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what to eat when nauseous ?

# What to Eat When You’re Nauseous: A Guide to Soothing Your Stomach

Feeling nauseous can be a very uncomfortable experience that often takes away your appetite. However, the right choice of foods can help your stomach settle down and ease your discomfort. Here’s a guide to help you manage nausea by choosing the right foods, based on advice from healthcare professionals.

## 1. Starchy, Plain Foods

Starchy dishes such as white rice, potatoes, and noodles are excellent choices when you’re dealing with nausea. These foods are easy to prepare and digest, and they’re also high in calories, offering some energy without overwhelming your digestive system. Plain foods with no strong flavors are usually easier to tolerate when your stomach is upset.

## 2. Dry Foods

Dry snacks such as saltine crackers, pretzels, rice cakes, and oatcakes can help to alleviate queasiness. These snacks are easy to eat even with little effort, and their dry nature can be less stimulating to an upset stomach. Eating these snacks before bed can help settle your stomach during the night.

## 3. Cool Foods

Cold foods tend to be easier on a sensitive stomach. Think of options like watermelon, ice pops, smoothies, and cold pasta dishes. These foods usually have a less pungent aroma, which can be particularly beneficial if your sense of smell is heightened and contributing to your nausea.

## 4. Ginger and Mint

Ginger is famous for its anti-nausea properties. You can enjoy ginger in different forms—ginger cookies, ginger ale (preferably flat and sugar-free), or ginger tea. Similarly, mint is also a good option; peppermint tea can be soothing for a nausea-prone stomach.

## 5. The BRAT Diet

The BRAT diet, which includes bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, is frequently recommended for those experiencing nausea or diarrhea. These foods are bland and typically easy to keep down. However, you should only follow this diet after you’ve gone at least 6 hours without throwing up.

## 6. Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits like bananas are useful because they are easy to digest and have binding properties that help prevent diarrhea. Clear vegetable broths can also be soothing. However, avoid high-fiber fruits and vegetables like beans, broccoli, and raw veggies, as these can worsen nausea.

## 7. Hydration

Staying hydrated is essential, even if you don’t feel like drinking much. Sip water or electrolyte replacement drinks like Pedialyte to avoid dehydration. Avoid sugary sodas and alcohol, as they can further upset your stomach.

## Foods to Avoid

– **Fatty and Fried Foods:** These are harder to digest and can make nausea worse.
– **Spicy and Acidic Foods:** These can irritate your stomach lining and increase nausea.
– **Greasy, Meaty Foods:** Heavy meals, especially those with meat, can put extra pressure on your digestive system.
– **Strong-Smelling Foods:** Strong odors can intensify nausea.
– **Large Meals:** Large portions of food can overload your digestive system and increase feelings of discomfort.

## Additional Tips
– **Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals:** Smaller portions are easier to manage and less likely to increase your nausea.
– **Chew Your Food Thoroughly:** This can help alleviate nausea by aiding digestion.
– **Avoid Lying Down After Eating:** This will prevent food from pushing back up into your esophagus.
– **Try Acupressure:** Pressing the P6 point, located two fingers below the inner crease of your wrist on the palm side, might help with nausea relief.

## Conclusion

When you’re nauseous, the focus should be on foods that won’t cause further digestive upset. Opt for bland, cool, and simple foods that are high in carbohydrates and low in fats. Remember to keep yourself hydrated and eat smaller, more frequent meals. If your nausea persists, it’s wise to consult a healthcare provider.

By adhering to these recommendations, you can navigate your way back to feeling more like yourself and ready to eat.

Stay healthy!