During diarrheal illness in an infant, what is the best approach to nutrition?

• A. Return to an age-appropriate and healthy diet early; continue human milk ad lib
• B. Provide only clear liquids
• C. Use diluted formula for longer
• D. Withhold feeding until symptoms resolve

Answer: (A)

During diarrheal illness, the priority is to preserve hydration and nutrition by continuing regular feeding, especially breastfeeding. Breast milk provides fluids, calories, and easily absorbed nutrients, along with immune factors that help protect the gut and support healing. Feeding ad libitum and returning to an age-appropriate diet early helps maintain energy stores, prevent malnutrition, and often shortens the illness. In contrast, restricting feeds to only clear liquids or delaying feeds deprives the infant of essential nutrients and fluids, which can prolong recovery and worsen dehydration. If the infant is not breastfed, continue usual formula and use oral rehydration solutions as needed to restore fluids, and consider zinc supplementation to support recovery.