The most important principle of feeding during and after diarrhoea is that patients should not be starved. Not only does the withholding of foods and fluids delay recovery, but it intensifies the harmful effects of acute diarrhoea on nutritional status. If breast feeding has been stopped, it should be resumed during the administration of ORS. If the child is formula fed, the formula can be given in a diluted (1:1) form. Foods, especially those that are energy or potassium-rich, should be offered as soon as the patient's appetite returns.