Foods That Prevent Morning Sickness

Eating certain foods may help prevent morning sickness.

During the first trimester of pregnancy, the nausea called morning sickness may be a challenge for some expectant mothers. Watching what you eat and when you eat it helps alleviate the morning sickness symptoms in some women, as does avoiding some foods altogether. For most women, morning sickness is gone at about four months into the pregnancy.

Breakfast

The first hours of the day can be the most challenging time for a pregnant woman experiencing morning sickness. Starting out the day with crackers, dry toast or dry cereal as soon as you wake up puts something in your stomach immediately and can help, according to the American Pregnancy Association. As the morning progresses, eat foods high in protein and complex carbohydrates, such as yogurt, milk and cottage cheese to reduce nausea, advises MedlinePlus.

Lunch

A plain baked potato, white rice or chicken broth for lunch are nutritious and bland enough to prevent or reduce morning sickness. Eat small meals throughout the day so your stomach is never too empty or full. The American Pregnancy Association suggests drinking fluids a half-hour before or after meal and throughout the day, but not with meals.

Dinner

Many women may be accustomed to eating a large, heavy meal at dinnertime. To prevent morning sickness, continue with the concept of eating small meals as the day goes on. Cold foods, such as sandwiches, raw vegetables or salads may help. Avoid rich, spicy, greasy or fatty food, advises the American Academy of Family Physicians, and avoid foods that have an odor that makes you nauseous. Continue to eat foods high in protein and complex carbohydrates, such as peanut butter, nuts, cheese and crackers.

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