Diseases and Conditions

Microscopic colitis

Lifestyle and home remedies

Changes to your diet may help relieve diarrhea that you experience with microscopic colitis. Try to:

  • Drink plenty of fluids. Water is best, but fluids with added sodium and potassium (electrolytes) may help as well. Try drinking broth or watered-down fruit juice. Avoid beverages that are high in sugar or sorbitol or contain alcohol or caffeine, such as coffee, tea and colas, which may aggravate your symptoms.
  • Choose soft, easy-to-digest foods. These include applesauce, bananas, melons and rice. Avoid high-fiber foods such as beans and nuts, and eat only well-cooked vegetables. If you feel as though your symptoms are improving, slowly add high-fiber foods back to your diet.
  • Eat several small meals rather than a few large meals. Spacing meals throughout the day may ease diarrhea.
  • Avoid irritating foods. Stay away from spicy, fatty or fried foods and any other foods that make your symptoms worse.

Related Services