When a child has diarrhoea, stop giving food and milk so the stomach can rest.

fact_checkWhat experts say

• infoDiarrhoea drains water and salts from the body. The biggest danger is dehydration.1
• infoA child with diarrhoea should keep breastfeeding and keep eating usual foods. Breast milk and nutrient-rich food help break the cycle of diarrhoea and malnutrition.12
• infoStopping solid food for 24 hours does not help diarrhoea.2
• infoORS replaces lost water and salts, and zinc supplements can shorten diarrhoea.1
• infoDiarrhoea is a major cause of malnutrition. Skipping food can make a child weaker and more prone to future illness.1

lightbulbWhy people believe it

It is natural to think a sick stomach needs rest, and many families have been told to stop food for a while. But in diarrhoea the body needs fluids and food to recover.

checklistWhat to do

• check_circleKeep giving breast milk and usual foods during diarrhoea.12
• check_circleGive ORS to replace water and salts.12
• check_circleAsk a health worker about zinc supplements.1
• check_circleGet medical help if diarrhoea lasts long, there is blood in stool, or the child shows signs of dehydration.1

menu_bookSources

1. 1Diarrhoeawho.intopen_in_new
2. 22017 Infectious Diseases Society of America Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Infectious Diarrheanih.govopen_in_new

Updated 26 Oct 2026