Should you eat before going sea sick?

Seasick? What to Eat (and Avoid) Before Setting Sail

Seasickness, that dreaded queasy feeling that can ruin even the most idyllic cruise, is a common ailment. While some are more susceptible than others, what you eat before embarking on your seafaring adventure can significantly impact your susceptibility. So, should you eat before a trip that might make you feel queasy? The answer is a resounding yes – but with a crucial caveat: choose your food wisely.

A rumbling stomach, empty and stressed, can exacerbate the symptoms of seasickness. An empty stomach contributes to nausea and dizziness, making the already unpleasant experience even worse. Therefore, skipping breakfast entirely is a bad idea.

The key is to fuel your body with a light, easily digestible meal. Think of it as preparing your system for the potential challenges ahead. A heavy, greasy, or spicy breakfast will likely do the opposite. These rich foods take longer to digest, placing extra strain on your digestive system – a system already potentially under stress from the rocking of the boat. This can lead to increased nausea and discomfort.

Instead, opt for a nutritious and bland breakfast. Consider these options:

• Toast with a little jam or honey: Simple carbohydrates provide energy without weighing you down.
• Plain crackers or rice cakes: These are easy on the stomach and provide a source of energy.
• Plain yogurt (unsweetened): Provides probiotics which can aid digestion.
• Banana: A potassium-rich fruit that can help regulate blood sugar and prevent nausea.
• Oatmeal (plain): A gentle, easily digestible source of complex carbohydrates.

Remember that what you consume in the hours before your journey is just as important. Avoid anything rich, greasy, or spicy the day of your trip. Focus on light, easily digestible meals throughout the day.

And perhaps the most crucial piece of advice: avoid alcohol in the 24 hours leading up to your departure. Alcohol dehydrates you and can significantly worsen seasickness symptoms.

Preparing your body with the right fuel can make a world of difference in how you feel at sea. A light, easily digestible breakfast, a focus on bland foods throughout the day, and abstinence from alcohol are all key strategies in mitigating the discomfort of seasickness and ensuring a smoother, more enjoyable journey. So, eat before you go, but choose wisely!