What lifestyle and dietary modifications can I suggest to a patient experiencing hyperemesis gravidarum?

Lifestyle and dietary modifications for a patient experiencing hyperemesis gravidarum include:

• Encourage rest as fatigue can worsen symptoms, and advise avoiding sensory stimuli such as strong odours, heat, and noise that may trigger nausea ¹.
• Recommend small, frequent meals that are protein-rich and low in carbohydrate and fat to help prevent hypoglycaemia and gastric overdistension ¹.
• Suggest cold meals if nausea is related to smell, as they may be better tolerated ¹.
• Advise drinking fluids little and often rather than large amounts at once to maintain hydration ¹.
• Consider acupressure (e.g., over the P6 point on the wrist) as an adjunct treatment for moderate-to-severe symptoms ¹,².
• Avoid recommending ginger for hyperemesis gravidarum as evidence shows it may worsen symptoms and damage clinician-patient trust in severe cases ¹.
• Avoid medications that may exacerbate symptoms, such as iron-containing preparations, based on clinical judgement ¹.
• Provide reassurance and support, and advise on sources of information and peer support groups ¹.