How can I help prevent nausea during pregnancy?

Eating small meals may help with “morning sickness,” which is often worse when your stomach is empty. Morning sickness is not limited to mornings, and nausea can occur day or night, often accompanied by vomiting.

If you have morning sickness, there are some dietary steps you can take to feel better. It can help to keep some starch, such as Melba toast, rice or popcorn cakes, or saltines or other low-fat crackers, close at hand to eat if you become nauseated. Some women find it helpful to eat a small snack at bedtime or before they get up in the morning to prevent morning sickness.

Help with Nausea

• Eat dry crackers or toast before rising.
• Eat small meals every 2 1/2–3 hours.
• Avoid caffeine.
• Avoid fatty and high-sodium foods.
• Drink fluids between meals, not with meals.
• Take prenatal vitamins after dinner or at bedtime.
• Always carry food with you.
• Talk with your health care team. They may have helpful suggestions. Also tell them about any herbs or supplements you may be using. These may make nausea worse.