The Science of Seasickness: Why an Empty Stomach is Your Enemy
Seasickness, a form of motion sickness, occurs due to a conflict between your inner ear and your eyes. Your inner ear, which controls balance, senses the rocking motion of the boat, while your eyes might be focused on a stationary object, or, worse, something inside the boat's cabin. This sensory confusion sends mixed signals to your brain, leading to dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
While it might seem logical to avoid food to prevent having anything to throw up, an empty stomach can actually worsen the symptoms. An empty stomach can lead to an increase in stomach acid, which can aggravate the feelings of nausea. A light, bland meal provides something for your stomach acid to work on, helping to settle the digestive system and reduce overall discomfort.
What to Eat Before Your Boat Trip
The key is to choose your foods wisely. The best options are those that are bland, low in fat and acid, and easy to digest. A good strategy is to have a small meal about an hour before you embark.
- Simple Carbohydrates: Crackers, plain bread, or pretzels are excellent choices. They are easily digestible and can help absorb excess stomach acid.
- Protein-Rich Foods: A small amount of protein, like a bit of baked chicken or peanut butter, can help provide energy without weighing down your stomach.
- Ginger: This natural anti-nausea remedy has been used for centuries and has proven effective for many people. Consider ginger snaps, ginger candies, or a ginger ale made with real ginger.
- Bananas: Part of the BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast), bananas are gentle on the stomach and help replace potassium that can be lost from vomiting.
Foods and Drinks to Avoid
Just as important as knowing what to eat is knowing what to avoid. Certain foods and drinks can trigger or worsen seasickness.
- Greasy and Spicy Foods: Heavy, fatty, and spicy meals are difficult to digest and can lead to an upset stomach. This includes bacon, fried foods, and curry.
- Acidic Foods: High-acid foods like orange juice, citrus fruits, and tomato-based dishes can increase stomach acid and irritation.
- Alcohol and Caffeine: Both of these can cause dehydration, which exacerbates motion sickness symptoms. It's best to abstain from them for at least 24 hours before your trip.
- Strong Odors: Avoid foods with strong smells, as these can trigger nausea. Cooking smells in the galley, for example, are a common culprit.
Comparison Table: Best vs. Worst Foods for Seasickness
| Best Foods for Seasickness | Worst Foods for Seasickness |
|---|---|
| Saltine crackers, pretzels, plain bread | Greasy, spicy, or fried foods |
| Ginger (snaps, ale, candy) | Acidic foods and drinks (citrus, tomato) |
| Bananas, green apples | Alcohol and caffeinated beverages |
| Light, protein-rich snacks | Dairy products (can be heavy) |
| Water, clear broths | Foods with strong odors (some fish, cheeses) |
Beyond Food: Other Seasickness Prevention Tips
Eating right is just one part of a comprehensive strategy to prevent seasickness. Here are other proven methods to keep you comfortable on the water:
- Look at the Horizon: This helps to synchronize the signals from your eyes and inner ear, reducing the sensory conflict.
- Get Fresh Air: Staying on the boat's deck with a cool breeze can help alleviate symptoms. Avoid stuffy, enclosed spaces like the cabin.
- Choose Your Seat Wisely: The motion is typically less pronounced in the middle of the boat, closer to the waterline.
- Stay Hydrated: Sip water regularly to prevent dehydration, but avoid chugging large quantities.
- Medication: Over-the-counter options like Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) or Bonine (meclizine) can be effective if taken before symptoms start. For more severe cases, a prescription patch might be an option. Consult your doctor beforehand.
- Acupressure Bands: These wristbands apply pressure to a point on your wrist believed to alleviate nausea. While scientific evidence is mixed, many find them helpful and they are drug-free.
- Rest Up: Get a good night's sleep before your trip, as fatigue can make you more susceptible to motion sickness.
- Avoid Screens: Reading or looking at your phone can intensify the sensory mismatch and worsen seasickness.
Conclusion
If you get seasick, the answer is a resounding 'yes'—you should eat before going on a boat. However, it's not just about eating, but about eating smartly. A light, bland meal rich in simple carbohydrates and some protein will prevent an empty, acidic stomach from contributing to nausea. Coupled with smart food choices, a few other preventative measures like focusing on the horizon and getting fresh air will give you the best chance of enjoying your time on the water without the debilitating effects of seasickness. Always plan ahead, listen to your body, and don't be afraid to take medication if needed to ensure a smooth and pleasant journey.
A note on personalized care
Everyone's experience with seasickness is different. What works for one person may not work for another. It is a good idea to experiment with different foods and strategies on shorter trips to see what helps you most effectively before a longer voyage. If you have severe or persistent motion sickness, speaking with a healthcare professional can help you find a tailored solution.
