Foods That Fight Nausea During Pregnancy

Nausea is a common symptom during pregnancy that can be difficult to deal with. Although it's usually referred to as "morning sickness," it can occur at any time of the day or even throughout the entire day. 

One of the best ways to manage nausea is to regulate your eating habits to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

The reason?

A dip in blood sugar can cause a sudden increase in nausea, which is why many people experience it in the morning. Eating small, protein-rich snacks throughout the day can help stabilize blood sugar levels and manage nausea.

7 Best Foods for Pregnancy Nausea

Here are some good options that can help fight nausea during pregnancy:

Lemon: Adding some lemon to your water can help, and even just licking a lemon when nausea hits. You can also try smelling lemon essential oil.

Salty crackers: Keeping salty crackers, such as saltines, at your bedside table can be a lifesaver. Add in a handful of almonds or nuts for some protein.

Ginger: Ginger is commonly used in Chinese medicine for nausea relief. Try ginger-infused popsicles, crystallized ginger candy, or ginger snaps. You can also add some fresh ginger to your recipes.

Cold Foods: Warm foods often have a more pungent smell, which can trigger nausea in pregnancy because your senses are very heightened. On tough days, try sticking to cold foods.

Protein: As mentioned before, protein is key! Some great high-protein food options include:

• Cottage cheese

• Greek yogurt

• Beans

• Meat

• Nuts

• Protein bars and shakes

Remember to check that any dairy products you consume are pasteurized.

Toast and Potatoes: Some people swear by plain, dry foods such as whole wheat toast, potatoes in any form, rice and bagels.

Broth: Broth is an easy thing to eat, and it also contains electrolytes to help prevent dehydration, a common side effect of throwing up. Electrolytes contain sodium and potassium; these essential minerals help keep blood volume up and flowing smoothly, which can prevent dehydration and nausea.

Tea and Drinks for Pregnancy Nausea

Ginger tea is a popular choice for nausea relief during pregnancy. You can also try peppermint or chamomile tea, both of which have soothing properties that can help ease nausea. 

Drinking water or clear liquids frequently throughout the day can also help prevent dehydration, which can worsen nausea. It's best to avoid drinks that are high in sugar or caffeine, such as soda and coffee, as they can worsen nausea and cause dehydration.

Foods that May Trigger Nausea

Pregnant women should avoid foods that are spicy, greasy, or fried, as these can worsen nausea. It's also recommended to avoid foods that are high in fat or sugar, as they can cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Plus, these foods provide zero nutrients to you and your little one, so it's best to avoid them altogether. 

Be sure to steer clear of foods with strong smells or flavors, as this may trigger nausea and always avoid foods that are not properly cooked or handled, as they can cause foodborne illnesses.

Find Support During Your Pregnancy Journey

In addition to providing tips on foods that fight nausea during pregnancy, we have a vast library of resources that you can browse through to find answers to any of your top pregnancy-related questions. 

If you're interested in learning more about our maternity care and midwife services, please contact us for a consultation.