Home > Support & Survivorship > Patient and Family Support Services Program > Making Every Bite Count > Managing Eating Problems Topic List

Diarrhea

• Drink plenty of mild, clear liquids throughout the day. Liquids at room temperature are better tolerated.
• Eat small, frequent meals and snacks throughout the day.
• Avoid greasy, fried, spicy, or very sweet foods.
• Limit milk and milk products to no more than 2 cups a day.
• Avoid drinks and foods that cause gas, such as carbonated drinks, gas-forming vegetables, and chewing gum. (You may drink carbonated beverages if you leave them open for at least 10 minutes before drinking.)
• Drink and eat high-sodium foods, such as broths, sports drinks, crackers, and pretzels.
• Drink and eat high-potassium foods, such as fruit juices and nectars, sports drinks, potatoes without the skin, and bananas.
• Eat foods high in pectin, such as applesauce and bananas.
• Call your doctor if diarrhea continues or your stools have an unusual odor or color.
• Drink at least 1 cup of liquid after each loose bowel movement.
• Limit use of sugar-free gums and candies made with sorbitol.

See Also:
Nutrition During Treatment Information Guide

Adjust text size

University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center
1500 East Medical Center Drive
Ann Arbor, MI 48109

© 2008 Regents of the University of Michigan / Developed & maintained by: Public Relations & Marketing Communications. Contact Us or UMHS. The information presented is not a tool for self diagnosis or a substitute for professional care.