The Science Behind Sweets for Nausea Relief
Motion sickness is caused by a sensory mismatch where your inner ear detects motion, but your eyes and other senses do not, leading to confusion in the brain. This can trigger symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and a dry mouth. Consuming certain sweets can help address this in several ways: by introducing natural anti-nausea compounds, by providing a pleasant distraction, and by stimulating saliva production to combat dry mouth. While not a cure, these small, convenient remedies can offer significant comfort on the go.
How Key Ingredients Work
Ginger is perhaps the most well-known natural remedy for nausea. Its compounds, such as gingerol, are believed to increase digestive responsiveness and speed up stomach emptying, which can help alleviate feelings of nausea. Numerous commercially available candies, chews, and lozenges contain a dose of ginger to capitalize on this benefit. Scientific studies have indicated its effectiveness for various types of nausea, including motion sickness.
Peppermint, containing menthol and menthone, works by having a calming, antispasmodic effect on the smooth muscles of the stomach and gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The refreshing scent can also have a soothing effect on the nervous system, which promotes relaxation and eases anxiety-induced nausea. Peppermint is commonly available in the form of hard candies, mints, and lozenges.
Sour flavors, often found in products like Queasy Drops, are another effective method. The potent, tangy flavor acts as a sensory distraction, diverting the brain's focus away from the sensation of nausea. This flavor also stimulates saliva production, which can relieve the unpleasant dry mouth sensation that often accompanies queasiness.
Top Sweets for Motion Sickness
- Ginger Chews and Candies: These come in both soft, chewy forms and hard, longer-lasting varieties. The soft chews, like those from Dramamine or The Ginger People, deliver a potent dose of real ginger. Hard ginger candies from brands like ZANGBELLA offer a prolonged, spicy-sweet flavor that provides extended relief. Homemade ginger chews can also be customized for potency.
- Peppermint Hard Candies and Mints: Standard peppermint hard candies are easy to find and the menthol provides a soothing, cool sensation. Medicated lozenges containing peppermint and Vitamin B6, like those from Pink Stork, are specifically formulated for nausea relief.
- Sour Drops (Queasy Drops/Preggie Pops): Developed by healthcare professionals, these boiled sweets come in various sour fruit flavors, providing a strong, distracting taste and combating dry mouth.
- Black Horehound Candies: Penn State research suggests black horehound lozenges can be a natural remedy for queasiness. However, this is a less common option compared to ginger or peppermint.
How to Use Sweets Effectively for Motion Sickness
For the best results, timing is key. It is often most effective to consume a ginger or peppermint sweet before or at the very first sign of feeling queasy. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Plan Ahead: Pack your chosen sweets in an easily accessible spot, like your carry-on or car glove box, so they are ready the moment you need them.
- Act Quickly: As soon as you feel the initial signs of an upset stomach, pop a candy into your mouth. Do not wait until the nausea is severe, as prevention is more effective than treatment.
- Combine with Other Methods: Sweets work best as part of a holistic approach. The CDC recommends other strategies such as looking at the horizon, getting fresh air, or staying hydrated by sipping water.
- Suck, Don't Chew: For hard candies, sucking slowly allows the flavors and active ingredients to be released gradually, providing longer-lasting relief and distraction. Chewing may deliver the flavor too quickly or upset an already sensitive stomach.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water alongside your sweets. Avoid dehydrating beverages like alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen nausea.
Sweet Relief Comparison Table
| Feature | Ginger Candy | Peppermint Sweets | Sour Candy / Queasy Drops |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Mechanism | Calms stomach, speeds digestion | Relaxes stomach muscles, calming aroma | Sensory distraction, stimulates saliva |
| Key Benefit | Natural, long-proven remedy for nausea | Cooling sensation, reduces muscle spasms | Quick diversion, combats dry mouth |
| Ideal For | General travel nausea, morning sickness | Mild nausea, anxiety-related queasiness | Dry mouth, rapid onset of nausea |
| Flavor Profile | Spicy, warm, often with honey or lemon | Cool, refreshing, minty | Tangy, tart fruit flavors |
| Convenience | Highly portable, various forms available | Widely available, discreet | Specialized for nausea, individually wrapped |
Conclusion: Finding Your Sweet Spot for Relief
For those who experience motion sickness, a simple sweet can be a powerful tool for finding relief without relying solely on medicine. Ginger, with its proven anti-nausea properties, is a top contender, while peppermint offers a soothing and relaxing alternative. Sour drops provide a fast-acting distraction from queasiness. The best choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and how your body responds to each ingredient. Experimenting with different options to see what works best for you before your next trip is a smart strategy. Combining these sweets with basic behavioral tips, like focusing on the horizon and staying hydrated, can significantly improve your comfort during travel and make the journey more pleasant.
For more comprehensive travel health tips, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's travel section.
