What causes nausea after eating watermelon?

Feeling nauseous after eating watermelon may be caused by dietary irritation or conditions such as acute gastroenteritis or gastrointestinal viral infection. It is recommended to visit a hospital for examination and diagnosis to determine the exact cause.

1. Dietary Irritation

Watermelon is considered a cooling food, especially when taken straight from the refrigerator. Consuming large amounts may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as nausea or the urge to vomit after eating watermelon.

2. Acute Gastroenteritis

Poor dietary hygiene or consuming contaminated or moldy foods—such as leftover or spoiled watermelon—may lead to acute gastroenteritis. This condition can cause nausea after eating watermelon and may also be accompanied by symptoms like nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fever.

3. Gastrointestinal Viral Infection (Gastroenteritis-like Illness)

Unsanitary eating habits, changes in weather, or infections with viruses such as influenza virus, adenovirus, or coronavirus may trigger gastrointestinal-type colds, resulting in gastrointestinal discomfort. Symptoms may include nausea after eating watermelon, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, possibly accompanied by sore throat or dehydration.