Cold and flu season, low blood sugar, pregnancy, hangovers and more — there are many causes of nausea, but thankfully many natural remedies, too. We’re going beyond ginger with more simple foods and beverages that soothe nausea, no matter the cause.
Eggs
Prepared simply, eggs are one of the most easily digestible foods that you can eat to help ease nausea. Scrambled, poached or soft-boiled all do the trick, giving the body a lift of energy with minimal volume.
Bland Foods
Strong aromas and flavours make nausea worse, but bland foods can actually help to eliminate it. Keep your energy levels and blood sugar regulated with things like mild brothy soups, toast with honey and plain crackers. It may not be exciting, but it works.
Related: The Difference Between Broth, Stock and Bouillon, Plus How to Use Them
Sour Citrus
Lemon juice has been used by pregnant women to combat morning sickness, but any sour citrus can help with a range of nausea causes. Despite their bold taste, sour citrus juices are actually quite easy on the stomach. And, if you have a cold or the flu, a dose of citrusy vitamin C will help you work towards a speedy recovery. This cold-busting citrus smoothie is also a great idea for uneasy stomachs.
Crackers
Some types of nausea can handle liquids, but other types can’t. Dry foods, like saltine crackers, pretzels and toast go down easy and won’t stir up more woozy feelings
Chili Peppers
The compound in chili peppers called capsaicin curbs our awareness of pain, making a touch of spice an anti-nausea superhero. Don’t go eating a pile of spicy chicken wings, but do add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to lemon tea.
Peppermint Tea
Using mint to soothe nausea is an age-old remedy that many find effective. After a long steep, peppermint tea can soothe digestive spasms, enhance digestion and stop nausea altogether. Peppermint candies also work, giving you a bit of a sugar boost, too.
Low-Fat Foods
Excess fat can trigger already irritating nausea, so keep things lean with applesauce, low-fat puddings, porridge, lean poached chicken, and plain rice. A dot of butter is fine, but too much can cause a stomach to stir.
Pears
If it’s a spinning stomach, try pears. They’re rich in fibre, which helps to slow down a hyperactive system. Apples, prunes and whole grains have a similar effect.
Chilled Foods
The temperature of your food can play a role in eliminating nausea. Chilled foods like ice pops, cold applesauce, yogurt and apple juice go down much better than hot soups and tea. If you have a fever, cold foods and beverages will be additionally soothing.
Bananas
Banish nausea by snacking on a banana. This energy-dense fruit is high in potassium, which is especially helpful if your nausea is accompanied with diarrhea or vomiting.