Feeling queasy is a common and unpleasant experience that can be caused by various factors, from motion sickness to a stomach bug or morning sickness. While resting your body is important, knowing what to drink can make a significant difference in how you manage your symptoms and feel better faster. The right fluids not only provide soothing relief but also prevent dehydration, a serious risk if vomiting is involved. Sips of certain beverages, particularly those with herbal properties or replenishing electrolytes, can help settle your stomach without overwhelming it.
Herbal Teas for Soothing Your Stomach
Herbal teas are one of the most classic and effective remedies for calming a rebellious stomach. They offer warmth, hydrating liquid, and potent compounds from the herbs that can help relax your digestive system.
Ginger Tea
Ginger has a long and proven history as a natural anti-nausea remedy. Its active compounds, gingerols and shogaols, interact with the central nervous system and stomach to relieve nausea symptoms.
To make fresh ginger tea:
- Wash and thinly slice a 1-inch piece of fresh ginger root.
- Bring 1-2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add the sliced ginger, cover, and reduce heat to a simmer for 15-20 minutes for maximum potency.
- Strain the liquid into a mug. Add a slice of lemon or a touch of honey to taste, if desired.
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint's refreshing aroma and active compounds like menthol can help relax the digestive muscles, providing relief from queasiness, bloating, and gas. Sipping on warm or even iced peppermint tea can have a calming effect.
Note: People with acid reflux should use caution, as peppermint can sometimes relax the valve between the stomach and esophagus, potentially worsening heartburn.
Chamomile Tea
Known for its calming properties, chamomile tea can help reduce nausea by relaxing the muscles of the digestive tract and soothing the nervous system. This makes it an excellent choice for nausea linked to stress or anxiety.
Lemon Water
Simply sniffing the scent of a freshly cut lemon can sometimes help alleviate nausea. Adding a slice or a few squeezes of lemon juice to cold or warm water can provide a mild and refreshing drink that may help. The neutralizing acids in lemons can form bicarbonates that help settle the stomach.
Hydrating and Replenishing Fluids
When nausea is accompanied by vomiting, dehydration is a serious risk. Replenishing fluids and electrolytes is the top priority.
Plain Water and Ice Chips
Often the simplest remedy is the best. Small, frequent sips of cold water are easy to tolerate and help with hydration. If water is too difficult to keep down, sucking on ice chips or frozen popsicles can be an excellent way to rehydrate slowly.
Electrolyte Solutions
These drinks are crucial for replacing lost sodium and potassium, especially after severe or prolonged vomiting or diarrhea. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) like Pedialyte are specifically formulated for optimal absorption. Sports drinks like Gatorade also contain electrolytes but can be high in sugar, which might worsen diarrhea for some.
Clear Broths
Chicken or vegetable broth can be very soothing on the stomach and provides both hydration and essential minerals. Broths are a gentle way to introduce nutrients and fluids back into your system.
The Truth About Commercial Ginger Ale
Many people turn to commercial ginger ale as a remedy for nausea, but it's important to understand why this tradition may not be as effective as believed. Most commercial brands contain very little, if any, real ginger and are instead full of sugar and artificial flavoring. The carbonation and sugar may actually worsen your symptoms by causing gas and bloating or contributing to diarrhea. The mild, placebo-like comfort may be a factor, but for genuine, potent relief, real ginger tea is a far better option.
Comparison of Anti-Nausea Beverages
| Beverage | Primary Benefit | Best For | Potential Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh Ginger Tea | Actively reduces nausea and aids digestion. | Motion sickness, morning sickness, post-chemo nausea. | Strong taste, potential for heartburn in high doses. |
| Peppermint Tea | Soothes stomach muscles and relieves gas. | Indigestion, stress-related nausea. | Can trigger acid reflux in sensitive individuals. |
| Electrolyte Solutions | Replaces lost fluids and minerals after vomiting. | Stomach flu, severe vomiting/diarrhea. | Some commercial versions are high in sugar. |
| Clear Broth | Provides hydration, electrolytes, and gentle nutrients. | Recovery from stomach flu, transitioning back to solid foods. | Low-calorie, may need additional salt. |
| Commercial Ginger Ale | Mild comfort due to fizz and flavor. | Temporary relief, placebo effect. | High sugar, artificial flavors, lacks real ginger benefits. |
Best Practices for Drinking When Nauseous
- Sip Slowly: Gulping a large amount of liquid at once can trigger more nausea or vomiting. Start with a few teaspoons and increase gradually as tolerated.
- Chill Your Drinks: Cold fluids may be easier to stomach and less aromatic, which can be helpful if smells are a trigger. Sucking on ice chips is an excellent strategy.
- Stay Upright: Lying down immediately after drinking can increase feelings of nausea, especially with acid reflux. Stay seated or upright for at least 30 minutes after consuming liquids.
- Avoid Triggers: Limit or avoid highly acidic juices (like orange), caffeine, and alcohol, as these can irritate the stomach lining and worsen symptoms.
- Space Out Fluids: Drink fluids between meals rather than with them to avoid feeling too full, which can exacerbate nausea.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While home remedies and dietary adjustments can be very effective for mild, temporary nausea, it's important to know when to see a doctor. You should consult a healthcare provider if:
- Nausea and vomiting persist for more than 24 hours.
- You show signs of severe dehydration, such as infrequent urination, dizziness, or confusion.
- Your vomit contains blood.
- You have a high fever or severe abdominal pain alongside the nausea.
- You are pregnant and experiencing severe, persistent nausea and vomiting, which could indicate hyperemesis gravidarum.
Conclusion
For those wondering what to drink to calm down nausea, the options are varied and effective, ranging from potent herbal teas to simple hydrating solutions. Focusing on real, natural ingredients like ginger and peppermint, while prioritizing hydration with water, broths, and electrolyte drinks, can provide significant relief. By sipping slowly and choosing the right fluids, you can soothe your stomach and begin to feel better. Always pay attention to your body's specific needs, and don't hesitate to contact a healthcare professional if your symptoms are severe or persistent. For further reading on managing digestive issues, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases provides reliable information at NIDDK.nih.gov.
