How do you manage diarrhea?

Often, you can decrease diarrhea by eating small, frequent meals and skipping some of the following foods:

• Milk and dairy products
• Spicy foods
• Alcohol
• Caffeine-containing foods and drinks (coffee, strong tea, colas, chocolate)
• Some fruit juices (ask your doctor which to avoid)
• Gas-forming foods and drinks (beans, lentils, carbonated drinks)
• High-fiber foods (nuts, whole grains, raw fruits and vegetables)
• High-fat foods (chips, fried foods, luncheon meats)

For mild diarrhea, you may want to try the "BRAT" diet. This stands for Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast. More severe diarrhea may require help from your physician. Always talk to your health care team if you find that simple steps (like changing your diet) are not helping.

Read more tips to manage diarrhea.