Diet and Food Guidance for Nausea

When you feel sick, small and gentle meals work better than large ones.

During nausea

• Sip clear fluids slowly: water, oral rehydration solution, clear broth, diluted juice or coconut water
• Wait until you are not retching before eating
• Start with small amounts of bland, dry food: plain toast, crackers, rice, banana, boiled potato or dry cereal
• Eat slowly and sit upright after eating
• Cold or room-temperature food has less smell and is often easier

As you recover

• Add soft foods such as khichdi, curd, idli, oatmeal and boiled vegetables
• Eat 5 to 6 small meals through the day
• Add protein slowly: eggs, dal, yoghurt or lean meat
• Return to your usual diet over 1 to 2 days

Foods that may help

• Ginger tea, ginger candy or biscuits: some studies suggest benefit, results vary
• Peppermint or fennel tea in small amounts