Understanding the Purpose of Phase 2
Phase 1 of the BRAT diet, consisting of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, is highly restrictive by design. The primary goal is to rest the digestive system and help firm up stools after a bout of diarrhea or vomiting. However, staying on such a limited diet for too long can lead to a deficiency in key nutrients like protein and fat. This is where phase 2 comes in. It's the critical bridge that allows you to expand your diet incrementally, testing your tolerance for new foods while continuing to prioritize foods that are easy on the stomach. The transition process is just as important as the initial diet itself, so proceeding slowly and paying close attention to your body's signals is key. The exact timing for moving from phase 1 to phase 2 depends on your individual recovery speed, but generally, it occurs after your initial symptoms have significantly subsided.
How to Know You're Ready for Phase 2
Transitioning to phase 2 should not be rushed. You are ready when you can successfully and consistently eat the phase 1 foods without experiencing further gastrointestinal upset. Signs that you are ready include:
- Your diarrhea has stopped or is significantly reduced.
- You are no longer experiencing nausea or vomiting.
- You feel more energetic and have a better appetite.
- You can easily tolerate small portions of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast.
Expanding Your Menu: Acceptable Foods in Phase 2
As you begin phase 2, you can start adding a variety of new foods, focusing on those that are still bland, low in fat, and easy to digest. Here are some options to introduce gradually:
- Lean Proteins: Begin with skinless, grilled, roasted, or baked chicken or turkey. Scrambled, hard-boiled, or poached eggs are also good choices. Tofu is another suitable, bland protein source.
- Cooked Vegetables: Stick to well-cooked, skinless vegetables. Good options include baked or mashed white or sweet potatoes, green beans, carrots, and squash. Canned vegetables are often a safe bet as well.
- Additional Breads and Grains: Expand your options beyond just white toast. Introduce crackers (saltine or rice), white pasta and noodles, couscous, and cereals with less than 3 grams of fiber, like Rice Krispies or Corn Flakes. Plain, non-steel-cut oatmeal is also a great addition.
- Expanded Fruits: In addition to applesauce and bananas, you can try soft, canned fruits and limited amounts of melon, like cantaloupe.
- Bland Dairy (if tolerated): For some, introducing dairy can be a challenge. Start with small amounts of plain yogurt or dairy alternatives like almond, rice, or soy milk. Monitor for any adverse reactions.
What to Still Avoid in Phase 2
Just as important as adding new foods is knowing which ones to continue avoiding. These include:
- Spicy and heavily seasoned foods.
- High-fat, fried, or greasy foods.
- Raw vegetables and those with tough skins or seeds.
- Citrus fruits and juices, as their acidity can be irritating.
- Alcohol and caffeinated beverages, which can dehydrate you.
- Dairy products, especially those high in fat, if you experienced intolerance in Phase 1.
- Legumes, seeds, nuts, and whole grains, which are high in insoluble fiber.
Comparison Table: BRAT Phase 2 vs. Normal Diet
| Food Category | BRAT Diet Phase 2 (Tolerated) | Normal Diet (Avoid in Phase 2) |
|---|---|---|
| Grains | White rice, white toast, saltine crackers, plain oatmeal | Whole-grain bread, high-fiber cereals, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta |
| Proteins | Skinless baked chicken, eggs, baked fish, tofu | Spicy sausage, fried chicken, heavy stews, fatty meats |
| Vegetables | Cooked carrots, mashed potatoes, green beans | Raw salads, broccoli, cauliflower, corn on the cob |
| Fruits | Bananas, applesauce, canned soft fruit, melon | Oranges, berries, prunes, grapes |
| Dairy | Plain yogurt, almond milk, rice milk | Hard cheese, heavy cream, ice cream, high-fat dairy |
A Sample BRAT Diet Phase 2 Day
- Breakfast: A bowl of plain, cooked oatmeal (not steel-cut) with a sliced banana and a small amount of rice milk.
- Mid-morning Snack: Several saltine crackers with a tablespoon of creamy peanut butter (if tolerated).
- Lunch: Baked skinless chicken breast with mashed potatoes and well-cooked green beans.
- Afternoon Snack: A cup of applesauce.
- Dinner: Baked tilapia with a side of white rice and cooked carrots.
- Evening Snack: A piece of plain white toast.
Conclusion
The BRAT diet phase 2 is a crucial step in the recovery process from stomach illness, but it is not a long-term solution. By gradually reintroducing bland, low-fiber foods, you allow your digestive system to strengthen and heal without overwhelming it. Remember to listen to your body, proceed slowly, and always prioritize hydration. As your tolerance improves, you can continue expanding your diet, eventually returning to a normal, balanced eating pattern. If you have any concerns or prolonged symptoms, it is always best to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice on your recovery. A healthy and patient approach to this transition will ensure a smoother, more complete recovery.
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Patient Education on BRATT Diet
