Understanding and Managing
Acute Gastroenteritis (A.G.E.) in Children

Symptoms of A.G.E. in Infants

In younger children and infants, the symptoms of Acute Gastroenteritis (A.G.E.) may not be as easily recognizable. Instead of typical signs like nausea or vomiting, infants may show irritability (fussiness), lack of appetite (anorexia), and increased gas as signs of discomfort. These symptoms are often due to difficulty in digesting food during the illness.

The dietary recommendations for managing A.G.E. vary by age. Here’s a breakdown of what to feed your child at different stages:

• Under Six Months of Age:

  • Day 1: Pedialyte or Ricelyte (frequent small amounts)

  • Day 2: ½ strength or full strength Isomil or Prosobee

  • Day 3: Full strength Isomil or Prosobee

  • Day 4: Retry normal diet, but continue soybean formula for 1–2 weeks.

• Six Months to One Year:

  • Day 1: Pedialyte or Ricelyte (frequent small amounts)

  • Day 2: ½ strength or full strength Isomil or Prosobee

  • Day 3: Full strength Isomil or Prosobee

  • May add: decaffeinated pop, rice, applesauce, bananas, potato, yogurt, and small feedings

  • Full strength soybean formula for 1–2 weeks.

• Over One Year:

  • Day 1: Pedialyte, Ricelyte, Gatorade (frequent small amounts)

  • Day 2: ½ strength or full strength Isomil or Prosobee

  • May add: decaffeinated pop, rice, applesauce, bananas, potato, crackers, pretzels, yogurt

  • Day 3: Lean meat or chicken/egg. Other foods as above.

Foods to Avoid

1. Oats
2. Peas
3. Teas
4. Juice
5. Fresh fruit
6. Fatty foods
7. Large meals

Special Note for Breastfeeding Mothers

Breastfeeding mothers should be aware that while breast milk is typically a healthy choice, it may be difficult for babies to digest during Acute Gastroenteritis (A.G.E.) due to the lactose content. Diarrhea in a breastfed infant may appear green-brown, foul-smelling, and explosive. In such cases, it is recommended to contact the office for advice on diet changes to ensure proper care and comfort for the baby.

Why Not Give Plain Water

Plain water alone should not be given to children with Acute Gastroenteritis (A.G.E.) because it lacks the necessary minerals needed to support hydration and recovery. While water is important for hydration, it does not provide the necessary electrolytes and minerals required to effectively treat the condition. In fact, using water alone could worsen the condition. It’s important to offer fluids such as Pedialyte, Ricelyte, or Gatorade, which help maintain the proper balance of fluids and minerals.