Give nothing by mouth, including water, until there has been no vomiting for 1 hour (infants) or 2 hours (older children). Then begin offering fluids in frequent, small amounts.

First 8-12 Hours

Under 1 year: Oral electrolyte solution (Pedialyte, etc.)*
½ oz. every ½ hour for 3 times then,
1oz. every ½ hour for 3 times, then increase the amount as tolerated.

Over 1 year: Gatorade, half-strength Sprite or 7-Up, Popsicles
1oz. every ½ hour for 3 times then,
2oz. every ½ hour for 3 times, then increase the amount as tolerated.

Breast-feeding: Nurse every ½ hour for 5 minutes, alternating breasts. Increase feeding time as tolerated. May supplement with an oral electrolyte solution (Pedialyte, etc.)*.

If vomiting recurs, return to previous step in fluid introduction.

Next 12-18 Hours

After 12 hours with no vomiting, formula and solids may be added to the liquid diet. Offer small infrequent feedings at first.

Under 1 year: Formula, rice cereal, bananas, crackers, applesauce.

Over 1 year: Bananas, crackers, applesauce, toast, Jell-o, potatoes, soup.

Breast-feeding: Breast milk plus the above solid foods.

After 48 hours with no vomiting, your child may return to a regular “light” diet, avoiding spicy and high fat foods. If vomiting recurs, then temporarily return to a liquid diet. If necessary, a child may go several days without solid foods without harm. If vomiting persists, contact our office for advice.

*To improve the taste, ¼ teaspoon of pre-sweetened, sugar-free Kool-Aid powder may be added to 8 ounces of an oral electrolyte solution.