Anyone that suffers from travel sickness knows that the fastest way to cure is to stand still on the ground preferably at low altitude. If you’re someone that is prone to this unpleasant and debilitating reaction take two words of advice – plan ahead. Trying to treat travel sickness when you’re in the middle of a long flight overseas, in the midst of choppy water in the middle of the ocean or sitting in the back of the bus on a long drive across the country is like trying to treat labour pains after you’ve already delivered your baby. If you know you’re susceptible to it plan ahead, think clearly and rationally and admit to yourself that you’re a sensitive one that needs a little self-care and respect when travelling.
First things first, whatever you eat before or during your travel is likely to aggravate (and potentially say hello to you again) so think carefully about what you’re going to put into your mouth. 2 bottles of wine, ½ kg of shelled prawns and cheesecake are foods that are unlikely to give your stomach the break it needs. Be gentle – in the morning before you set off eat simple and easily digested foods such as a bowl of porridge with stewed fruits and a cup of peppermint or chamomile tea. The more ‘digested’ the meal is, the less likely it sill hang around in your belly during the journey so the less likely it will make a nasty reappearance. Don’t make the mistake of thinking ‘I’ll simply starve before I board the (insert travelling style here)’ as this will also aggravate your experience. When you’re actually travelling, don’t make the mistake of gorging on whatever food you are given either – be selective and discerning. If it seems extravagant, it probably is.
Avoid alcohol at all costs. Just because you might be feeling okay initially, the dehydration and negative blood pressure effects are most certainly going to aggravate your queasiness. Stay hydrated before and during with simple, pure water.
