Small amounts of ground or finely chopped meats may also be offered if they have already been introduced in your child's diet. The B.R.A.T. diet is a common treatment for diarrhea used with children once they begin eating solid foods. Decrease or avoid fats and sweets until the diarrhea subsides. Accompany these foods with lots of clear fluids for the 24 to 48 hours. Fluid intake is very important because it is easy for a child with diarrhea to become dehydrated.
Dehydration is a serious condition in babies and young children.
Fluids lost need to be replaced. Babies should be given about 2 ounces per hour. These solutions are available at the supermarket or pharmacy and you do not need a prescription. Offer small amounts every few minutes up to eight ounces between bowel movements. Avoid sweetened beverages like soda pop, non-carbonated soft drinks, sports drinks and fruit juices.