I have had diarrhea on and off for about four weeks now. It's mild and I generally only have one loose stool a day. Last week I finally went to the doctor because I'd had the flu. She said the diarrhea was probably due to the flu, but it had started before I had the flu and has continued even though I don't have the flu any more. She recommended the BRAT diet: bananas, rice, applesauce and toast.

I've been eating like a BRAT for a week. No caffeine, no artificial sweeteners, no dairy, no alcohol. Earlier, I was slipping up -- eating crackers, rice, bananas and broth all day but then having a creamy soup or beans at dinner. For the past four days I've been very strict but have only seen one day of "improvement."

I am eating 20-30 grams of fiber a day.

Is one loose stool a day something to worry about? I don't have abdominal pain or cramping. I've been feeling a bit bloated the past few days, but I attribute this to eating so much bread.

Is there an alternative to the BRAT diet that might help me feel better?