Nutrition tips for managing Nausea and Vomiting

Most people who have nausea and vomiting from medications, chemotherapy or radiation therapy have it infrequently and on a temporary basis. These side effects can be aggravated by certain foods, activities or surroundings. The following suggestions may help you limit these problems and allow you to eat adequately until they pass.

At mealtimes

Food

Eat small, frequent meals.
Eat and drink slowly.
Eat only until comfortably satisfied.
Keep liquids to a minimum. Drink liquids 30 minutes to 60 minutes before or after meals.
Try a variety of foods.
Start with easily digested foods such as dry toast, broth, broth–based soups (such as chicken rice), hard candy and cool liquids such as apple juice, carbonated beverages, and sherbet or gelatin.
If you tolerate the above foods, try other mild–flavored, non–fatty foods such as cereals, rice, baked potatoes, lean meats, fish, chicken, cottage cheese, vegetables and fruits. These foods are usually tolerated better than fatty, spicy or rich foods or foods with strong aromas.
Rest after meals, since activity may stimulate vomiting. When you rest, do not lie flat for at least two hours after eating. It may be helpful to loosen any tight clothing.

Anytime

Minimize activities or surroundings that make your nausea worse.

If the smell of food bothers you, stay away from cooking areas. When possible, let someone else do the cooking. If you must cook, use foods that can be warmed at low temperatures or those that do not need to be cooked, such as sandwiches, cheese and fruit plates, or salad plates. Foods often give off less odor when cooked in a microwave oven.

Fresh air may help. If possible, open a window, or sit or take a walk outside.
Try activities to keep your mind occupied, such as needlework, reading, crossword puzzles or listening to music.

If these steps do not help, talk to your physician about anti–nausea medication.

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