Seasickness, a form of motion sickness, occurs when the brain receives conflicting signals about movement from the eyes, inner ear, and sensory receptors. This sensory mismatch can lead to a range of unpleasant symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and sweating. A common question among those preparing for a sea journey is whether an empty stomach contributes to these symptoms, and understanding this can help manage the experience.
The Role of Stomach Contents in Seasickness
While an empty stomach does not directly cause seasickness, it can worsen symptoms like nausea and vomiting once seasickness begins. When the stomach is empty, there is nothing to absorb stomach acids, which can irritate the stomach lining and intensify feelings of queasiness. Conversely, an overly full stomach can also be problematic, as it places additional strain on the digestive system, potentially exacerbating discomfort.
Dietary Approaches to Seasickness Prevention
To help prevent or alleviate seasickness, specific dietary choices before and during a sea journey can be beneficial. Consuming light, bland, and easily digestible foods is often recommended. Good options include starchy foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, toast, crackers, or plain bread. These foods are less likely to irritate the stomach and can help absorb excess stomach acid.
Staying well-hydrated with water is also important, as dehydration can intensify seasickness symptoms. It is advisable to avoid heavy, greasy, spicy, or acidic foods, as these can be slow to digest and may upset the stomach. Excessive alcohol and caffeine should be limited, as they can contribute to dehydration and further irritate the digestive system. Ginger, in various forms such as tea, capsules, or candied ginger, has also been found by some to help reduce nausea.
Beyond Diet: Other Factors Influencing Seasickness
Seasickness is influenced by several factors beyond dietary considerations. Visual input plays a significant role; focusing on the horizon can help align the brain’s sensory signals, reducing the conflict between what the eyes see and what the inner ear senses. Conversely, reading or looking at screens can worsen seasickness by creating a visual disconnect from the actual motion. Closing one’s eyes can also help by eliminating conflicting visual stimuli.
Finding a suitable position on the vessel can also make a difference, as the middle of the ship experiences less motion than the bow or stern. Getting fresh air on deck can provide relief, as enclosed spaces with strong odors, such as engine fumes or cooking smells, can exacerbate nausea. Factors such as pre-existing conditions like migraines or inner ear disorders can increase susceptibility. Psychological elements, including anxiety or the expectation of getting sick, can also influence the severity of symptoms.