Why Hydration Matters When You're Vomiting
When experiencing vomiting, preventing dehydration is critical. Vomiting removes not only fluids, but also essential electrolytes, like sodium and potassium. These are essential for the body to function correctly. Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, reduced urination, dizziness, and extreme thirst. Replacing lost fluids and minerals is the primary aim of what you should drink when feeling sick. Delaying rehydration can worsen symptoms and cause complications. It's essential to begin cautiously as soon as you can tolerate fluids.
Recommended Drinks to Soothe Vomiting
Here are the most effective drinks for settling an upset stomach and dehydration:
- Ginger Tea: Ginger root is a traditional remedy for nausea and indigestion. Its compounds, gingerol and shogaol, can calm stomach muscles and reduce nausea. Make a tea by boiling fresh, peeled ginger slices in water and straining. Pre-packaged tea bags are also available, but fresh root often provides a more potent brew. Add a little honey for extra flavor, if tolerated.
- Peppermint Tea: The cooling properties of peppermint can help relax gastrointestinal muscles, which can help alleviate nausea. Peppermint tea is widely available. Simply steeping fresh or dried peppermint leaves in hot water can provide significant relief.
- Electrolyte Drinks: Sports drinks (Gatorade, Powerade) and commercial electrolyte solutions (Pedialyte) are designed to replace lost electrolytes and fluids. Opt for clear, non-caffeinated versions and dilute them with water to avoid a sugar overload. Coconut water is another natural, electrolyte-rich alternative.
- Clear Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth can gently replenish fluids and sodium, often lost during vomiting. It provides nourishment that's easy on the stomach. Serving it at room temperature or slightly warm can be soothing.
- Lemon Water: Lemon's refreshing scent and neutralizing properties can help reduce nausea. Add fresh lemon juice to water and sip slowly. Some find smelling a lemon or sucking on a wedge helpful.
- Rice Water: The water left over from cooking rice has been used to soothe the stomach. It's bland, providing hydration and carbohydrates in a mild form.
How to Drink Fluids Correctly When You're Sick
Sipping liquids correctly is as important as choosing the right drinks. Follow these best practices:
- Wait and Rest: After vomiting, wait about two hours before drinking anything. This gives the stomach time to settle, and it reduces the risk of another episode.
- Take Small Sips: Do not gulp down a large glass of liquid, as this can overwhelm a sensitive stomach. Start with very small, slow sips, and increase the amount as you feel able.
- Use a Straw: Some people find sipping through a straw helps control the intake speed, making it easier to tolerate fluids.
- Consider Ice: If small sips are difficult, try sucking on ice chips or frozen juice chips. This provides hydration slowly and can be soothing.
Comparison of Drinks for Nausea
| Drink | Primary Benefit | Electrolytes | Sugar | Best For... |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ginger Tea | Calms stomach muscles | Low | Adjustable | Natural nausea relief |
| Peppermint Tea | Relaxes GI tract | Low | None (unsweetened) | Soothing an upset stomach |
| Electrolyte Drinks | Replaces lost fluids and minerals | High | High (dilute) | Preventing dehydration |
| Clear Broth | Replenishes fluids and sodium | Moderate | None | Gentle rehydration and nourishment |
| Lemon Water | Neutralizes stomach acid | Low | None (unsweetened) | Easing queasiness |
| Rice Water | Easy to digest | Low | Low | A very gentle option |
Beverages to Avoid with an Upset Stomach
Knowing what to avoid is as important as knowing what to drink. Some beverages can irritate the digestive system:
- Caffeinated Drinks: Avoid coffee, black tea, and energy drinks. Caffeine is a diuretic and stomach irritant, worsening dehydration and nausea.
- Alcoholic Beverages: Alcohol irritates the gut and causes dehydration, aggravating vomiting.
- High-Sugar Beverages: While flat soda may help, drinks with high sugar can be difficult to process and may upset the stomach.
- Dairy Products: Milk and dairy products can be hard to digest and should be avoided.
- Acidic Fruit Juices: While lemon water is tolerated, juices like orange juice can be harsh on a sensitive stomach. If you choose juice, opt for a diluted, non-citrus variety.
Conclusion: Listen to Your Body and Drink Wisely
What drink stops vomiting depends on the individual and the cause. Start with small, slow sips of a clear liquid that is gentle on the stomach. For many, ginger or peppermint tea can soothe nausea, while electrolyte drinks or clear broth prevent dehydration. Always listen to your body and introduce fluids and bland foods gradually. If vomiting is persistent, severe, or has other serious symptoms, seek medical advice. Staying hydrated is the priority for recovery, and choosing the right fluid is the first step toward feeling better. For more information on severe nausea, consult a medical resource like MedlinePlus.
