Nausea & Vomiting
By Louise Tenney

 

Nausea occurs often in babies and young children.
It is usually a symptom rather than an actual illness. It may begin with cramps or pain, a loss of appetite, or fatigue. Vomiting or diarrhea may occur after the initial pain.

Causes
Nausea and vomiting can be caused by many physical and emotional problems.
Infants may vomit with any imbalance in their systems such as an infection.
It may be the sign of a serious problem and should be watched carefully.

Older children may get nauseated and vomit for a variety of reasons as motion sickness, eating rich foods, overeating, food poisoning, fatigue, constipation, infection, appendicitis, food allergies, nervousness, homesickness, or anger.
Vomiting is one means that the body has of eliminating toxins and mucus the stomach.
Emotional problems can often be a reason for nausea. A new sibling, tension in the home, divorce, and anticipation of an upcoming trip or holiday can cause nausea.

Home Care

• If the problem seems to be emotional in nature, allow the child to talk and discuss their concerns either with a parent, mature adult friend, therapist, school counselor or religious leader.

• Be aware of the possibility of dehydration, especially in babies, and offer clear fluids.

• A hot water bottle may help relieve stomach discomfort.

Dietary Guidelines

• Fluids should be given to avoid dehydration. Infants and young children can become dehydrated easily with vomiting and diarrhea. Sipping fluids or sucking on ice chips or a fruit popsicle can help. Pure water, fruit juice or real teas can be given.

• Clear liquids can be given when vomiting occurs to replace some of the lost fluid. The child will ask for food when they are ready. Soft bland foods should be offered first such as applesauce, organic yogurt, dry toast, or home made vegetable soup.

• Brown Rice water is nutritious and healing.

Nutritional Supplements
• Acidophilus and Bifidophilus:
This helps to encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestinal tract and aids in digestion.

• Chlorophyll
These can help clean the stomach and nourish the body.

Herbal Supplements
• Ginger
Ginger in capsule or tea form is soothing on the stomach and helps relieve nausea.
• Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera juice can help a sour stomach.
• Chamomile
Chamomile tea helps relax the child an soothe the stomach.
• Alfalfa
Alfalfa will provide nourishment, and calm an strengthen the stomach.
An herbal extract formula containing Scullcap, Passion Flower, Wild Yam,
• Valerian, Myrrh Gum or other relaxants, help to calm the nerves.