Nurtritional Management of Acute Diarrhea

Diarrhea is responsible for 20% difference in liner growth and under-nutrition causes 60.7% diarrhea related deaths. Feeding during diarrhea is of utmost importance. Immediate normal feeding of the child is necessary during diarrhea. Breastfeeding protects from diarrhea related morbidity and mortality and hence should be preferred. Milk should be continued during diarrhea. Full strength milk can be regularly used in all cases of diarrhea. Low lactose or lactose free feeds are only needed when diarrhea is associated with severe malnutrition or in treatment failures. Soya based formulae are expensive and have no added benefits. Soya protein may have long term adverse effects. Yogurt can be a low lactose option for cases with lactose intolerance. Locally prepared diets are successful and should be encouraged. Feeding schedule for different ages could be as per Integrated Management of Neonatal and Childhood Illness (IMNCI) guidelines.