Diet Modifications for Nausea and Vomiting

General Guidelines for Minimizing Nausea

• Smaller portions of foods that are low in fat seem to work best. These foods are easier to digest and move through the stomach faster. If you are eating smaller portions of low-fat foods, be sure to eat more often to meet your calorie and protein needs.
• Eat salty foods and avoid overly sweet ones, especially if you have been vomiting.
• If there are specific times when you know you are going to be nauseated or vomiting, do not eat foods that you really like. You may get turned off from these favorite foods by associating them with the nausea and vomiting.
• Clear, cool beverages are recommended. Take whatever you feel you can tolerate. Examples include clear soups, flavored gelatin, carbonated beverages, popsicles and ice cubes made of frozen drinks. (Note: when drinking with a straw, sip slowly to avoid swallowing air that can cause gas.)
• Sometimes the smell of foods cooking, especially greasy foods, can cause feeling of nausea. If you have problems with this, cold foods such as dairy products, sandwiches and fruits may help.

Minimizing Nausea When Eating

• Avoid liquids at mealtimes. Take them 30 to 60 minutes before and after eating.
• Do not lie down flat for at least two hours after eating.
• If the smell of food makes you nauseated, let someone else do the cooking or use prepared food from the freezer.
• Do not consume food in a room filled with cooking odors or in a warm, stuffy room.
• Eat meals slowly.

If nausea and vomiting continue to be a problem, talk with your doctor. If medication is prescribed, take it as directed.

Be aware that large amounts of vitamins, minerals and other supplements – such as herbal remedies, lecithin and algae – may cause additional nausea and vomiting; therefore, their use should be discussed with your doctor.

UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.

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Coping With Common Discomforts of Pregnancy

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Nutrition Tips For Controlling Diarrhea

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Nutrition Tips for Patients Receiving Head and Neck Radiation Therapy

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Nutrition and Coping with Cancer Symptoms

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Nine Best Foods To Help Soothe Your Nausea- HealthifyMe

Nausea is quite an uncomfortable feeling that may strike with or without any warning. So it’s always better to have some information that can keep us prepared for such occurrences. Unfortunately, almost 50% of adults experience nausea at some point. Interestingly, the word nausea originated from sea sickness- ‘Naus’ means ship. Although eating during nausea can be quite challenging, some foods reduce the severity and after-effects. They also help control nausea, which we will discuss in detail below.

Table of Contents

What Causes Nausea?

Before we go into the remedies to treat nausea and the foods that help reduce it, let us first go through the primary causes. Some prevalent causes of feeling nauseous are:

1. Viruses

Nausea is one of the symptoms of viral gastroenteritis, meaning viruses cause it. The most common virus are rotavirus, adenovirus and norovirus. The infected area includes the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. Gastroenteritis caused by a virus is relatively prevalent. However, it generally does not last for long and does not necessitate too much medical intervention. The most severe risk is dehydration due to fluid loss through diarrhoea and vomiting.

2. Food Poisoning

Food poisoning and contaminated food cause gastroenteritis. The contaminated food causes infection in the body. The most prevalent causes of food poisoning are infectious microbes, such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites or the toxins that they release. In addition, contagious organisms or toxins can contaminate the food they secrete during processing or manufacture. It can also result from improperly cooked food at home.

Gastroenteritis is an inflammatory disorder that affects the stomach, intestines and gastrointestinal lining. It is a common cause of nausea. Although it usually gets better without medicines, it might be more severe in some instances.

3. Cancer Treatment

Cancer treatment can cause nausea and vomiting. These are its significant side effects, affecting the majority of chemotherapy patients. Unfortunately, nausea and vomiting are common side effects of radiation therapy too. Side effects, including nausea and vomiting, need to be minimised so that treatment can continue uninterrupted and the patients are relatively at ease.  

After undergoing several rounds of treatment, nausea and vomiting can develop even before a treatment session. It is known as anticipatory nausea and vomiting. The trigger can be by odours present in the treatment room. Anticipatory nausea and vomiting are more likely to occur during chemotherapy sessions.

4. Motion Sickness

Motion sickness affects people who get carsick, seasick, or airsick. Cold sweats, nausea, and vomiting are a few symptoms. Motion sickness is more common in women and children, although it can affect everyone. People can take precautions to avoid getting sick when travelling.

Motion-sensing regions of your body, such as your eyes, inner ears, muscles, and joints, send messages to your brain. But unfortunately, these organs of the body transmit conflicting signals to the brain. As a result, the brain stays clueless about the state of the body, i.e., if it’s stationary or moving. Therefore, we feel nauseous and sick because of our brain’s perplexed reaction.

5. Pregnancy

The abrupt surge in hormones in your body is one of the causes of pregnancy nausea. It’s generally mild nausea and gets better halfway through pregnancy. However, hyperemesis gravidarum is a severe morning sickness form that affects certain pregnant women. It occurs due to extreme nausea and vomiting, causing dehydration or reducing more than 5% of total pregnant body weight.

Some other factors such as infections, surgery, gut diseases, medications of hormone disorders, and food allergies and intolerances can cause nausea. 

Nine Foods that Soothe Nausea

Several food items help control this nausea and provide instant relief. In addition, these foods bring several health benefits.

Ginger

Traditional folk medicine uses ginger to treat various gut diseases. Ginger’s medical benefits come from gingerol. It is the primary bioactive element and provides ginger with a strong flavour. Dried ginger has a higher concentration of Shogaols. Shogaols are compounds that give ginger its antioxidant properties. Raw ginger, on the other hand, contains more gingerols. 

As per studies, ginger and its components promote active digestion and expedite the emptying of the stomach. In addition, ginger helps to alleviate nausea. Furthermore, the root contains anti-inflammatory qualities that help with digestion and hormone secretion that regulate blood pressure. Therefore, it further supports the body to relax and feel less nauseated.

Although there is insufficient scientific evidence, approximately 0,5-1.5 grams of ginger is sufficient to alleviate the nauseous feeling. 

Clear Beverages and Water

Nausea is also a symptom of dehydration. The body loses ample water during nausea and vomiting. So it becomes essential to keep the body hydrated. Excessive acidity in the stomach can induce nausea in people. Drinking water dilutes the acidic state of the stomach and soothes and eases nausea. Water is often the best source of hydration. However, you can also consider other beverages like ORS, coconut water, chaas or buttermilk. 

You must also avoid extremely sweet drinks since they exacerbate the nauseous feeling. Sipping at intervals is better than drinking all at once.

Protein-Rich Foods

Proteins help your body create enzymes that aid digestion. Digestive disorders are one of the significant reasons for nausea. As per research, eating more proteins than carbohydrates may help prevent nausea. Protein induces the release of gastrin secretion. It improves the digestive process of the body and eases nausea. 

Nuts are one of the best sources of proteins. Therefore, they can counter nausea. However, an excess of protein may also make you feel too full and worsen nausea. In addition, people with an allergy to nuts must steer clear of this.  

Cold Foods

A strong odour can trigger nausea. Some of us highly sensitive to smell can get nauseated because of it. Many food items contain a strong scent that induces the brain to send signals to the body and makes it feel nauseated. However, cold food often does not emit a strong odour because of the reduced movement of particles. These food items are ice creams, chilled fruits, yoghurt, custard and frozen popsicles. Therefore, having an ice cream or a popsicle might help. It is an alternative to keep the body fluids down and prevent vomiting. 

Chicken Broth

Soups and broths serve as a perfect alternative to heavy food during nausea. Also, the body tends to retain more fluids than solid food content. Therefore, during nausea, the body absorbs liquids more easily. Additionally, they restore electrolytes and keep the body hydrated. Consequently, they are essential if you’ve been vomiting or have extreme nausea. Further, if the cause of nausea is congestion due to coughing, you can get relief after consuming chicken broth.

Usually, 240ml of chicken broth contains 16% daily salt intake, 8% DV for niacin and 8% DV for potassium. Chicken broth is also a nutritious source of vitamins, proteins, minerals and calories.  

Bananas

Bananas are an energy-rich, nutritious food that aids the body’s recovery process. Sometimes nausea is caused by excessive acid content in the stomach. It irritates and harms the stomach membrane and induces a nauseous feeling. Consumption of bananas promotes the release of mucus from the stomach lining. This mucus creates a barrier between the membrane and the acidic gastric contents, causing nausea and heartburn. Bananas soothe and relax an upset stomach. Moreover, it helps restore the body’s average potassium content that you might otherwise lose due to vomiting after nausea. 

Rice

Nausea can result from an upset stomach, leading to diarrhoea and vomiting. Rice is a binding food that makes the stool firmer. They are bland and low-fibre foods. Also, they are rich in starch. Therefore, during nausea, one should consume bland, starch-rich food. Bland foods also have a very mild taste. Therefore, bland foods do not upset the stomach. In addition, they provide calories while at the same time soothing the upset stomach. Also, they help replace nutrients that your body has lost due to vomiting and diarrhoea.

Rice is one of the best sources of carbohydrates. Therefore, having a starchy diet during nausea can help in the passive restoration of electrolytes in the body. You can also consume it with hot potatoes, which add to the starch intake of the body. 

Apples

Apples are an excellent food source to consider while feeling nauseous. They effectively help restore appetite too. Apples are rich in fibre and provide a broad range of vitamins (Vitamin A, B1, B2 etc.). They also contain tannins that give a thirst relieving and soothing impact on the body. Additionally, fibre helps to reduce nausea by slowing and easing digestion. 

Apple juice can serve as a suitable drink in countering nausea. However, you should not have it if you don’t like its smell since it might adversely affect the body and trigger a purge.

Toast

Dry food materials such as toast and crackers form an essential remedy for people experiencing nausea. An empty stomach is one of the primary causes of nauseous feelings. In such circumstances, strong-smelling food materials may have an adverse effect by triggering nausea and subsequent vomiting. However, you can avoid this by consuming toast, pretzels and crackers, and similar food. Toasts are simple, bland food. They do not have a strong taste, aroma, or any other nausea-inducing component. 

Research shows that 90% of gynaecologists recommend crackers, toasts and pretzels for pregnant women to counteract nausea caused due to morning sickness.

Precautions

You can undertake certain precautions to prevent the feeling of nausea or prevent the worsening of conditions. Apart from taking the food as mentioned above, the other steps that you can take are:

• Avoid Skipping Meals: Skipping meals can lead to an empty stomach which is one of the primary causes of nausea. Instead, eating frequently provides the body with its correct nutrition. Subsequently, it helps prevent causes that induce nausea and similar syndromes.
• Drink in Small Amounts: Small amounts of food and water keep the body hydrated and nourished at regular intervals without putting excessive pressure on the body’s metabolism. 
• Don’t Lie Down Immediately After Having Food: Avoid lying down immediately after meals since this is a primary reason for nausea. Instead, keep at least a gap of 30 mins for the time of eating to lie down.
• Avoid Cooking during Those Times: Cooked food can often give out strong odours and smells that the body may not be able to tolerate, leading to nausea. Especially when feeling nauseous, avoid overly-aromatic food.
• Keep Your Mouth Clean from Inside: Proper dental hygiene is necessary to prevent feeling overly nauseous and uncomfortable. Brushing the teeth regularly and rinsing the mouth can keep the mouth clean, preventing nausea due to infections.  

Foods to Avoid During Nausea

You should avoid the following category of food if feeling nauseous:

Fatty, Greasy or Fried Foods

Fat is the slowest digesting macronutrients compared to carbs, fibre, and protein. In addition, greasy foods slow down the process of stomach emptying because of their high-fat content. As a result, food sits longer in the stomach, causing nausea.

When fat enters the intestine for digestion, they signal the liver/gallbladder to secrete additional bile to emit the fats. In case of lack of enough bile and emulsification, these fats irritate the intestine’s inner lining and cause nausea.

Very Sweet Foods

Overeating any kind of meal can cause nausea. Consumption of excessive sugary food draws water to the digestive tract and results in an upset system. It gives a nauseous feeling to the person.  

Fructose is a naturally occurring sugar found in fruits, honey and vegetables. Fructose malabsorption is a disorder in which the body fails to absorb fructose adequately. It can result in nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhoea and constipation. 

Excessive sugar consumption causes insulin resistance. It is a condition wherein the body fails to react to the enzyme insulin in the bloodstream actively. As a result, blood sugar levels are affected. Nausea is one of the symptoms of hypoglycemia in which the blood glucose levels are lower than the healthy level. 

Spicy Foods

Spices contain a mixture of acids. Our stomach already releases acidic content of its own. With overconsumption of spices, both the acids become excessive in amount. It irritates and damages the stomach lining, resulting in nausea. In addition, food with many added spices irritates the ulcers present in the mucosal lining of the small intestine. It is known as the duodenum. The aggravated ulcers are exceedingly painful, resulting in nausea and stomach pain.

Fruits with Strong Odours

The brain region regulating nausea can get activated by drugs, chemicals, stomach discomfort, motion, and psychic stimuli. The smell is a form of psychological stimulation. The brain triggers psychological stimulation and sickens people when smelling the same or similar odour. 

Some people are born with an unusually high sensitivity to scent. It is hereditary and is related to the SCN9A gene responsible for sodium channels in the body. This heightened sensitivity can also occur during pregnancy. 

Alcohol

Alcohol raises the production of acid in the stomach. It further slows down the emptying of the stomach. Either of these conditions can cause stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. The body generally breaks down alcohol and is subsequently obliterated. However, certain people with alcohol intolerance fail to break down alcohol completely. Instead, it turns the rest of it into the toxic chemical acetaldehyde. Acetaldehyde leads to severe unpleasant symptoms such as nausea and headaches.

The persistent, uncomfortable feeling brought by nausea usually goes away with time. Food plays a vital role in speeding up the recovery process. However, if nausea persists over a few days, consult a physician immediately since these can often indicate more serious diseases. 

However, minor nausea feelings that arise from motion sickness or pregnancy or mild infection can easily be alleviated by incorporating and following a proper and precise balanced diet. In addition, you must take care to replenish the sodium, potassium and electrolyte content in the body that can aid in the recovery process. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What relieves nausea fast?

A. Food items such as bananas, apples, toast, rice and fluids can help in reducing nausea. However, you must consume it in a limited amount since overconsumption can adversely impact and trigger sickness. The best solution is to follow the BRAT diet. 

Q. Which food should you eat if you have nausea? 

A. You can consume various foods to reduce the effects of nausea. These include ginger, water, and nuts. Furthermore, you can eat cold foods like chicken broth and follow a BRAT diet. Herbal tea, sports drinks, and carbonated drinks also help you.

Q. Is sprite good for nausea?

A. You can use sprite and other carbonated drinks to reduce nausea in limited amounts. However, if taken in excess, it may trigger acid reflux and GERD, which increases nausea. Therefore, you must take care to consume it in limited amounts.

Q. Is Orange juice good for nausea? 

A. No, orange juice is not suitable for nausea. Since orange has a strong odour and a tangy taste, it might adversely affect and trigger nausea. Instead, you can use apple juice as an alternative for nausea. 

Q. Why does coke help with nausea?

A. Carbonation in coke relaxes and replenishes the electrolytes in the body while restoring balance among the body fluids. However, it might instead trigger nausea if taken in excess due to its excess sugar content. So to reduce nausea, you must take it in a limited amount. 

Q. Does ginger help nausea?

A. Yes, ginger helps in reducing nausea. It has natural therapeutic properties and is an effective and economical treatment. Moreover, it is safe to consume.

What to eat when you feel sick? 14 foods to eat with nausea. – Drink-Drink

If you feel sick, choose dry, starchy, and soft foods such as crackers, noodles, and toast. Also, stay hydrated by drinking clear liquids.

What is nausea?

Nausea is an unpleasant and sometimes debilitating feeling that you feel like you are going to be sick. It’s surprisingly common: 50% of adults experience it at some point every year (1).

First described in connection with seasickness, the term nausea comes from the Greek word naus, meaning ship.

What causes nausea?

Nausea starts in the brain, where emotional, cognitive, or chemical triggers can stimulate your nervous system. This causes the abdominal muscles to work unevenly, causing nausea.

Many factors can trigger this process, for example:

• infections
• surgery
• bowel conditions
• drugs
• cancer treatment
• hormonal disorders
• pregnancy
• food allergies and intolerances

Although eating can be difficult when you feel nauseous, foods and drinks are important for hydration. They help replace lost electrolytes and soothe the stomach.

Foods to Eat After Throwing Up

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Here are 14 of the best foods and drinks to eat when you feel sick.

What to eat for nausea

1. Ginger

Ginger originates from Southeast Asia and has a long history of use as a remedy for stomach problems in traditional and folk medicine.(2).

It contains biologically active compounds such as gingerol, paradol and shogaol. Experts suggest that these compounds interact with your central nervous system and stomach to help relieve symptoms of nausea (2).

Several small studies have shown that ginger can reduce nausea associated with motion sickness, surgery, and chemotherapy, although some results have been conflicting (2, 3, 4, 5, 6).

In addition, ginger may be a safe and effective remedy for morning sickness during pregnancy.(7, 8, 9).

Although there is no consensus on the amount of ginger needed to achieve a therapeutic effect, most studies use the equivalent of 0. 5–1.5 grams of dried ginger root per day.

Ginger is commonly consumed as tea, gingerbread, crystallized ginger, ginger beer or ale. It is also available in capsule form.

However, some products may not contain significant amounts of ginger, minimizing their effect on nausea.

Conclusion

Intake of 0.5-1.5 grams of ginger root per day has been found to be effective in treating nausea caused by motion sickness, surgery, chemotherapy and pregnancy. However, the results of the study were mixed.

2. Water and clear drinks

When you feel sick, you may not want to eat at all. However, drinking fluids and staying hydrated are critical, especially if you’re vomiting or have a fever.

Water is always a good source of hydration, but if you are vomiting or have diarrhea, you may also need to replace lost electrolytes.

Some of the best drinks to combat dehydration and nausea include (10, 11):

• water
• oral rehydration solutions
• sports drinks
• carbonated water or flavored gas iced drinks
• iced tea
• clear juices
• coconut water

Very sweet, caffeinated or milky drinks can increase nausea and are best avoided.

You can tolerate sipping cold drinks throughout the day better than drinking a lot at once, especially if you’ve been throwing up.

Conclusion

It is important to stay hydrated, especially when you feel sick. Throughout the day, you can drink clear cold drinks such as water, oral rehydration solutions, iced tea, juice, sports drinks, and coconut water.

3–5. Crackers, pretzels, and toast

Dry foods such as crackers, pretzels, toast, and cereal are often recommended for people who experience nausea. In fact, one study found that nearly 90% of gynecologists recommend soda crackers for women with morning sickness (12, 13).

It is not clear why people tolerate dry, simple foods when they feel sick, and there is no scientific research on this.

However, people are known to vomit more on an empty stomach and respond poorly to strong-smelling foods (12).

That’s why it’s best to avoid cooking when you’re not feeling well, as the sight and smell of food can make you feel sick.

Crackers, pretzels, toast, and cereal are quick snacks that require little to no preparation, have no strong odor, and can help soothe an empty, upset stomach (12).

Conclusion

An empty stomach and strong-smelling foods can cause or increase nausea. Crackers and other simple dry foods will help settle your stomach.

6. Cold foods

When you are not feeling well, you can tolerate cold food better than hot food. That’s because they usually don’t have strong odors that can cause nausea (12).

Aversion to smells is especially common during pregnancy. One study found that women with severe morning sickness were more likely to feel nauseous after smelling cooked food.14).

Some good cold food options include jelly, ice cream, chilled fruit, yogurt, custard, and ice cream.

If nausea makes it difficult for you to hold on to food, simply sucking on an ice cube may help. It’s also a good way to slowly replenish fluids.

Conclusion

Food odors can cause nausea. Cold foods that produce less odor, such as popsicles, jellies, chilled fruit, and ice cream, are often better tolerated.

7. Broths.

Chicken broth and chicken soup are common home remedies for everything from headaches to colds and fevers.

Liquids are often better tolerated than solid foods when you feel sick. This is why broths and soups can be a good first step towards eating again. They also provide hydration and electrolytes, which is especially important if you are vomiting or have a fever.

One cup (240 ml) of chicken broth contains 40% Daily Value (DV) sodium, less than 1% DV potassium, and 3% DV nicotinic acid (15).

If you’re up for it, add chicken or vegetables to your broth for extra calories, protein, vitamins and minerals to give your body some energy back.

In addition, if your nausea is caused by a stuffy nose or a cold, hot broth can help relieve symptoms (16).

Conclusion

Broths and soups provide hydration and electrolytes. This is a good first step towards eating more solid food again when you feel sick or throw up.

8. bananas

When you feel sick, it can be difficult to eat a significant amount of food.

That’s why it’s important that the foods you eat are nutritious and provide energy to help your body stay strong and recover. This is especially true if your nausea is caused by a chronic condition and you are trying to maintain weight.

Bananas are a nutritious and energy-rich snack. They are easy to eat even when you are sick.

In addition, bananas help replace potassium, which can be lost if you have had vomiting or diarrhea (17).

Just one medium-sized banana provides 105 calories, 27 grams of carbohydrates, 9% of the daily requirement for potassium, and 25% of the daily value of vitamin B6 (18).

Other soft, high-calorie foods include avocados, cereals, compotes, mashed potatoes, and peanut butter.

Conclusion

Bananas are a good source of energy and vitamins for nausea and can help replace potassium lost due to vomiting or diarrhea.

9. Applesauce.

Applesauce is a popular food for people with nausea or diarrhea. In fact, it’s part of the BRAT diet of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast.

In the past, this diet was commonly recommended for people with indigestion, especially children. Although it is now considered overly restrictive, many people still find the products it mentions helpful (19).

One study in people undergoing chemotherapy found that a light, tasteless diet of applesauce, cottage cheese, and vanilla ice cream improved food intake and reduced nausea and vomiting (20).

Applesauce is a good source of carbohydrates and gentle on the stomach.

A half-cup (122 grams) of unsweetened applesauce contains about 50 calories and 14 grams of carbs (21).

What’s more, it’s high in dietary fiber pectin, which can be helpful if you’re experiencing diarrhea in addition to feeling nauseous (22).

Conclusion

Applesauce is commonly eaten by people with nausea and diarrhea. It is a good source of energy and carbohydrates and is usually well tolerated even if you feel unwell.

10–12. Rice, potatoes and noodles

Starchy, simple foods like rice, potatoes and noodles are good choices when you feel sick.

They are easy to prepare and high in calories. They also help to soothe the stomach.

Foods that are tasteless, colorless, and odorless are often easier on your body because they cause less nausea than heavily flavored foods.

Rice can be boiled or steamed and eaten neat or lightly seasoned. It can also be eaten cold if hot food is disgusting.

Potatoes can also be boiled, steamed, baked or mashed with a little butter and milk for extra calories.

Finally, noodles can be boiled and eaten neat. They can also be added to a light broth or sauce to increase fluid intake.

Conclusion

Soft, starchy foods are a good choice when you feel sick. They are mild in taste and smell and are a good source of calories and comfort.

13. Protein-rich meals

Several studies have investigated the effect of macronutrient composition of food on nausea.

One study in pregnant women found that eating a protein-rich meal significantly reduced symptoms of nausea when compared to eating a meal rich in carbohydrates or fats (23).

In addition, as part of the motion sickness study, people were given drinks rich in protein or carbohydrates before they were spun in a spinning drum. Drinks rich in protein have been found to be most effective in suppressing symptoms of nausea (24).

Another study in people undergoing chemotherapy showed that a combination of ginger and protein supplements reduced nausea (25).

It is unclear why protein has such an effect on nausea. The hypothesis is that it helps regulate stomach activity by increasing the release of the hormone gastrin (24).

Protein-rich foods are especially important for people suffering from chronic nausea due to illness, as this macronutrient helps maintain body strength and reduces the risk of malnutrition.

Conclusion

Foods rich in protein are superior to foods high in carbohydrates or fats when it comes to reducing nausea. Protein can help regulate stomach activity by increasing gastrin secretion.

14. Herbal tea.

Herbal tea is commonly used as a remedy for nausea. In fact, one study found that 21.7% of gynecologists recommend it to pregnant women experiencing nausea (13).

However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. Research on specific compounds such as peppermint and chamomile has mostly been done in capsules or in aromatherapy form.

For example, mint aromatherapy has been found to reduce nausea in people undergoing open-heart surgery, while combined mint and lemon aromatherapy has been found to have the same effect in pregnant women (26, 27).

Despite the lack of scientific evidence, many people with nausea find that herbal teas are well tolerated.

Drinking a cup of mint tea or adding a slice of lemon to hot water can help relieve nausea. Even if the herb itself has no effect, fluids help keep you hydrated when you’re sick.

Conclusion

Although mint and chamomile have been found to reduce nausea in capsules or in aromatherapy form, there is no scientific evidence that herbal teas reduce nausea. However, many people find them soothing and provide hydration.

Other tips for managing nausea

In addition to eating certain foods and drinks, there are other steps you can take to help relieve nausea (12):

• Eat a small amount every 1-2 hours. Do not skip meals as an empty stomach can make nausea worse.
• Eat and drink slowly and in small portions. This allows you to relax while eating and take time to enjoy your meal. You may also want to avoid drinking liquids and solid foods at the same time.
• Do not lie flat after eating. Avoid lying down for at least 30 minutes after eating as this can put pressure on the stomach and make nausea worse.
• Avoid cooking. Smell during cooking and cooking may increase nausea. Avoid or reduce time spent in the kitchen whenever possible.
• Keep your mouth clean. Nausea and vomiting can leave a bad taste in your mouth, which can prevent you from eating. Rinse and brush your teeth regularly and use sugar-free mints to keep you feeling fresh.

In addition, avoid the following types of foods when you feel sick (12):

• greasy, greasy or fried foods
• very sweet foods
• spicy foods
• foods with a strong smell

9 0017 alcohol

• caffeine

Conclusion

You can take additional steps to treat nausea by avoiding certain foods; eating small, regular snacks or meals; separate intake of liquid and solid food; avoid cooking; get up after eating; and keep your mouth fresh and clean.

General recommendations for nausea

What to do if you feel sick in the morning

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Nausea is a very unpleasant sensation that can interfere with eating, drinking and swallowing food. Those who experience it seem to tolerate certain foods better than others, including soft rice, pasta, potatoes, saltine crackers, and cold foods.

Other foods and drinks, such as ginger, some teas, and protein-rich foods, may even relieve symptoms of nausea.

The most important thing when you’re not feeling well is to stay properly hydrated by drinking plenty of water and electrolyte-rich drinks.

By trying these products, you will be able to eat in bad weather and in the long term.

Nutrition and care for gastrointestinal disorders

Diet; Dysphagia; Heartburn; hiccups; Flatulence; Nausea; Vomit; Belching; constipation; Diarrhea; Involuntary defecation.

POWER MODE

Proper diet is important for a cancer patient. The patient should receive food rich in vitamins and proteins at least 4-6 times a day, and attention should be paid to the variety and taste of dishes.

No special diets should be followed, only excessively hot or very cold, rough, fried or spicy foods should be avoided. Patients with advanced forms of stomach cancer should be fed with more gentle food (sour cream, cottage cheese, boiled fish, meat broths, steam cutlets, fruits and vegetables in crushed or pureed form, etc.) During meals, it is necessary to take 1-2 tablespoons 0.5 – 1% solution of hydrochloric (hydrochloric) acid.

Severe obstruction of solid food in patients with inoperable forms of cancer of the cardia of the stomach and esophagus requires the appointment of high-calorie and vitamin-rich liquid food (sour cream, raw eggs, broths, liquid cereals, sweet tea, liquid vegetable puree, etc.). Sometimes the following mixture contributes to the improvement of patency: rectified alcohol 96% – 50 ml, glycerin – 150 ml (one tablespoon before meals). The intake of this mixture can be combined with the appointment of a 0.1% solution of atropine, 4-6 drops per tablespoon of water 15-20 minutes before meals. With the threat of complete obstruction of the esophagus, hospitalization is necessary for palliative surgery. For a patient with a malignant tumor of the esophagus, you should have a drinking bowl and feed him only liquid food. In this case, it is often necessary to use a thin gastric tube passed into the stomach through the nose.

DYSPHAGIA

Dysphagia is a swallowing disorder caused by organic or functional obstacles in the way of the food bolus moving along the esophagus. The main causes of dysphagia are diseases of the pharynx (traumatic or inflammatory), lesions of the nervous system and muscles involved in the act of swallowing, compression (narrowing) of the esophagus (tumors of the mediastinum and esophagus, swollen lymph nodes), damage to the mucous membrane of the esophagus (trauma, burns , inflammation). The main symptom of dysphagia is the inability to swallow food, first solid, then liquid.

Functional dysphagia is characterized by episodic occurrence or intermittent course and is provoked by the ingestion of irritating food (hot or cold). Dysphagia due to hysterical neurosis can also be observed when swallowing liquid food and water, but is absent when swallowing dense food. Functional dysphagia usually does not progress.

Organic dysphagia is characterized by the absence of remission and association with the ingestion of dense food. Drinking water with food brings relief. With tumors of the esophagus, dysphagia progresses and is accompanied by retrosternal pain when swallowing. If the organic nature of dysphagia is suspected, a targeted x-ray examination of the esophagus and stomach is indicated, followed by esophagoscopy. Diagnosis can be aided by subcutaneous administration of atropine sulfate followed by X-ray examination. With functional disorders of the esophagus (spasm), dysphagia disappears from subcutaneous injection of 1 ml of a 0. 1% solution of atropine sulfate, and remains with organic lesions.

HEARTBURN

Heartburn is a burning sensation along the esophagus. Appears when acidic gastric contents enter the mucosa of the esophagus. Most often occurs with an excess amount of gastric juice with high acidity, but sometimes it occurs in people with normal and low acidity. Heartburn usually affects patients with gastritis, with increased secretion of gastric juice, as well as patients with gastric ulcer. Sometimes heartburn causes regurgitation of acidic stomach contents. If you have heartburn, you should find out the cause, and to remove it, it is recommended to drink half a glass of milk or take alkalis: a pinch of sodium bicarbonate (soda) in half with burnt magnesia. If heartburn occurs in people with a labile nervous system and impaired gastrointestinal motility, it is advisable to prescribe substances that calm the nervous system.

HICCUP

Hiccup is a reflex act, expressed in a sudden convulsive contraction of the diaphragm, accompanied by a strong breath with a characteristic sound. It can last from several minutes to several days. Incessant hiccups is an extremely serious condition that requires emergency care. Short-term hiccups most often occur in response to the rapid filling of the stomach, especially with dry food. Hiccups are longer in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, especially the gallbladder, in the postoperative period after interventions in the abdominal cavity, with encephalitis, cerebrovascular accidents, intestinal obstruction, neurosis, etc. Symptomatic treatment: 1-2 tablespoons 0.5 % novocaine solution inside, belladonna (0.015 g), chlorpromazine (0.025-0.05 g), valerian, etaperazine (0.005-0.01 g)

METEORISM

Flatulence is a pathological gas formation in the intestines, causing a sharp bloating. Sometimes it occurs with increased swallowing of air or intestinal dyskinesia (violation of contractility), occasionally – with reduced absorption of gases by the intestines. Increases flatulence eating black bread, sauerkraut, milk. As a rule, flatulence occurs with enterocolitis, heart failure with cirrhosis of the liver, and also after operations in the abdominal cavity. To reduce flatulence, activated charcoal is prescribed several tablets a day, enemas with chamomile infusion, and a diet. A good result is the introduction of a gas outlet tube.

Gas removal is carried out with the accumulation of a large amount of gases in the intestines using a special soft thick-walled rubber tube 30-50 cm long and 3-5 mm in diameter. One end of the tube is rounded and has a hole, and the other end is cut obliquely. The tube should be boiled before insertion. For better insertion of the tube, the patient is placed on the left side, the buttocks are pushed apart. Lubricated with petroleum jelly or any other fat, the tube is gently inserted into the anus with rotational movements. If the patient cannot be rotated, then the manipulation is carried out on the back with knees bent and legs slightly apart. The person performing the manipulation with the left hand slightly raises the area of ​​​​the sacrum, and with the right hand inserts the gas outlet tube by 20-30 cm so that the outer end is lowered into the bedpan, which is under the patient, since fecal particles can also leave the intestine along with gases. You can keep the tube in the intestine for no more than 2 hours, then it is removed so that there are no bedsores of the intestinal wall. During the day, you can repeat the procedure several times at certain intervals (1-2 hours).

The insertion of the gas tube is difficult due to the accumulation of dense feces in the intestines. In such cases, a microclyster with glycerin or chamomile is placed before the introduction.

After removing the tube, wipe the circumference of the anus with cotton wool, and in case of irritation, lubricate with Vaseline. The tube should be washed with soap and warm water, wiped and sterilized by boiling. Under no circumstances should unsterilized gas outlet tubes be used. Always have a clean, boiled gas outlet tube on hand for emergencies.

NAUSEUS

Nausea is an unpleasant sensation in the epigastric region, a feeling of heaviness, sometimes accompanied by blanching of the face, increased sweating, palpitations, salivation and slowing of respiratory movements. Nausea often precedes vomiting. With nausea, patients with low acidity of gastric juice are prescribed 1 tablespoon of natural or artificial gastric juice during meals. Patients with irritation of the mucous membrane of the gallbladder are prescribed a tubeless tube: 1 teaspoon of bitter salt is diluted in 1/4 cup of hot water, the patient slowly drinks it and lies on his right side for 40 minutes with a heating pad. This achieves a choleretic effect and reduces nausea.

VOMITING

Vomiting is a complex reflex act involving the muscles of the stomach, diaphragm, anterior abdominal wall, as well as the epiglottis and soft palate, which results in the eruption of vomit from the stomach out through the mouth. Vomiting can be the result of a disease of the gastrointestinal tract, poisoning, irritation of the root of the tongue and soft palate. Vomiting can also occur with increased intracranial pressure, brain tumors, hypertension, etc. Bile from the duodenum joins the food masses with severe vomiting. To deliberately induce vomiting, a reflex effect is used: the root of the tongue is irritated with a spatula or 0.5 ml of a 1% solution of apomorphine is injected subcutaneously.

The caregiver’s task is to alleviate the patient’s condition as much as possible when vomiting. It needs to be comfortably seated, cover the chest with a towel or oilcloth, bring a clean tray, basin or bucket to your mouth. The dentures need to be removed. If the patient is weak or it is forbidden for him to sit, it is necessary to turn his head to one side so that it is slightly lower than the body, and bring the tray to the corner of the mouth. You can also place a towel, folded several times, or a sheet to protect the pillow and linen from soiling. During vomiting, the caregiver should be inseparably near the patient. The appearance of vomiting must be reported to the doctor.

After vomiting, the patient should be allowed to rinse the mouth with warm water, wipe the lips and corners of the mouth. In very weakened patients, each time after vomiting, it is necessary to wipe the oral cavity with a cotton swab moistened with water or one of the disinfecting solutions (boric acid solution, a bright solution of potassium permanganate, 2% sodium bicarbonate (soda), etc.) To stop vomiting, you can give the patient a few mint drops, a sip of cooled water, a piece of ice, 5 ml of 0.5% novocaine solution.

The vomit usually contains particles of undigested food, an admixture of bile and has a sour smell. Vomiting “coffee grounds” indicates gastric bleeding, its nature is due to the action of gastric juice on hemoglobin. When vomiting “coffee grounds” or bloody vomiting, a doctor is urgently called and provides first aid. The patient should be immediately laid to bed in a horizontal position, a light ice pack is placed on the stomach area. Ice changes as it melts. The patient should not be fed, watered or given oral medication. The caregiver must create complete physical and mental rest for the patient and not leave him alone until the doctor arrives. Transportation of patients is carried out on a stretcher in compliance with all precautions during the transfer and transportation.

The vomit is left until the doctor arrives and, if necessary, sent to the laboratory in a clean graduated jar with a wide neck and a lid, indicating the necessary information about the patient and the purpose of the study on the label. If it is not possible to send the vomit to the laboratory immediately, store it in a cool place. If the patient vomits several times during the day, it is necessary to collect the vomit each time in a separate bowl, since their qualitative and quantitative difference is of diagnostic value.

BURNING

Belching is the release of gases from the stomach through the esophagus. When belching, air can escape, which enters the esophagus and stomach when swallowing (aerophagia), as well as carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide and methane, which are formed during the processes of protein breakdown and fermentation. In these cases, belching usually has a more unpleasant odor. The mechanism of belching lies in the fact that in the conditions of an open cardial part of the stomach and pylorus spasm, the diaphragm descending during inhalation and a tense abdominal press press on the stomach; the contraction of the gastric walls is also important. Belching is caused by reflexes from the stomach and peritoneum. In a healthy person, belching can occur when the stomach is full of food. With increased acidity of gastric juice, belching can be sour, with a disease of the gallbladder – rotten, with the accumulation of a large amount of air in the stomach – airy. Belching is not a disease, but a symptom, therefore, when parts of an eructation appear that bother the patient, the underlying disease should be treated. If belching is caused by overeating, then you should eat in small portions.

CONSTIPATION

Constipation – retention of stool due to slow bowel movements. Most often, it occurs due to a weakening of the intestinal muscles and peristalsis, atony of the intestines and abdominal muscles, or an increase in the tone of the circular muscles in certain parts of the colon.

Atonic constipation contributes to a sedentary lifestyle, the use of easily digestible food (cereal, sour cream) with a small amount of fiber.

Spasmodic constipation is the result of tonic contractions of the circular muscles, which leads to the cessation of peristalsis in the corresponding segment of the intestine. Overexcitation of the autonomic nervous system plays an important role in the development of intestinal spasms. Spastic constipation is facilitated by roughage rich in fiber (bread, vegetables, etc.).

Mechanical constipation occurs when the intestines are bent, blockage of various parts of the intestine with tumors, hemorrhoids, fecal stones. In the presence of fecal stones, the caregiver puts on a rubber glove, lubricates it well with petroleum jelly, and, inserting two fingers into the patient’s anus, tries to remove fecal stones. The patient lies on his back with legs bent at the knees. A bedpan is placed under the sacrum. Sometimes mechanical constipation can lead to partial intestinal obstruction. In such cases, a siphon enema is given until stool is obtained (see Siphon enema).

Habitual constipation occurs when the normal reflex to defecate is constantly suppressed due to haste, busyness, shyness, etc., in connection with which the intestines get used to infrequent emptying. With 3-4-day constipation, nausea, a feeling of fullness in the abdominal cavity, discomfort in the lower abdomen, appetite decreases, bad breath appears.

Treatment of constipation.

With habitual constipation, a daily reflex should be developed or laxatives should be given: rhubarb, buckthorn bark, joster, etc. In some cases, 25% magnesium sulfate solution helps (1 tablespoon daily on an empty stomach). Patients are prescribed a diet that contains a large amount of vegetable fiber – beets, cabbage, prunes, black bread. Diet #3.

For spastic constipation, drugs that calm the nervous system (valerian, bromides, belloid, etc.), as well as drugs containing atropine, are prescribed. Well helps balneological treatment at resorts with mineral waters. Patients in bed are recommended to periodically put cleansing enemas from water at room temperature with the addition of 1 cup of standard chamomile infusion, soap chips from baby soap (5-10 g) or 20 g of glycerin.

With a sedentary lifestyle, you should move more, play sports, get used to the act of defecation at certain times of the day.

Cancer patients often have constipation, which is why enemas should be used more widely, as well as laxatives (phenolphthalein, magnesium sulfate, rhubarb, vaseline oil, etc.). This is especially important for tumors of the rectum, when the progression of the cancer process leads to an increase in intestinal obstruction, the formation of fecal stones, and an increase in intoxication. Such patients should be prescribed a liquid high-calorie diet without fiber, systematically use laxatives. With an increase in intestinal obstruction, the patient should be sent to a surgical hospital for the imposition of a fecal fistula.

DIARRH

Diarrhea occurs when intestinal motility increases and intestinal secretory function increases. It is observed with inflammation of the intestinal mucosa, a decrease in the acidity of gastric juice, excitation of the nervous system, poor absorption of nutrients and water, and therefore dense stool masses are not formed. The presence of blood and mucus in the stool may indicate an infectious disease. In all cases, a doctor’s consultation is necessary to determine the cause of diarrhea and prescribe treatment.

Bedpans, ducks and pots are disinfected with a clarified bleach solution and rinsed with running hot water. The room is being disinfected.

The patient’s diet should be monitored: it should be easily digestible, with plenty of protein, vitamins B and C, and fluids. Milk, fatty and fried foods, as well as vegetable fiber are excluded from the diet.

Patients suffering from diarrhea should be washed after each bowel movement and to avoid irritation wipe dry and lubricate the skin around the anus with petroleum jelly or any fat.

INVOLVED DEFECTION

Involuntary defecation occurs due to relaxation of the anal sphincter. At the same time, patients constantly leak a small amount of liquid stools that pollute the bed, emit an unpleasant fecal odor that irritates others, and macerate the skin around the anus, which can lead to pressure sores. The caregiver should especially carefully monitor the cleanliness of bed and underwear in patients with involuntary defecation and change it as necessary. The mattress is covered with oilcloth, on which a diaper is placed; if it becomes dirty, it is often changed. A rubber bedpan is placed under the sacrum of the patient, which also serves as a backing circle for the prevention of bedsores. It is advisable to place the patient on a special bed, consisting of three parts, the middle of which (movable) contains a bedpan.

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