Prevention
There's no effective treatment for gastroenteritis, so prevention is key. In addition to avoiding food and water that may be contaminated, thorough and frequent hand washing is your best defense.
Many children can develop mild and temporary lactose intolerance. Try to change diet first after consultation with a paediatrician.
There is no specific diet that is recommended for diarrhea, but children usually tolerate bland foods better. Bulking agents, like starches, fresh fruits, and vegetables help create more solid stool. Fruit juices can loosen stool.
Diarrhea caused by antibiotics may be reduced by giving the child yogurt with live active cultures (look for a statement on the label). If the diarrhea persists, contact your health care provider to discuss changing or stopping the antibiotic. Do not stop antibiotic treatment without checking with your child's doctor.
