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Motion sickness, also referred to as travel sickness or kinetosis, occurs when conflicting sensory signals are sent to the brain regarding movement. This often arises due to a disparity between visual cues, signals from the inner ear (vestibular system), and other receptors that regulate balance and spatial orientation. This sensory mismatch leads to discomfort and feelings of nausea, making journeys uncomfortable for those affected.
Motion sickness symptoms include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, cold sweats, and rapid breathing. Among the factors that can aggravate these symptoms, certain foods stand out. The connection between diet and motion sickness is significant, as the wrong food choices can exacerbate the discomfort. Before setting off on a journey, it's essential to be mindful of your diet to minimise the risk of motion sickness. This article outlines ten foods to avoid to ensure a smoother trip.
Foods To Avoid Before Travelling
- Fatty And Fried Foods
Fatty and fried foods can be challenging to digest. These types of foods sit heavy in the stomach and slow down digestion. As a result, they can increase feelings of nausea and discomfort during travel. Avoid foods like burgers, fries, and greasy snacks before your journey.
Also Read: Ever Thought Why Junk Food Is So Addictive?
- Spicy Foods
Flavourful Spicy foods can irritate the stomach lining. This irritation can worsen the symptoms of motion sickness, including nausea and vomiting. Foods with high spice content, such as hot peppers and spicy sauces, should be avoided before travelling.
- Heavy Meals
Consuming large, heavy meals puts stress on the digestive system. Heavy meals require more energy to digest, which can lead to feelings of fullness and discomfort. Opt for smaller, more frequent meals or snacks to keep your stomach settled during travel.
- Caffeine
Caffeinated beverages, such as coffee and energy drinks, can lead to dehydration. Dehydration can worsen the symptoms of motion sickness, making nausea and dizziness more pronounced. Stick to water or herbal teas to stay hydrated and avoid exacerbating motion sickness.
- Alcohol
Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it increases urine production and leads to dehydration. Dehydration can make motion sickness symptoms like nausea and headaches more severe. It's best to avoid alcoholic beverages before and during travel.
- Strong Odours
Foods with potent smells, such as certain cheeses, fish, and garlic, can trigger nausea. Strong odours can be overwhelming and make the symptoms of motion sickness worse. Choose bland, odour-free foods to prevent triggering nausea during travel.
- Gas-Producing Foods
Foods that produce gas, such as beans, broccoli, cauliflower, and carbonated drinks, can cause bloating and discomfort. Bloating can increase feelings of nausea and make it harder to stay comfortable during travel. Avoid these foods to reduce the risk of motion sickness.
- Acidic Foods
High-acid foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes can irritate the stomach lining. This irritation can lead to increased nausea and discomfort. Stick to low-acid foods to calm your stomach and reduce the risk of motion sickness.
- Fatty Dairy Products
High-fat dairy items, such as cheese and full-fat milk, can be heavy on the stomach. These foods can increase feelings of fullness and nausea. Opt for low-fat or non-dairy alternatives to keep your stomach settled during travel.
- Processed Foods
Highly processed foods are often difficult to digest and lack essential nutrients. These foods can increase the likelihood of nausea and other motion sickness symptoms. Choose whole, unprocessed foods to ensure your stomach stays comfortable and reduce the risk of motion sickness.
Avoiding these ten foods can help minimise the risk of motion sickness and ensure a more comfortable journey. By making mindful food choices, you can enjoy your travels without the discomfort of nausea and other symptoms.
Motion sickness can turn any journey into an unpleasant experience. However, travellers can significantly reduce their discomfort by avoiding specific foods that can exacerbate symptoms. Staying hydrated and choosing easily digestible, bland foods can help keep nausea at bay, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable trip.
