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🌊 Nausea
What it is, what helps, and when to seek medical help.
General guidance only; it does not replace medical advice. Talk to your medical team before any decision about your treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Nausea: what is it and why does it happen?
Nausea is one of the most common effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. It happens because the treatment stimulates receptors in your digestive tract and brain. It does not mean you are weak or that the treatment is not working — it is a normal response from your body.
Nausea: what helps?
- Eat small portions every 2–3 hours rather than large meals.
- Choose cold or room-temperature foods — the smell of hot food can make nausea worse.
- Ginger (as tea or biscuits) can reduce nausea for many patients.
- Avoid fatty, fried or strong-smelling foods.
- Stay sitting upright for at least 30 minutes after eating.
- Keep hydrated with small, frequent sips rather than large glasses.
- Breathe deeply and slowly if the nausea comes on suddenly.
Nausea: when should you seek medical help?
Nausea lasting more than 24 hours, repeated vomiting that stops you keeping fluids down, or rapid weight loss need urgent medical contact.
When to seek help
Nausea lasting more than 24 hours, repeated vomiting that stops you keeping fluids down, or rapid weight loss need urgent medical contact.
See all warning signsRecipes that suit Nausea
13 recipes chosen for this symptom, with prep time and steps.
Ginger lemon tea
Ginger is well known for its anti-nausea effect. This tea is warm, comforting, and easy to drink.
Rice porridge with chicken breast
A comforting dish, soft in texture, easy to digest. Protein and carbohydrates in a well-tolerated form.
Mango turmeric smoothie
An anti-inflammatory smoothie with sweet mango and turmeric. Warm in color, gentle on the stomach.
Apple and carrot smoothie
A refreshing apple and carrot smoothie, lightly sweet and good for digestion.
Peach and yogurt smoothie
A delicate, fragrant smoothie made from ripe peaches, creamy thanks to the yogurt.
Pear and vanilla smoothie
A mild, aromatic smoothie, excellent for a sensitive stomach or nausea.
Clear chicken broth
The classic clear broth, hydrating and comforting. Ideal on nausea days or after chemotherapy.
Cream of cauliflower soup
A white, gentle, easy-to-tolerate soup with a velvety texture.
Steamed chicken with vegetables
Steamed chicken with soft vegetables — the gentlest way to prepare protein.
Warm milk with honey and cinnamon
A warm, soothing drink that helps with sleep and relaxation. Simple and always available.
Rice pudding
The classic creamy rice pudding, warm or cold — accepted even on difficult days.
Steamed pears with ginger
Tender steamed pears with ginger — a gentle anti-nausea dessert, soft and hydrating.
Semolina porridge with milk
Classic creamy semolina porridge, easy to swallow and gentle on the digestive tract.