MONDAY, Aug. 18 (HealthDay News) -- Chewing gum helps improve recovery of intestinal function after all or part of the colon has been surgically removed, according to British researchers who reviewed data from five clinical trials involving 158 patients.

The inability of the intestines to pass contents after surgery (postoperative ileus) is normal among abdominal surgery patients and is a major contributing factor to post-surgery nausea, vomiting, cramps, and the pain and discomfort associated with abdominal distension, according to background information in the article.

WEDNESDAY, June 25 (HealthDay News) -- A new vaccine for rotavirus -- a leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea in infants and children -- may account for this year's less severe season, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Wednesday.

The highly contagious virus is shed in the stools of infected people and is transmitted by contaminated hands and objects. Children can transmit the virus before and after they become sick with diarrhea.

Morning sickness can make the first trimester of pregnancy uncomfortable for many women. Although Zantac, Pepcid, and stronger prescriptions are common recommendations to help control the nausea and vomiting, taking as few medications as possible is in the best interest of the baby. Thankfully, a couple of alternative methods that originate from Traditional Chinese Medicine can help one relieve nausea. These safer substitutes are better for prenatal care and can be acquired cheaply and easily.