Is Tuna Good for Nausea? Evaluating Its Effectiveness and Safety

Nausea is an unpleasant sensation that makes many people want to avoid food entirely. However eating certain foods can actually help relieve nausea. One food that is sometimes recommended is tuna. But is tuna really effective and safe for nausea? Let’s take a closer look.

An Overview of Using Food to Treat Nausea

Nausea has many potential causes including motion sickness, pregnancy, infections, migraine headaches, cancer treatment side effects, and more While medications can treat nausea, certain foods may also help by providing nutrients and settling the stomach

Some foods that help with nausea include

• Ginger – Contains anti-nausea compounds gingerols and shogaols. Can be consumed as tea, crystals, ale, etc.

• Broths – Provide fluids, electrolytes, and easy to digest protein.

• BRAT diet foods – Bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast are bland and gentle.

• Cold foods – Don’t emit strong odors which can trigger nausea. Try popsicles, yogurt, cottage cheese, etc.

• Protein-rich foods – Help produce digestive enzymes and provide energy. Choose plain proteins like peanut butter, eggs, baked chicken, etc.

• Crackers/pretzels – Carbs help absorb stomach acid and calm the stomach. Opt for plain, low-fat options.

So where does tuna fall in treating nausea? Let’s analyze if and how it can help.

Can Tuna Help Settle an Upset Stomach?

Tuna is sometimes recommended as a nauseated “comfort food” for several potential reasons:

Protein Content – Tuna is high in protein which helps produce digestive enzymes and stabilize blood sugar. This may aid nausea.

Plain Flavor – Solid white tuna has a relatively bland, mild flavor compared to bold or spicy foods which could further upset the stomach.

Cold Temperature – Chilled tuna from a can doesn’t emit strong smells that can trigger nausea like hot foods.

Easy Consumption – Tuna salad or a tuna sandwich provides protein in easy to eat form. No cooking required.

Nutrient Replacement – If nausea causes vomiting, tuna can help replace lost nutrients like protein, B vitamins, selenium, etc.

Calming Carbs – When paired with crackers or bread, the carbs may help absorb stomach acid and settle the gut.

So in theory, tuna contains nutrients, flavor, and properties that align with some of the best practices for nausea relief and prevention. But is it proven effective?

Does Research Support Tuna for Nausea Relief?

While tuna appears logically positioned as a food to combat nausea, there is limited direct research on its effectiveness. However, some studies provide supportive insights:

• A 2016 study found protein consumption prior to aerobic exercise reduced nausea symptoms. Tuna is a ready protein source.

• Multiple studies show incorporating protein into meals improves gastric emptying and digestion which may relieve nausea.

• Carbohydrates from tuna sandwiches have been shown to help absorption of gastric acid and acids which lead to nausea.

Additionally, tuna’s high content of selenium and B6 may help reduce nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. But more research is still needed on tuna itself for nausea relief.

Possible Concerns and Precautions with Tuna

For most people, tuna is likely a safe and potentially helpful food for managing nausea symptoms. However, there are some precautions to consider:

• Mercury levels – Consume tuna in moderation and avoid types higher in mercury like albacore if pregnant or breastfeeding.

• Allergies – Those with seafood allergies should avoid tuna.

• Upset stomach – If tuna itself makes your nausea worse, avoid it. Stick to blander proteins or carb-focused foods.

• Dehydration – Replace fluids lost from vomiting and nausea by also consuming water, broths, diluted juice, or electrolyte drinks.

• Balanced diet – Tuna alone shouldn’t comprise your full diet long-term. Incorporate other gentle, nutritious foods as able.

• Severe nausea – If vomiting persists more than 2 days or you can’t keep anything down, seek medical care. Food may not be enough.

Simple Ways to Eat Tuna for Nausea Relief

If you find tuna palatable when nauseated, here are easy recipe ideas to get those soothing tuna nutrients:

• Tuna salad – Combine canned tuna with a little mayo, lemon juice, and diced celery for a protein-packed nausea-friendly side or sandwich filling.

• Tuna melts – Top crackers or bread with tuna salad and melted cheese for extra protein, carbs, and calories when nausea strikes.

• Tuna patties – Make patties by combining canned tuna with eggs, breadcrumbs, onions, and herbs. Pan fry and enjoy with a side of rice or toast.

• Mediterranean tuna – Mix tuna with chopped cucumber, tomato, olives, feta, and fresh herbs for a chilled, Mediterranean-inspired salad.

• Tuna wraps – Wrap canned tuna in soft tortillas or flatbread with shredded lettuce, diced avocado, bean sprouts, and Italian dressing for an easy sandwich alternative.

The Verdict on Tuna for Nausea