Natural Ways to Deal with Nausea Caused by Chemotherapy

March 17th, 2021 | Cancer

Chemotherapy can be exhausting.

On the worst days, it can feel like all the life in your body has been drained out. On the best days, you still will deal with side effects that can cause pain and discomfort. One of the most common side effects of chemotherapy is nausea. Nausea can vary in severity, but at any level, it’s still uncomfortable. Here are some natural ways to deal with nausea caused by chemotherapy.

Ginger Drops and Teas

Ginger is a root that has been used for centuries for its stomach-settling properties. Ginger root contains gingerol which can be used as a natural way to calm the stomach. Gingerol is an anti-inflammatory that can help reduce swelling in and around the stomach.

Ginger can be eaten directly, but it is best to use a reduced or extracted form, so you can be sure you are getting as much of the gingerol as possible. Ginger drops are a great option. They taste great and can help reduce the discomfort caused by chemotherapy. Ginger tea is also a great way to consume ginger. The tea can be calming, and the warmth can be comforting.

Peppermint

Peppermint is another natural way to reduce nausea that can come with chemotherapy. Peppermint drops can calm the stomach and freshen your breath at the same time. Tea made from peppermint leaves is another effective option to deal with nausea from chemotherapy. Drinking a cup in the morning can help settle your stomach and keep you feeling comfortable all day long. You will want to make sure that you are using real peppermint and not just peppermint flavoring. Peppermint flavoring is usually used in sugar-filled candy. A lot of sugar can add to your discomfort and upset your stomach more.

Frequent Meals

Much of the discomfort from nausea comes from too much pressure in your belly. When you eat small meals frequently throughout the day, your stomach will have an easier time emptying. This will make your stomach feel more relaxed because it will keep your stomach from extending and pushing on the rest of your abdomen. Focus on foods that are best for nausea.

High Protein Meals

Although it may seem counterintuitive, it is important to eat when you are feeling nauseous. Small meals of food high in protein can help nausea throughout the day. Protein can make you feel less bloated. Proteins will fill you up without putting excess pressure on the walls of your stomach. This will ease the discomfort of nausea by minimizing the pressure in your abdomen.

Hydrate

Drinking plenty of water is always a good thing to do. Drinking water will help calm your stomach. As the water enters your stomach, your stomach acid becomes less harsh. It will also make it easier for your stomach to empty, keeping you less stuffed. Water can also help lubricate your organs so they will not cramp and cause you to feel more discomfort. Drinking a few glasses right away in the morning can help your body fight against nausea caused by chemotherapy.

Talk To Someone

Talking is therapeutic. We always feel better after a good evening with friends. As a cancer patient, it is important to forge those relationships that will help us to get through the challenges in our lives. If your friends need to know how they can support a friend struggling through cancer, send them our article on how to support you.

Learn more on our FAQs on Nausea.