CRAM Diet Food List with PDF Download

The CRAM diet food list is an acronym for Cereal, Rice, Applesauce, and Milk. It is a combination of easy-to-digest foods that help restore energy, manage dehydration, and settle your stomach.

Originally inspired by the well-known BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast). The CRAM diet is better for nutrition. It includes milk and cereal, which makes it more balanced in protein and fat. The BRAT diet is popular now, but has roots in Latin America from prehistoric times.

Choosing the right foods is critical when you have diarrhea, dyspepsia, or gastroenteritis. What you eat can either support your recovery or worsen your symptoms.

You can get help with right CRAM Diet Food List which:

• Rehydrate the body
• Calm the digestive system
• Reduce symptoms like cramps, fatigue, and nausea
• Prevent further complications

And one of the most trusted options during digestive issues is the CRAM diet.

What Is the CRAM Diet Food List?

BRAT Diet Foods for Digestive Relief

The CRAM diet food list is a bland-food regimen designed to alleviate digestive discomfort, particularly diarrhea and upset stomach. The acronym stands for:

• Cereal
• Rice
• Applesauce
• Milk

These foods are low in fiber and fat, making them gentle on the gastrointestinal tract. The CRAM diet includes milk and cereal providing more protein and fat. It can be beneficial during recovery, instead of BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast).

CRAM Diet Food List & How They Help

Let’s break down how each component of the CRAM diet works to aid digestion and recovery:

Cereal and Rice

Benefits of the BRAT Diet for Diarrhea and Stomach Upset

• Rich in fiber, these ingredients help regulate sugar and carb absorption.
• Improve gastric motility and speed up digestion.
• Aid in detoxification and stabilize blood sugar levels.

Applesauce

Use the BRAT diet short-term to ease symptoms and reintroduce nutrition gently.

• Contains pectin, a soluble fiber that soothes the gastrointestinal tract.
• Enhances protein absorption, lowers cholesterol, and supports immunity.

Milk

• Offers vital lipids and proteins that restore strength.
• Though dairy is often misunderstood in diarrhea cases, milk (and especially yogurt) is helpful if nausea is not present.
• Probiotic-rich yogurt can help restore healthy gut bacteria.

Dr. John Snyder, fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, recommends the CRAM diet for its higher fat and protein content compared to BRAT. He also advises pairing it with an electrolyte drink for best results.

What to Eat for Diarrhea Relief?

Consume foods that are easy to digest and help firm up stools when you have diarrhea. The CRAM diet food list focuses on:

• Cereal: Opt for low-sugar, refined cereals like Cream of Wheat or Rice Krispies.
• Rice: Plain white rice is ideal; avoid adding butter or spices.
• Applesauce: Unsweetened applesauce provides pectin, which can help solidify stools.
• Milk: Low-fat or lactose-free milk can offer essential nutrients without irritating the stomach.

These foods are binding and can help reduce the frequency of bowel movements.

What Foods Stop Diarrhea?

In addition to the CRAM diet food list, other foods can aid in stopping diarrhea:

• Bananas: Rich in potassium and easy to digest.
• Toast: Plain white bread toast can help add bulk to stools.
• Boiled Potatoes: Without the skin, they are bland and starchy.
• Plain Crackers: Such as saltines, are low in fiber and fat.

Don’t forget to stay hydrated with clear fluids like water, broth, or electrolyte solutions.

What Is a Bland Diet Food List?

A bland diet consists of foods that are soft, not spicy, and low in dietary fiber. Bland diet recommends to those individuals who have gastrointestinal issues. Key characteristics include:

• Low-Fiber Foods: White rice, refined cereals, and white bread.
• Lean Proteins: Skinless chicken or turkey.
• Cooked Vegetables: Well-cooked carrots or green beans.
• Avoidance of Spices and Fatty Foods: To prevent irritation.

The goal is to minimize digestive workload and irritation.

See Also: What is CRAM?

Foods to Eat When You Have Diarrhea

Incorporate the following into your diet:

• White Rice
• Applesauce
• Bananas
• Plain Toast
• Boiled Potatoes
• Plain Crackers
• Low-Fat Yogurt: Contains probiotics that may help restore gut flora.

These foods are gentle on the stomach and can help in recovery.

See Also: Low Fat Bland Diet

Food for Upset Stomach

When dealing with an upset stomach, consider:

• Ginger Tea: Can help reduce nausea.
• Clear Broths: Provide hydration and electrolytes.
• Plain Rice or Noodles: Easy to digest.
• Steamed Vegetables: Like carrots or zucchini.

Avoid fatty, spicy, or acidic foods that can exacerbate symptoms.

How the CRAM Diet Aids Diarrhea Recovery

Start with the BRAT diet if your symptoms are intense. Once you feel slightly better, transition to CRAM for added nutritional support.

Unlike BRAT, which lacks essential nutrients, CRAM provides:

• More protein and healthy fats
• Sustained energy levels
• Faster recovery with less fatigue and lethargy

However, avoid high-sugar foods like sweetened cereals, apple juice concentrates, or soda as they can worsen symptoms.

Duration and Safety of the CRAM Diet

Keep in mind, the CRAM diet is not a long-term solution. It’s best used for 24 to 48 hours only. Prolonged use may lead to:

• Nutritional deficiencies
• Hunger and fatigue
• Rapid weight regain once you resume normal eating

Disclaimer and Warnings

• The CRAM diet is not balanced enough for extended periods.
• It lacks essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins required for long-term health.
• If your symptoms last longer than a couple of days, consult a physician.
• Signs like dry mouth, low urine output, fatigue, or high heart rate could indicate serious dehydration.

What’s the Solution?

Pair the CRAM diet with Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT) to replenish lost fluids:

• Drink broths, unsweetened smoothies, or caffeine-free beverages.
• Include electrolyte-replacement drinks to avoid dehydration.
• Continue with CRAM only until your stomach settles — not more than 2 days.

CRAM Diet Food Plan Alternatives

BRAT Diet

• Banana, Rice, Applesauce, Toast
• Bland and low-fiber but lacks protein and fat.

BRATT Diet

• Adds Tea to the BRAT combo.
• Tea, especially ginger or green tea, supports hydration and digestion.

BRATTY Diet

• Includes Yogurt — a source of probiotics, protein, and calcium.
• Choose unsweetened yogurt to reduce digestive stress.

Related Resource

For more detailed information on the CRAM diet, visit our previous article: https://www.dietsmealplan.com/digestive-health/cram-diet/

Summary

In summary, the CRAM diet is a short-term way to help with diarrhea, gastroenteritis, and upset stomach. Use it responsibly for up to 48 hours, and always focus on hydration and rest.

Before starting any elimination or restrictive diet, know what is causing your stomach problems. This could be an infection, indigestion, or food sensitivity. For long-term health or weight management, consult a qualified dietitian to build a sustainable and safe meal plan.

The CRAM diet food list helps to manage diarrhea and upset stomach by focusing on bland, easy-to-digest foods. Using cereals, rice, applesauce, and milk can provide necessary nutrients while allowing the digestive system to recover. Never forget to stay hydrated and consult with a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice.

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See Also:

Apple Diet for 5 and 7 days

BRAT Diet Alternatives

Homemade Refined Sugar Free Applesauce Recipe

What is BRAT Diet? A complete guide to relieved pain

7-day low fat BLAND diet