormones in the system as the fetus goes through rapid growth stages. Another theory proposed by researchers at Colorado University states that pregnant women may be more prone to nausea and vomiting because it is an evolutionary response to avoiding foods that may harm the fetus in such a fragile state. The BRAT diet seems to mitigate both theories of morning sickness.
Protocol
In order to begin the BRAT diet, you should wait for around six hours after the vomiting or diarrhea has stopped before ingesting anything. At this point, begin to add clear liquids like apple juice and tea. It is important to establish a rehydration regimen before worrying too much about solid food. Usually on day two is when you can start to add the BRAT foods. You can also eat some other bland foods like crackers and plain cooked pasta. If the food does not stay down, go back to drinking clear liquids and contact your OBGYN.
Transition
After you have kept the BRAT diet for around 24 hours, begin to introduce other items back into the diet. Some common transition foods include cooked vegetables and eggs, sherbet and plain chicken or turkey. Continue to rehydrate aggressively with clear juices.
Foods to Avoid
During and for a time after transition, it is best to avoid dairy products and heavy meats, like pork and veal. Spicy foods may also cause serious digestive upset. During this time, try to limit your physical exertion and concentrate on recuperating. Consult with your physician if anything seems out of the ordinary.
