Charli XCX has taken social media by storm this summer with her ‘Brat’ trend — sparked by the release of her sixth studio album.
Defined by party animal antics, it encourages women to accept their imperfections, reject being held to certain standards and instead embrace the chaos.
Earlier this month, Deutsche Bank even advertised it was ‘looking for a brat in finance’ — a trader who wasn’t afraid to take risks.
And MailOnline can reveal a ‘BRAT’ diet — which has, in fact, been around for more than a century — has long been backed by health professionals.
The diet is specifically designed for those unlucky enough to experience diarrhoea and other stomach issues.
In recognition of brat’s cultural significance, the 31-year-old singer (pictured) released baby t-shirts emblazoned with the word ‘brat’ as official merchandise
The ‘BRAT’ diet — which has, in fact, been around for more than a century — has long been backed by health professionals. The diet is specifically designed for those unlucky enough to experience diarrhoea and other stomach issues
It comprises bananas, rice, apple sauce and toast — four foods that are easy to prepare and widely available.
They are thought to help calm the digestive tract and reduce symptoms of stomach upset, aiding recovery.
Since the 1920s it has been widely recommended for both children and adults, along with pregnant women experiencing issues like morning sickness.
Besides being a soft and relatively bland food that’s easy on the stomach, bananas contain pectin, a starch that can make stool firmer.
Bananas also contain potassium, a key electrolyte that our bodies need, but often lose while experiencing vomiting and diarrhea.
White rice and toast, meanwhile, were recommended since they are low-fiber foods that are also easy to digest.
Apple sauce is generally considered easier to digest than a whole piece of fruit, while still containing soluble fiber and pectin, as well as some nutrients.
However, experts told MailOnline while the diet could be ‘effective’, Brits shouldn’t stay on such a limited food plan ‘long term’ or for more than 48 hours.
Registered nutritionist and author Rob Hobson said prolonged BRAT dieting may lead to malnutrition and low energy because it contains ‘too few calories and not enough vital nutrients’.
He added: ‘Make sure you’re really well hydrated.
‘If you’re bloated you could cut out cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage and cauliflower, as they are high in sulphur and cause gas.
‘It’s definitely not a weight loss diet. There are much more sensible ways to lose weight.’
While it’s also a ‘nice plain diet’ which may help a hangover, ‘I wouldn’t recommend it as the perfect hangover cure’, he said. ‘Stick to something light’.
The NHS now recommends a bland diet as a remedy for digestive issues.
Defined by party animal antics, ‘Brat’ encourages women to accept their imperfections, reject being held to certain standards and instead embrace the chaos. Earlier this month, Deutsche Bank even advertised it was ‘looking for a brat in finance’
Foods should be cooked rather than eaten raw as this makes them easier to digest, the health service advises.
It also encourages foods that are easier to break down and digest, including eggs, broth, lean meats such as tofu or white fish and steamed or boiled vegetables like carrots, green beans or potatoes.
Porridge, soft fruits including avocados and melons or creamy peanut butter are among other recommendations.
By comparison, experts often advise avoiding spicy, fried or greasy foods, alcohol, caffeine and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale.
Health professionals have long advised Brits consult with a doctor if diarrhea doesn’t improve within one to two days or is accompanied by other symptoms.
These could include a high fever, severe stomach pain, black or bloody stools or excessive thirst, which may be a sign of dehydration.
