For most people, preventing and treating nausea and vomiting requires both medication and food approaches.

1. Anti-nausea medication. Based on your treatment and common side effects, your doctor may prescribe medication(s) to prevent nausea before it starts. If you’ve been prescribed anti-nausea medication by your oncology team, it’s important to take it even if you feel well. If you haven’t been prescribed medication and you start to feel nauseous after treatment, it’s important to contact your Iris Care Team as soon as possible.

2. Hydration. Even though it might feel challenging to drink enough each day, staying hydrated helps to minimize nausea. Sip fluids consistently throughout the day, aiming for 8-10 (8 oz) glasses. Tired of plain water? We’ve got plenty of ideas to mix in.

3. Avoid an empty stomach. While it may feel like eating is the last thing you want to do, leaving your stomach empty can make nausea worse. But it might be uncomfortable — or even unfathomable — to eat 3 large meals per day. You’ll likely feel better if you eat a small mini meal or snack every 2-3 hours. Small amounts of dry, salty foods every couple of hours — like 2-3 saltine crackers — is better than not eating at all.

4. Consume cold foods. Refrigerated or chilled foods offer less smell, which can help keep nausea at bay. Some foods to try include: unsweetened applesauce, avocado on dry toast, cold cereal, 1 oz of hard cheese or cold chicken or turkey (thinly sliced), or tofu cubes. Keeping fresh lemons on hand — to both smell and squeeze atop foods — can also help increase tolerance to food when you’re feeling nauseated.

5. Watch Your Position. After you’ve eaten, it’s helpful to sit for at least 30 minutes to help your stomach settle rather than lying down.