Pho is a Vietnamese noodle soup consisting of a clear, seasoned broth, rice noodles, meat, and various fresh herbs and garnishes. For someone experiencing nausea, the suitability of pho depends heavily on its specific preparation and the individual’s symptoms. While the base of the soup offers comforting benefits, common additions can easily aggravate a sensitive stomach. Making informed choices about the ingredients is necessary to turn this traditional dish into a soothing meal.
Why Pho Broth Can Soothe the Stomach
The clear, warm nature of the pho broth is its primary benefit when a person feels nauseous. Sipping warm liquids helps soothe the digestive tract and is often better tolerated than solid foods. The warmth also generates steam, which can offer temporary relief for general malaise or congestion.
Staying hydrated is important when experiencing nausea, especially if accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea, which can lead to rapid fluid loss. Broths contain water and sodium, acting as a mild source of fluids and electrolytes to help the body retain water. This simple composition is similar to other bland, recommended foods for stomach issues, such as clear broths.
Traditional pho broth often includes aromatic spices like star anise, cinnamon, and ginger. Ginger is a natural remedy for nausea, with studies suggesting its compounds can help alleviate feelings of queasiness. The subtle flavors from these spices can provide comfort and appetite stimulation without the heaviness of fat or strong acids.
Fully cooked rice noodles provide a source of easily digestible carbohydrates. These bland carbohydrates can help absorb stomach acid, which is often a factor in nausea. Choosing a simple bowl of plain broth and soft noodles provides gentle energy and hydration without taxing the digestive system.
Which Pho Ingredients Can Trigger Nausea
While the broth is generally helpful, many traditional pho components can irritate a sensitive digestive system. Meats like fatty flank steak, brisket, or tendon are high in fat, which slows down digestion. High-fat foods stimulate the release of gut hormones that can induce nausea, making them harder for a compromised stomach to process.
Garnishes and condiments, which add flavor, are often the biggest culprits for upsetting the stomach. Acidic additions, such as a squeeze of lime juice or vinegar-based sauces, can exacerbate symptoms of acid reflux, a condition closely linked to feelings of nausea. Similarly, spicy condiments like Sriracha or chili oil can irritate the gastrointestinal lining, potentially worsening discomfort.
Raw ingredients commonly served on the side should also be avoided, as their fibrous and potent nature can be difficult to manage. Raw onion slices, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs like Thai basil contain strong flavors and textures that can increase stomach irritation or trigger nausea. For a stomach trying to recover, it is best to stick to the simplest preparation, omitting all raw additions.
Tips for Eating While Feeling Sick
When consuming any food during a bout of nausea, the method of eating is as important as the food itself. It is best to eat small amounts of food frequently rather than attempting three large meals. This approach ensures the stomach is not overly stretched, which can trigger or worsen the feeling of sickness.
Sipping the broth slowly and waiting a few minutes between spoonfuls allows the stomach to adjust to the intake. The temperature should be warm, but not excessively hot, as extreme temperatures can sometimes shock a sensitive system. If the smell of the food is a trigger, it can be helpful to let the bowl cool slightly to reduce the intensity of the aroma.
After eating, remaining upright for at least 30 minutes prevents stomach contents from flowing back up into the esophagus, a common cause of nausea and heartburn. If nausea persists for more than a few days, or if it is accompanied by signs of severe dehydration, such as dizziness or little urine production, seeking medical attention is appropriate.