The most appropriate initial management of a toddler with persistent post-infectious diarrhea is to

The most appropriate initial management of a toddler with persistent post-infectious diarrhea is to

• A. Start clear liquid diet
• B. Switch to lactose-free diet
• C. Continue with a regular diet
• D. Start a high fat, low carbohydrate diet

Answer: (B)

After gastroenteritis, many toddlers develop a temporary lactase deficiency, so lactose remains poorly digested. Undigested lactose in the gut draws water and worsens diarrhea, making symptoms persist. Switching to a lactose-free diet directly addresses this issue, helping stool become more formed and reducing diarrhea while the gut heals. This approach supports nutrition with appropriate substitutes (lactose-free dairy or dairy alternatives) and is typically paired with good oral hydration. Once symptoms resolve, lactose can be gradually reintroduced to reassess tolerance. The other options don’t target the common post-infectious lactose intolerance and may not provide adequate calories or could worsen symptoms.

After gastroenteritis, many toddlers develop a temporary lactase deficiency, so lactose remains poorly digested. Undigested lactose in the gut draws water and worsens diarrhea, making symptoms persist. Switching to a lactose-free diet directly addresses this issue, helping stool become more formed and reducing diarrhea while the gut heals. This approach supports nutrition with appropriate substitutes (lactose-free dairy or dairy alternatives) and is typically paired with good oral hydration. Once symptoms resolve, lactose can be gradually reintroduced to reassess tolerance. The other options don’t target the common post-infectious lactose intolerance and may not provide adequate calories or could worsen symptoms.