The primary connection between coffee and nausea is that coffee is a stomach irritant and can cause stomach upset, including nausea. Some are more sensitive to this effect than others, and food consumption before drinking coffee can have an impact on stomach-related symptoms. Coffee may also raise blood pressure and cause feelings of dizziness, both of which can also lead to nausea if not treated. Additional stomach upset may also occur, and can include heartburn and diarrhea.

Most of the connections between coffee and nausea have to do with the fact that coffee contains high levels of caffeine. This can lead to stomach irritation, dizziness, heart palpitations, and raised blood pressure. Each of these things individually can result in nausea in some people, and symptoms may be worse with they are combined. Some people can tolerate coffee consumption better than others, and there are many factors which may increase or decrease the effects of coffee.

Some people may have an empty stomach while drinking coffee, which can result in nausea. When there are no other contents to buffer the effects of the acidic nature of the coffee, increased stomach upset can occur. For this reason, it is a good idea to only drink coffee with a meal or directly before or after a meal. Eating will also decrease the likelihood of feeling woozy or dizzy and may help keep blood pressure at bay.

Coffee and nausea are also related because the high caffeine content can lead to dehydration. Becoming too dehydrated is a major risk factor for nausea. When drinking a coffee beverage, it is a good idea to have a glass of water for every cup of coffee consumed. Aside from keeping the body hydrated and reducing the risk of nausea, water can also provide an energy boost and additional coffee may not be needed.

The strength of the brew may also play a part in both the effects of coffee and nausea symptoms. Strongly brewed coffees and darker roasts will increase the effects because these varieties contain greater amounts of caffeine. The strength can be reduced by adding more water and fewer beans or combining larger amounts of milk to coffee to dilute it further. Drinking a decaffeinated variety may also help.

There are coffee blends that are specially made for those with stomach issues. They are designed to be gentler on the digestive system and cause fewer bouts of nausea and other symptoms. Most grocery stores carry them, and different manufacturers may have their own gentle blends.