What are dietary adjustments and lifestyle changes to prevent vomiting after every meal?

Stomach pain

This is a sharp or cramping pain in the abdominal area, which is reported by approximately 19% of individuals with rumination disorder.

Bloating

About 17% of patients experience a feeling of fullness or swelling in the area of the abdomen, often accompanied by a distended belly.

Weight loss

12% of individuals with rumination disorder have an unintentional loss of weight due to inadequate food intake and nutrient absorption.

Nausea

Unease in the stomach often precedes vomiting and regular expulsion of stomach contents after meals, which can be severe and distressing.

Dehydration

Symptoms may include dry mouth, dizziness, and reduced urine output, resulting from frequent vomiting and insufficient fluid intake.

Fatigue

Persistent tiredness or weakness, due to inadequate nutrient absorption and the physical strain of undergoing frequent vomiting episodes.

Food intolerances and allergies

The digestive system reacts adversely to some types of food which may cause uneasiness and sickness followed by throwing up. Known intolerances are lactose and gluten. If the body can’t digest or tolerate these foods well, it may make a person feel sick and vomit soon after eating.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD happens when acid from the stomach regularly gets into the oesophagus, it irritates and causes inflammation there. A person might experience acid reflux, which can make them feel a burning sensation and bring stomach contents into their mouth which results in vomiting after meals. 

Gastritis

Inflammation in the lining of the stomach, which can happen because of infection, using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for an extensive time or excessive alcohol consumption. The inflammation can cause stomach pain, bloating, nausea, and vomiting, particularly after eating.

Peptic ulcers

Peptic ulcers are open sores that form on the inside of your stomach’s lining, small intestine, or even oesophagus, usually due to infection with bacteria or prolonged use of certain medications. Peptic ulcers can cause pain and discomfort, leading to nausea and vomiting after meals 

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a common disorder in the gastrointestinal tract that brings symptoms like pain or chronic cramps in the stomach area, bloating and alterations in bowel movements and consistency. Digestion conditions linked with IBS can lead to feelings of nausea and vomiting after eating.

Stress and anxiety

High stress levels can disrupt normal digestive processes and trigger nausea, especially after the consumption of meals. Emotional stress and anxiety can affect the digestive system functions eventually leading to symptoms such as mood swings, trauma, bloating, nausea, and vomiting.

Gastric emptying disorders

Gastrointestinal conditions like gastroparesis, where the stomach empties its contents too slowly, can cause persistent nausea and vomiting. When food stays stagnant in the stomach for long periods it can lead to feelings of fullness, uneasiness, bloating, and vomiting after meals.

Lifestyle decisions 

The intake of large or heavy meals, eating too quickly, irregular eating patterns and high caffeine, and alcohol intake can contribute to persistent vomiting. Addressing these causes typically involves a combination of dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments, and medical intervention.

Eat smaller, frequent meals

Large meals can overwhelm your digestive system, leading to nausea and vomiting; therefore it would be best to opt for 5-6 small meals throughout the day instead of 3 large ones.

Avoid trigger foods

Maintaining a food journal can help identify and avoid foods that cause gastrointestinal discomfort, most common triggers include spicy, fatty, or heavily processed foods.

Stay hydrated but in moderation

Dehydration can worsen nausea, but drinking too much water meals can contribute to vomiting. Consider drinking fluids during meals and aim for small sips if you feel dehydrated.

Eat slowly and chew thoroughly

Eating quickly can lead to indigestion and nausea. Take your time to chew food thoroughly and savour each bite, this helps with better digestion and reduces the risk of vomiting. 

Choose bland, easy-to-digest foods

Bland foods are less likely to irritate your stomach. Incorporate foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast into your meals. Avoid rich, greasy, or heavily spiced foods.

Incorporate ginger or peppermint

Ginger and peppermint are known for their anti-nausea properties. For persistent vomiting try ginger tea, ginger ale, peppermint tea, or peppermint candies to soothe your stomach.

Avoid lying down immediately after eating

Lying down can exacerbate nausea and lead to symptoms of acid reflux. Wait at least 30 minutes before lying down and when you must rest, try elevating your stance up with pillows.

Limit caffeine and alcohol intake

Caffeine and alcohol irritate the stomach and increase the risk of vomiting. Reduce consumption of caffeinated beverages and alcohol. Opt for water, teas, or diluted fruit juices.

Manage stress and anxiety

Stress and anxiety can trigger gastrointestinal symptoms. Consider engaging in stress-relief activities such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, or physical activity.

Maintain a regular eating schedule

Irregular eating patterns can disrupt your digestive system and exacerbate symptoms of vomiting. Stick to a consistent meal schedule to help regulate your digestive processes.