Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

The BRAT diet is primarily used to help with which of the following conditions?

1. Nausea and vomiting

2. Diabetes management

3. Cardiovascular health

4. Weight gain

The correct answer is: Nausea and vomiting

The BRAT diet, which stands for Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast, is primarily used to manage gastrointestinal issues, particularly those related to nausea and vomiting. This bland diet is designed to be easy on the stomach and assists in binding up loose stools, making it beneficial following episodes of diarrhea or after experiencing nausea. The components of the BRAT diet are gentle on the digestive system and provide a source of carbohydrates, which can help to maintain energy levels during recovery. Additionally, bananas and applesauce provide some essential nutrients, while toast is low in fiber, making it less likely to irritate the stomach lining. In contrast, the other options do not relate to the BRAT diet's intended use. Diabetes management requires a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, which is not provided by the BRAT diet. Cardiovascular health typically involves a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, rather than the limited selection found in the BRAT diet. Weight gain strategies focus on increasing caloric intake with nutrient-dense foods, which is not addressed by this diet that emphasizes blandness and simplicity. Thus, the use of the BRAT diet is specifically geared towards alleviating symptoms associated with gastrointestinal distress rather than