The good news is that there may be several foods for nausea relief right from your kitchen shelves. When it comes to Indian food, there are plenty of spices, fruit and holistic approaches available to you. Let's check out some of them.
In this article:
1. Ginger (Adrak)
Ginger is a unique, trustworthy remedy for nausea. It consists of natural compounds, gingerols, and shogaols, which work to calm the stomach and reduce the urge to vomit.Just chew a thin slice of fresh ginger or sip on some ginger tea. Another option would be to put this in some lemon water. Even simple ginger candies or lozenges could give a sense of relief.
Tip: Add a small amount of grated ginger to warm dal or soup. This works against nausea and also promotes digestion.
2. Lemon (Nimbu)
Lemon, being refreshing, serves to instantly calm a queasy stomach. The citrus aroma and tangy taste work against nausea and vomiting.If you've been vomiting frequently, sip nimbu paani (lemon water with slight sugar and salt content) to replenish your lost electrolytes. You could even inhale the scent of the cut lemon as nausea hits.
Tip: Combine lemon juice with honey and warm water to make a soothing drink.
3. Curd (Dahi)
Curd cools and is gentle on the stomach, making it a great option when you don't feel well. It restores gut balance with its probiotics and settles down the nausea from indigestion.You can have plain dahi, whip up a refreshing chaas (buttermilk) or add it to rice for a light meal that isn't too heavy.
Tip: Avoid too sour curd if it adds to your acidity.
4. Mint (Pudina)
Mint leaves are soothing and have a refreshing nature that calms the stomach muscles. Drinking pudina tea or simply chewing mint leaves can help control the nausea as well.You can also make pudina chutney using coriander, lemon and a small amount of salt. This chutney can either be eaten with light snacks or served with rice to give a refreshing hint of mint.
Tip: You may also enjoy slowly sipping from a glass of mint-infused water throughout the day.
5. Cumin Seeds (Jeera)
Cumin is recommended as a traditional Indian herb for digestive ailments, including nausea. The various natural compounds found in cumin can lessen bloating and soothe your stomach.Drinking jeera water (made by boiling jeera seeds and straining) is effective for quick relief. Jeera powder sprinkled on fruits and vegetables, or in buttermilk, is also effective.
Tip: If you roast the cumin seeds lightly first, before boiling, the flavour is enhanced.
6. Bananas
Bananas are easy to digest, beneficial for the stomach, and a great source of potassium. It helps recover the nutrients lost while vomiting. Bananas also provide quick energy, which can be especially helpful when nausea leaves you feeling drained.Tip: Enjoy a ripe banana as a snack or add one to a light milkshake.
7. Coconut Water (Nariyal Paani)
Dehydration can make nausea worse, and coconut water is a natural way to stay hydrated and refreshed. Coconut water is light, refreshing and loaded with electrolytes such as potassium and sodium.Sipping on some coconut water slowly can not only relieve nausea, but also make you feel energised as well.
Tip: Opt for fresh tender coconut water.
8. Fennel Seeds (Saunf)
The flavour of fennel seeds is gently liquorice-like, which helps avoid nausea and promotes digestion. Many pregnant individuals have found relief by chewing a teaspoon of roasted fennel after meals.You can boil fennel seeds in water, then strain them and sip them hot.
Tip: Combine fennel seeds with a little mishri (rock sugar), and it serves as a pleasing mouth refresher.
9. Apples
Apples are rich in fibre and gentle on the stomach. Eating a fresh apple or sipping apple juice can relieve nausea while keeping your blood sugar stable.Tip: If raw apples feel too heavy, try eating baked or stewed apples instead.
10. Light Khichdi and Rice-Based Meals
Heavy or spicy foods can make nausea worse at times. Trying light and easy-to-digest Indian foods, such as moong dal khichdi or plain curd rice, can help settle your stomach. These foods give you some energy and nutrition without overworking your stomach.Tip: A small amount of ghee can add taste and improve digestion.
Nausea can be one of the most challenging aspects of pregnancy, but simple remedies from your kitchen can help alleviate it. Ingredients like ginger, lemon, mint, cumin, curd, coconut water, and other common Indian foods are safe, natural, and effective in easing nausea.
Making wise choices to eat light meals and snacks can be supportive to your body and help make your pregnancy more enjoyable. Keep in mind that every individual's body is different. Take note of what works for you and never hesitate to consult your doctor if nausea becomes a problem.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on Indian Foods That Help Ease Nausea in Pregnancy
- Is it safe to consume ginger daily during pregnancy?
Intake of a small amount of ginger is safe and aids in nausea. Consuming more ginger, especially raw, can be harmful, so take in small amounts, such as ginger tea or grated ginger in food. - Can curd or buttermilk exacerbate nausea?
Most individuals find it helpful to have curd and buttermilk to help with the nausea, but if you have acidity or sensitivities to lactose, they may worsen your discomfort. Instead, eating bland light foods such as bananas or eating rice can work. - When should I see a doctor for nausea in pregnancy?
If nausea is severe, preventing you from keeping down any food or fluids, or results in dehydration and weight loss, immediately see a doctor. This condition can be referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and requires medical treatment.
