Diarrhea/Constipation

If you experience diarrhea, eat bland foods, drink mild clear liquids at room temperature and restore lost potassium and sodium with soup, bananas and low-sugar sports drinks, says registered dietitian Danielle Penick, MS, RD. “Strangely,” she writes, “laying down for 30 minutes after a meal can also alleviate symptoms.” For constipation, in addition to eating more fiber, drinking plenty of fluids and getting regular exercise, try sipping warm beverages after a meal. For added effectiveness, try warm prune juice; about 45 seconds in the microwave does the trick, says Penick.