Only follow the BRAT diet for a short time, 24–36 hours. It is only intended to help you fight off stomach issues for a short while. You don’t get the nutrients necessary while on this diet. [1] X Research source [2] X Trustworthy Source FamilyDoctor. org Family-focused medical advice site run by the American Academy of Family Doctors Go to source
You can also try mints, clear soup, flavored gelatin, angel food cake, sherbet, popsicles, and ice cubes made of apple or grape juice. [3] X Research source [4] X Research source
Fatty foods such as fried foods Spicy foods or seasonings[6] X Expert Source Roy Nattiv, MDBoard Certified Gastroenterologist Expert Interview. 14 October 2020. Processed foods such as chips, donuts, fast food, and canned foods Beverages with alcohol and caffeine, especially coffee Foods with strong aromas
Meals should consist of the mild foods already discussed.
Ginger has been a long-standing home remedy for many different conditions that cause nausea. These include motion sickness, seasickness, hyperemesis gravidarum or vomiting during pregnancy, chemotherapy induced nausea, and post-surgery nausea. [11] X Research source Ernst E, Pittler M. H. Efficacy of ginger for nausea and vomiting: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials. British Journal of Anesthesia. Vol 84 Issue 3. p367-371. 2000
Drinks such as ginger ale and lemon lime soda are very helpful for nausea. These don’t have to be flat when you drink them.
Some people find that hanging their head between their knees helps as well.
After eating a meal, it is good habit to walk for 30 minutes to help digestion.
Cold, fresh air can be beneficial relief from these situations. Get outside quickly for fresh air. If you can’t, a fan or air conditioning may have a similar effect. [17] X Research source Also try opening a window or using a kitchen air vent when cooking to let the smells out. [18] X Research source
Sniff from the peppermint oil bottle or use a few drops on a cotton ball, place it in a cup, and inhale. Massage the oil around your abdominal area or chest so you can breathe it in. Mix the oil with water and add it to a spray bottle for home and car use. Add five to 10 drops into a bath before taking it. [22] X Research source
Try using guided imagery with deep breathing. As you sit comfortably with your eyes closed, blend deep breathing with helpful imagery and perhaps a focus word or phrase that helps you relax. The image can be a vacation spot, a room at home, or some other safe or pleasant place. This can help some people block out nausea and the urge to vomit. [25] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School’s Educational Site for the Public Go to source [26] X Trustworthy Source American Cancer Society Nonprofit devoted to promoting cancer research, education, and support Go to source
This method can also lower heart rate and blood pressure, relieve stress, and give a sense of well-being. [29] X Trustworthy Source American Cancer Society Nonprofit devoted to promoting cancer research, education, and support Go to source
Take the medications as described on the label or by your healthcare professional. [31] X Trustworthy Source FamilyDoctor. org Family-focused medical advice site run by the American Academy of Family Doctors Go to source [32] X Research source Flake Z, Scalley RD, Bailey A. Practical Selection of Antiemetics. American Family Physician. 2004 Mar 1;69(5):1169-1174. You can use carnitine supplements or coenzyme Q10 to help prevent episodes of cyclic vomiting syndrome. [33] X Expert Source Roy Nattiv, MDBoard Certified Gastroenterologist Expert Interview. 14 October 2020.
You can also take anticholinergic drugs such as the scopolamine patch to help with nausea related to these situations. [34] X Trustworthy Source FamilyDoctor. org Family-focused medical advice site run by the American Academy of Family Doctors Go to source [35] X Research source Flake Z, Scalley RD, Bailey A. Practical Selection of Antiemetics. American Family Physician. 2004 Mar 1;69(5):1169-1174. Be aware that these medications have their own significant side effects and should be used only under strict guidance by a health care professional.
Make sure to follow any dosing instructions given by your doctor. The amount you take will depend on your current situation. Stomach flu, also known as gastroenteritis, can be helped by taking bismuth subsalicylate (pepto bismol)or serotonin antagonists (ondansetron). [37] X Trustworthy Source FamilyDoctor. org Family-focused medical advice site run by the American Academy of Family Doctors Go to source [38] X Research source Flake Z, Scalley RD, Bailey A. Practical Selection of Antiemetics. American Family Physician. 2004 Mar 1;69(5):1169-1174.