Protein and Ginger for the Treatment of Chemotherapy-Induced Delayed Nausea

ABSTRACT Background: Nausea that develops during the period that begins 24 hours after the administration of chemotherapy is called delayed nausea, and occurs in many patients with cancer. Meals high in protein decrease the nausea of motion sickness and pregnancy, possibly by reducing gastric dysrhythmias. Ginger also has antinausea properties. Objectives: To explore the use of protein meals with ginger for the treatment of the delayed nausea of chemotherapy. Design: Twenty-eight (28) patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy for the first time were assigned to 1 of 3 groups. For 3 days beginning the day after their chemotherapy, Control Group patients continued with their normal diet, Protein Group patients consumed a protein drink and ginger twice daily, and High Protein Group patients consumed a protein drink with additional protein and ginger twice daily. Outcome measures: Patients recorded in a diary each day whether they had experienced nausea, whether their nausea had been frequent, whether their...