What Fruit is Anti-Sickness? A Guide to Soothing Nausea Naturally

According to a 2021 study in the BMJ Open, pregnant individuals found that apples were among the most well-tolerated foods during morning sickness. Finding what fruit is anti-sickness can offer gentle, natural relief, whether you're dealing with pregnancy-related nausea, motion sickness, or general indigestion.

Quick Summary

This guide details fruits known to help alleviate nausea and upset stomachs, such as bananas, apples, and watermelon, along with the scientifically-backed properties of ginger. It also compares the benefits of different foods and provides a comprehensive FAQ.

Key Points

• Bananas: Ideal for upset stomachs due to their bland, soft texture and ability to replenish potassium lost through vomiting.

• Apples: Contain fiber and antioxidants that help absorb and eliminate toxins, with applesauce being a core part of the soothing BRAT diet.

• Watermelon: An excellent choice for rehydration due to its high water content and pleasant, cool nature.

• Lemons: The aroma of fresh lemon is effective aromatherapy for calming nausea, particularly for morning sickness.

• Papaya: Provides the enzyme papain, which helps break down proteins and can soothe indigestion.

• Ginger: Although a root, it is a potent, scientifically-backed remedy for various types of nausea, often used in teas or candies.

• Bland and Cold Foods: Bland, low-fat, and cold foods are often better tolerated by an upset stomach due to less intense aromas and easier digestion.

Understanding the Causes of Sickness

Sickness, particularly in the form of nausea and vomiting, can stem from numerous causes, including motion sickness, pregnancy (morning sickness), food poisoning, chemotherapy, and general upset stomachs. The body's reaction often involves signals from the gut or inner ear to the central nervous system, which triggers the queasy feeling. While the triggers are varied, certain foods, particularly specific fruits, are renowned for their soothing properties that can help settle an unsettled stomach.

The Top Anti-Sickness Fruits

Bananas: The Gentle Replenisher

Often recommended as part of the BRAT (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) diet, bananas are a go-to food for an upset stomach.

• Easy to Digest: They are bland and soft, making them easy for a sensitive stomach to process without causing further irritation.
• Replenishes Electrolytes: If you have been vomiting, bananas can help replenish lost potassium, a vital electrolyte.
• Energy Restoration: The natural carbohydrates provide a quick energy boost when you might not feel like eating much else.

Apples: The Fiber-Rich Soother

Apples and particularly applesauce, are well-known for their anti-nausea effects.

• Absorbs Toxins: Apples contain fiber, which helps eliminate toxins from the digestive tract.
• BRAT Diet Component: Like bananas, applesauce is a staple of the BRAT diet, helping to firm up stools and soothe the gut.
• Antioxidant Benefits: Some research suggests antioxidants in apples may help lessen the vomiting reflex.

Watermelon: The Hydrating Refresher

During bouts of nausea, staying hydrated is critical, and watermelon is an excellent source of fluids.

• High Water Content: Comprising about 92% water, it helps to rehydrate the body, especially after vomiting.
• Easy to Tolerate: Many people find cold or chilled foods easier to tolerate when nauseous, and watermelon fits this perfectly.
• Rich in Nutrients: It provides essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamins A and C, which support the immune system.

Lemons and Citrus Fruits: The Aromatic Aid

While acidic for some, the aroma of lemons can provide significant relief from nausea.

• Aromatherapy Effects: Inhaling the scent of fresh lemon or lemon essential oil has been shown to reduce nausea, particularly during pregnancy.
• Flavoring Water: A squeeze of lemon in water can make plain water more palatable and refreshing.

Papaya: The Digestive Powerhouse

This tropical fruit contains a powerful digestive enzyme called papain.

• Breaks Down Proteins: Papain helps break down proteins, aiding digestion and potentially reducing the symptoms of indigestion.
• Anti-Inflammatory: It has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the digestive tract.

Comparison of Anti-Sickness Fruits

Feature	Bananas	Apples	Watermelon	Lemons/Citrus	Papaya
Primary Benefit	Gentle, easy to digest; restores potassium	Absorbs toxins; rich in antioxidants	Excellent hydration; cold and soothing	Aromatic relief; aids hydration	Contains digestive enzymes (papain)
:---	:---	:---	:---	:---	:---
Mechanism	Soft, bland texture and potassium content	Pectin fiber and antioxidants	High water and electrolyte content	Aromatic compounds (aromatherapy)	Papain enzyme for protein breakdown
Best For	Vomiting, electrolyte loss, sensitive stomachs	Eliminating toxins, general nausea	Dehydration, hot temperatures, general sickness	Nausea triggered by odors (e.g., morning sickness)	Indigestion, bloating, constipation
Best Preparation	Eaten raw and ripe	Raw, peeled; applesauce	Chilled or frozen	Sliced, sniffed, or added to water	Eaten raw or as a concentrate
Considerations	Can increase mucus production in some	Green apples can be acidic	Can be considered 'cooling' in nature	Acidity can worsen sore throat or reflux for some	Unripe papaya may not be suitable

Other Natural Anti-Sickness Remedies

While not technically fruits, other plant-based remedies are highly effective against sickness:

• Ginger: This root is a renowned anti-nausea remedy, widely studied for its ability to reduce symptoms from motion sickness, pregnancy, and chemotherapy. It contains compounds called gingerol and shogaol, which promote gastric emptying.
• Peppermint: The aroma of peppermint has a soothing effect, and peppermint oil has been shown to help alleviate post-surgery nausea. Sipping on cool mint tea can also be beneficial.
• Chamomile: Brewed into a mild tea, chamomile can soothe intestinal discomfort and promote relaxation.

How to Incorporate These into Your Diet

When dealing with sickness, it's best to introduce foods gradually and in small amounts. Start with bland, easy-to-digest options and observe how your body reacts. For fruits, this could mean starting with chilled banana slices or a small bowl of unsweetened applesauce. Sucking on lemon or ginger candies can provide immediate relief from nausea and is easy to carry on the go. Making a cold, bland smoothie with banana and yogurt is another excellent way to get nutrients without a strong smell or heavy texture. For severe or prolonged sickness, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and the most appropriate course of action.

Conclusion

While many plant-based foods can help manage sickness, certain fruits like bananas, apples, watermelon, and papaya offer significant relief due to their unique properties, from easy digestibility to digestive enzyme content. Aromatic aids like lemon and herbal remedies such as ginger and peppermint also provide powerful, natural anti-nausea effects. By understanding which options work best for your specific needs, you can naturally and effectively soothe your stomach. Always listen to your body and seek medical advice for persistent symptoms.

Resources for Further Reading

• Eating Well's Guide on Nausea-Fighting Foods: [https://www.eatingwell.com/article/8069696/foods-that-can-help-with-nausea/]

• Medical News Today's look at Nausea-Relieving Foods: [https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326683]

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best fruit for morning sickness?

For morning sickness, bland fruits like bananas and apples are excellent, along with the aroma of fresh lemons. Cold watermelon can also be very soothing and help with hydration.

Does ginger count as a fruit for anti-sickness?

While ginger is a root, not a fruit, it is a highly effective and well-regarded natural anti-nausea remedy. It can be consumed in tea, as crystallized ginger, or in capsules.

Why are bananas and apples good for nausea?

Bananas are gentle on the digestive system and replace lost potassium, while apples contain fiber that helps eliminate toxins from the gut. Both are part of the bland, easy-to-digest BRAT diet.

Can citrus fruits make nausea worse?

For some people, the acidity of citrus fruits like oranges can irritate an already sensitive stomach. However, the scent of lemons can be very calming, so it often depends on the individual and whether it's ingested or used as aromatherapy.

Are cold fruits better for an upset stomach?

Yes, many people find cold foods and drinks easier to tolerate when nauseous. This is because cold items tend to have less aroma, which can trigger sickness in some individuals.

Is applesauce better than whole apples for nausea?

Applesauce is often easier to digest than a whole apple with its peel. The pectin in applesauce can also help firm up stools, making it ideal for nausea associated with diarrhea.

Should I eat fruit or avoid it when sick with a stomach virus?

When you have a stomach virus, it is often recommended to stick to bland, easy-to-digest foods like bananas and applesauce. Avoid acidic or high-fiber fruits initially and focus on hydration.