If you find yourself in a group situation where there's absolutely nothing you can eat, then at least drink! Having a glass or cup in your hand can make you feel less self-conscious when everyone around you is chowing down.

Pay attention to how sugary foods (which include carbohydrates like pasta) make you feel. Bacteria can feed off sugar and produce a lot of excess gas, which can contribute to bloating and pain.

When you first get diagnosed, it's normal to feel a little freaked about what you can and can't eat. Keep in mind that learning how to eat right for your disease doesn't happen overnight. It takes time, along with trial and error. Be patient.

If you have no appetite, try eating small, frequent meals instead of a few big ones each day. You might also talk to your doctor or registered dietitian about liquid nutritional supplements or recipes for homemade shakes and smoothies.

If it's depressing to think in terms of giving up certain foods "forever," why think so far ahead? Instead, start short-term. Try giving your diet two weeks to see how you feel without these foods, then go from there.

If you're bumming about giving up your favorite foods, try to find the next best thing...or create it yourself! Check out these satisfying switches: Instead of: Popcorn Nuts Corn chips Pasta Hot dogs Try: Rice puffs with melted butter or Pirate's Booty Almond butter, cashew butter Toasted flour tortillas Spaghetti squash Natural or veggie hot dogs without nitrates

You may not want to try new foods -- or "re-try" old ones after a flare-up -- if you're at a party, a restaurant, or someone's house. Do it at home where your comfort zone (and bathroom) are nearby.

If you're having trouble getting what you need from food alone, ask your doctor or registered dietitian about commercial liquid supplements that can help deliver those extra calories. Look for "high calorie" or "plus" versions, and try to choose those that offer plenty of vitamins and minerals, too.

Don't be afraid to BYO. Tote rice puffs to the movies. Pack crackers in your knapsack. Brown-bag your lunch to a day-long outing. As hard as it can be sometimes, try not to pay attention to what other people may think -- you need to eat, and you need to eat right. If anybody gives you a hard time about "outside food" not being allowed somewhere, explain that you're on a special diet.

Work with your parents, doctor, and dietitian to find substitutions for foods you have to go without.