Small light meals throughout the day help reduce the discomfort of nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. It is important to be careful about dehydration, so plenty of fluids are needed. Select mild flavored foods that are at room temperature or cooler. Avoid the smells and effort of cooking. Stay away from fatty foods, or foods that might give you gas or cramps such as carbonated beverages, beans, cabbage and broccoli.
Some people develop an intolerance for dairy products, so consider using soy or rice milk.
High fiber foods may exacerbate diarrhea, but are helpful with constipation. If diarrhea is the problem, use only cooked vegetables and canned fruit, omitting seeds, skins, garlic, onions, nuts, corn and the cabbage family. If diarrhea is troublesome, your doctor may direct you to eat more foods and beverages with sodium and potassium, along with water to maintain your electrolyte balance. Bananas, peaches and potatoes are good choices, and sports drinks also are designed to replenish these nutrients. Your local Cancer Society can provide this and other materials on cancer care.