Diet for Graft-Versus-Host-Disease (GVHD)

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a condition that occurs when the patient’s cells attack donor cells after a stem cell (bone marrow) transplant. GVHD can affect the gastrointestinal tract (gut) and cause abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, and diarrhea.

The medical team may ask your child to follow a special GVHD diet. A GVHD diet includes bland foods that are easy for the body to digest. This allows the gut time to heal.

General diet tips for GVHD

Your medical team will give you a diet plan for your child’s specific needs. It is important to follow the plan, and do not add foods unless instructed.

General nutrition guidelines include:

• Feed your child smaller meals more often. Keeping the stomach and gut from becoming too full helps the food to digest easier. This keeps the gut from working too hard.
• Your child should avoid drinking liquids with meals. Drinking liquids with meals sometimes causes the stomach to fill quickly. It is better to save liquids for between meals.
• If your child’s symptoms get worse or come back after getting better, tell your care team right away.
• Encourage your child to eat and drink slowly and chew food well.
• Avoid high-fat and high-fiber foods. They are harder to digest.

Foods to avoid on a diet for GVHD

Some foods may make stomach upset and diarrhea worse. Your child’s diet needs may be different. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

Foods to avoid include:

• Dairy products including milk, yogurt, and cheese containing lactose or sweeteners
• Fried foods
• Caffeine including coffee and tea
• Raw fruits and vegetables
• Citrus fruits and juices
• Full-strength juices
• Sodas or carbonated beverages (except diluted ginger ale and Sprite® Zero)
• Spicy, sour, or pickled foods
• Sugary foods and artificial sweeteners (sugar free candy or gum)
• Whole grains, popcorn
• Legumes including chickpeas, lentils, edamame, and black beans

If your child’s symptoms get worse or return after getting better, tell the medical team right away.