Why Do I Feel Sick After I Eat? - Causes for Nausea After Eating

Nothing ruins the excitement of a good, homemade meal like the impending doom of feeling queasy afterward. The occasional case of heartburn is one thing, but if you always feel sick after eating, there's a good chance an underlying health issue is to blame. Below, a doctor weighs in on what your nausea after eating might mean, associated symptoms, and when to see a doctor about it.

Causes of nausea after eating

"Nausea is a symptom that can occur due to many underlying root causes, but if it specifically occurs after eating, it likely is due to abnormalities in the gastrointestinal system," explains Hugh Humphery, M.D., functional medicine practitioner and Everlywell advisor. Other potential causes, he adds, are mental health-related. Some of these common disruptive conditions are:

Acid reflux and GERD

Acid reflux happens when stomach acids bubble up into your esophagus and throat, often after eating. The occasional bout—especially after eating spicy foods—is expected, but if you're experiencing it regularly, you could have what's known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can also come with nausea and bloating. Food sensitivities and a "leaky gut" or intestinal permeability are additional possible complicating factors, adds Dr. Humphery.

Anxiety and stress

"Anxiety, depression, or intense stress can also result in a loss of appetite and nausea after eating," says Dr. Humphery. Everyone has different physical reactions to the body entering "fight or flight" mode, and research shows that the stress and anxiety have direct effect on colonic movements and how hormone interact with the GI tract. Other symptoms that may coincide with this type of upset stomach are fatigue, muscle aches, and restlessness, Dr. Humphery says.

Gastritis

Dr. Humphery says gastritis is characterized by inflammation of the stomach lining, which, according to the Mayo Clinic, may also come with abdominal pain, nausea, and a sensation of fullness in the upper abdomen after eating. "If vomiting occurs for more than 24 hours or there are signs of dehydration or serious illness such as high fever, one should consult their doctor immediately," Dr. Humphery adds.

Ulcer

An ulcer is an open sore that develops on the stomach's inner lining, and can cause nausea, heartburn, stomach pain, bloating, and an intolerance of fatty foods, per the Mayo Clinic. Dr. Humphery says it, therefore, can be linked to nausea after eating.

Viral infection

If you've ever had a stomach bug and struggled to keep any food down, you've experienced this specific type of post-meal nausea. This is commonly known as the stomach flu and also often comes with diarrhea, cramping, and fever, per the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

Hormonal changes

Hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy, can cause nausea after eating, says Dr. Humphery.

Food allergies or intolerances

This may seem like an obvious one, but food allergies can cause adverse reactions, including nausea, Dr. Humphery explains. They may also come with skin discomfort and itching, he adds.

Treatments for nausea after eating

"The cause of your nausea will determine how you treat and prevent it," says Dr. Humphery. "Consider keeping a food diary if you commonly experience nausea after eating and aren't sure of the cause." He also recommends getting fresh air, deep breathing meditation, taking an over-the-counter antacid like TUMS, and avoiding intense physical activity after a meal.

To prevent feeling uneasy in the first place, he suggests eating and drinking more slowly, avoiding spicy, fried, and greasy foods, and eating small meals spread out throughout the day rather than two or three larger ones.

When to see a doctor

"If your nausea does not go away within a week, call your doctor to discuss your symptoms," says Dr. Humphery. "If your nausea is accompanied by blood in your vomit or stool, high fever, chest pain, extreme thirst and jaundice, or yellowing in the eyes or skin, you should contact your doctor immediately."

Kayla Blanton is a freelance writer who reports on all things health and nutrition for Men's Health, Women's Health, and Prevention. Her hobbies include perpetual coffee sipping and pretending to be a Chopped contestant while cooking.

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