One well-known dietary recommendation for recovering from gastroenteritis is the BRAT diet. This represents banana (B), rice (R), applesauce (A) and toast (T). These bland foods are gentle on the gut, which is important during recovery from gastroenteritis.
The popularity of the BRAT diet has declined in recent years due to a lack of clinical trial evidence. However, research shows that individual ingredients in your diet may help your gastrointestinal tract heal.
Here are the reasons why eating bananas during gastroenteritis may be good for you:
- Bananas are a rich source of potassium, a mineral that helps replenish electrolytes that are lost through regular loss. If you eat a banana, you don't have to take oral rehydration solutions.
- Bananas contain pectin, a gel-forming starch that helps treat diarrhea. Green banana pulp and flour have been shown to reduce diarrhea in children. The pectin content absorbs excess fluid in the intestines, making stools harder and reducing the amount and duration of diarrhea.
- Bananas are also rich in fiber, which helps increase stool volume and improve bowel movements.
- Bananas are also a low-residue food that can help relieve weakness and dehydration.
You can eat it raw as a fruit or add it to meals. Add 1-2 bananas twice a day to relieve stomach problems.
