Health Tip: Ease Cramps From Irritable Bowel

Modifying what and how you eat won't cure irritable bowel disease, but it can help reduce flares.

The Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America offers these suggestions:

• Eat small snacks or meals every three-to-four hours, instead of eating three large meals each day.
• Cut back on fried, greasy or high-fat foods, which can trigger gas and diarrhea.
• If you are lactose-intolerant, avoid dairy products.
• Limit foods that are high in fiber, including popcorn, some Chinese vegetables, corn, nuts and seeds.
• If you take antidiarrheal or antispasmodic medication, take them about 20 minutes before eating a meal.