Top 10 Foods That Help With Nausea From Chemotherapy
Nausea is one of the most common and frequently very uncomfortable side effects experienced during chemotherapy treatment. While various medications are available to help manage these distressing symptoms, many patients often prefer to explore natural and holistic approaches to find gentle and lasting relief.Here is a simple list of ten foods and remedies that can help ease nausea gently and effectively during your treatment, supporting your health at every stage.
Ginger
Ginger has been used for centuries across various cultures around the world to effectively treat nausea, largely due to its powerful active compounds, gingerol and shogaol. These natural compounds work synergistically to soothe the digestive system, calm stomach discomfort, and reduce nausea signals sent to the brain, providing gentle and reliable relief without harsh side effects. This makes ginger a time-tested remedy that supports digestive health and overall well-being naturally.
How to use: Sip on ginger tea, chew ginger candies, or grate fresh ginger into warm water.
2. Peppermint
Peppermint contains menthol, a natural compound known for its soothing properties that help relax the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract. This muscle-relaxing action effectively reduces spasms and alleviates uncomfortable feelings of queasiness, thereby promoting overall digestive comfort and supporting better gut health.
How to use: Enjoy as a tea, inhale peppermint essential oil, or suck on natural peppermint candies.
3. Bananas
Bananas are naturally soft and easy to digest, making them an ideal food for sensitive stomachs. They are rich in potassium, a vital electrolyte that is often depleted after episodes of vomiting. Consuming bananas helps to restore electrolyte balance and provides gentle, soothing nourishment to support the body’s recovery.
How to use: Eat fresh or blend into a smoothie.
4. Apples / Applesauce
Apples contain pectin, a type of soluble fiber that plays an important role in settling the stomach and supporting healthy digestion. This fiber promotes regular bowel movements and helps nourish the beneficial bacteria in the gut, contributing to overall digestive wellness and improved gastrointestinal function.
How to use: Eat sliced apples, steam them, or opt for unsweetened applesauce.
5. Plain Rice or Toast
These bland carbohydrates serve as a fundamental and essential component of the well-known BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast), a dietary approach widely recognized for being gentle, easily digestible, and soothing to the stomach, especially during episodes of digestive upset, nausea, or other gastrointestinal illnesses.
How to use: Eat plain white rice or lightly toasted bread with no butter or strong spreads.
6. Cucumber
Cucumbers are naturally hydrating, mild in flavor, and possess a refreshing, cooling effect, making them especially ideal for soothing and gently settling an upset stomach. Their high water content also helps to keep the body well-hydrated, promoting overall digestive comfort.
How to use: Eat thin slices or infuse in water for a refreshing drink.
7. Herbal Teas (Chamomile, Fennel)
Herbal teas offer a gentle and soothing effect on the digestive tract, helping to calm, relax, and restore it in a natural and highly effective way. They are especially beneficial for alleviating common digestive discomforts such as bloating, gas, and nausea, thereby promoting a more comfortable, balanced, and harmonious digestive experience overall.
How to use: Sip slowly 2–3 times a day, slightly warm.
8. Coconut Water
Packed with natural electrolytes and a rich blend of essential minerals, coconut water helps effectively combat dehydration and alleviate fatigue associated with nausea, providing vital support for maintaining optimal hydration and consistently boosting energy levels throughout the day.
How to use: Sip chilled or at room temperature throughout the day.
9. Lemon
The bright, uplifting scent and tangy, zesty flavor of lemon can effectively help neutralize feelings of nausea, providing quick relief. Additionally, lemon offers a refreshing and alkalizing effect on the body, supporting overall balance and well-being.
How to use: Add lemon slices to water, inhale the aroma, or suck on lemon wedges.
10. Bone Broth or Miso Soup
These warm, nourishing liquids are rich in essential minerals and nutrients, making them both highly beneficial and easy to digest. They provide gentle comfort and support, especially during times when solid foods may be difficult to tolerate or unappealing.
How to use: Sip slowly in small amounts between meals.
Other Holistic Tips for Managing Nausea
Eat small, frequent meals instead of large ones.
Avoid strong odours, greasy or spicy foods.
Utilize acupressure or auriculotherapy techniques, such as those offered by AcuKITS™, to enhance your body's natural healing and promote overall well-being.
Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or guided meditation before eating.
Combining these gentle, holistic foods and habits can offer real relief during chemotherapy and support overall wellness. Always consult your healthcare provider before changing your diet or using new remedies during treatment.
AcuKITS™ - Natural relief from cancer therapy side effects, rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Cancer & Chronic Illness Support
Developed by a registered acupuncturist, AcuKITS™ empower patients to take charge of their health and support natural healing in the comfort of their homes.
Auriculotherapy and acupressure are Traditional Chinese Medicine approaches to healing the offer gentle, non -invasive techniques to target certain points on the ear and body to improve physical and emotional well-being.
AcuKITS™ helps friends and family members actively participate and play a meaningful role in supporting their loved ones' healing and overall well-being during cancer treatment.
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AcuKITS™ Support:
Cancer patients during treatment (chemotherapy and radiation)
Individuals with chronic illness
Symptoms Associated With:
Stress & Anxiety
Depression
Nausea & Vomiting
Loss of Appetite
Insomnia
Bladder/ Urinary issues
Cognitive Impairment
Immune Suppression
Fatigue
Taste Alterations
Diarrhea
Skin Conditions
Constipation
Dizziness & Vertigo
Bone & Joint Health
Liver Health
Headache & Migraine
Hot Flashes
Mouth Sores
Vision Issues
Neuropathy
Pain
Hair Loss