Feeling nauseated after eating, if it happens frequently, could be a cause for concern.
Causes of nausea span a broad spectrum of possibilities.
In most cases, these illnesses will resolve on their own within a few days.
martin-dm / Getty Images
Food Allergies
Nausea or vomiting can occur when a person experiences a mild to severe food allergy.
Anaphylaxis
Severe food allergy symptoms usually come on rapidly and can progress toanaphylaxis.
If you suspect anaphylaxis call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
GI Issues or Disorders
Certain conditions or disorders of the digestive system can cause nausea after eating.
Some conditions include:
These conditions are associated with other symptoms, like abdominal pain and vomiting.
Dietary fat can induce nausea through the release of gut hormones and peptides.
Ingestion of fat and protein stimulates the release ofcholecystokinin(CKK) from the cells in the intestine.
Indigestion may cause bloating, gas, nausea, or even vomiting.
Slowing down, watching portion size, and practicingmindful eatingare some methods to avoid inadvertent overeating.
Medications
Many medications cause nausea as a side effect.
This can produce symptoms like nausea.
Drugs used to treat cancer and pain are well-known to increase the risk of nausea.
Laxative Use
Manystimulantandosmoticover-the-counter (OTC) constipation remedieslist nausea as a possible side effect.
Stimulant laxatives induce contractions of the intestines that can be uncomfortable or complicate other conditions.
Osmotic laxatives draw water from the intestine to soften stools, which can cause electrolyte imbalance and dehydration.
Some may findpsylliumto be a better option if nausea is an issue.
Althoughpsylliummay also cause nausea in some cases, it is considered safe and gentle enough to use every day.
It is essential to take only the recommended doses of laxatives.
Larger doses can cause side effects such as nausea, cramping, and loose stools.
Both binging and purging behaviors (e.g., excessive laxative or diuretic use) can produce nausea.
Hormones
Imbalances in hormones can impact every aspect of the body.
One symptom is nausea.
In addition, those who haveendometriosiscan experience many symptoms, including nausea and bloating.
In rare cases, pregnancy can causehyperemesis gravidarum, which is extreme, persistent nausea and vomiting.
However, when possible, take small sips of water andrehydratewith products like Gatorade or Pedialyte.
Evaluate your diet, medications, medical history, and bowel habits.
You may discover that a specific food or bang out of food is causing you trouble.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Viral Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu).
Center for Disease Control and Prevention.Staphylococal (staph) food poisoning.
American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology.Food Allergy.
Bilo MB, Martini M, Tontini C, Corsi A, Antonicelli L.Anaphylaxis.Eur Ann Allergy Clin Immunol.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Symptoms & Causes of GER & GERD.
Harvard Health Publishing - Harvard Medical School.What to do when your medication causes nausea.
McRae MP.Dietary Fiber Intake and jot down 2 Diabetes Mellitus: An Umbrella Review of Meta-analyses.J Chiropr Med.
2020;33:290-297. doi:10.2337/ds19-0062
American Migraine Foundation.Menstrual migraine treatment and prevention.
UCSF Health.Diet modifications for nausea and vomiting.
