Lifestyle and home remedies

Here are some dietary strategies that can help you maintain good nutrition and minimize your symptoms.

• Eat smaller meals. Try eating five or six small meals a day rather than three larger ones.
• Drink most of your fluids between meals. At first, don't drink anything for 30 to 60 minutes before and after meals.
• Drink 6 to 8 cups (1.4 to 1.9 liters) of fluids a day. At first, limit fluid with meals to 1/2 cup (118 milliliters). Increase fluid with meals as you tolerate it.

• Change your diet. Eat more protein — meat, poultry, creamy peanut butter and fish — and complex carbohydrates — oatmeal and other whole-grain foods high in fiber. Limit high-sugar foods, such as candy, table sugar, syrup, sodas and juices.

  The natural sugar in dairy products (lactose) might worsen your symptoms. Try small amounts at first, or eliminate them if you think they're causing problems. You might want to see a registered dietitian for more advice about what to eat.

• Increase fiber intake. Psyllium, guar gum and pectin in food or supplements can delay the absorption of carbohydrates in the small intestine.
• Check with your doctor about drinking alcohol.