What should I eat if I feel like throwing up in the bus?

Curbing Car Sickness: What to Eat Before and During a Bus Ride to Prevent Nausea

The rhythmic rocking and swaying of a bus can be a relaxing way to travel for some, but for others, it’s a one-way ticket to nausea town. Car sickness (or bus sickness in this case) is a common ailment, often triggered by the disconnect between what your eyes see and what your inner ear senses. While there are motion sickness medications available, sometimes a simple adjustment to your diet can make all the difference in keeping your stomach settled during a bumpy ride.

So, what should you eat – or avoid eating – if you’re prone to feeling queasy on the bus? The key is to focus on foods that are easily digestible and won’t further irritate your stomach. Think bland, gentle, and in small portions.

Before the Ride: Preparing for a Smooth Journey

• Bland Carbohydrates are Your Best Friend: Opt for simple carbs that are easy for your body to process. Think of the BRAT diet – Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast. These foods are low in fiber and fat, reducing the likelihood of stomach upset.

• Dry Toast or Crackers: A few dry crackers or a piece of plain toast can help absorb excess stomach acid and settle your stomach before you even step onto the bus.

• Avoid Fatty, Spicy, or Fried Foods: These types of foods can linger in your stomach longer, increasing the chances of indigestion and nausea. Steer clear of anything greasy, heavily spiced, or fried in the hours leading up to your bus ride.

• Don’t Travel on an Empty Stomach: While you want to avoid heavy meals, traveling on an empty stomach can actually worsen nausea. A small, bland snack is ideal.

• Hydrate with Water: Staying hydrated is crucial. Dehydration can exacerbate nausea, so sip on water throughout the day leading up to your trip. Avoid sugary drinks, as they can sometimes make things worse.

During the Ride: Calming the Upset Stomach

• Small Sips of Water: If you feel nausea creeping in, take small sips of cool water. Avoid gulping, as this can sometimes trigger vomiting.

• Ginger is Your Ally: Ginger has been proven to help alleviate nausea. Consider bringing ginger candies, ginger ale (look for real ginger content), or even ginger tea in a thermos.

• Bland Snacks in Small Portions: If you packed a banana or some crackers, nibble on them slowly. Eating too much at once can overwhelm your stomach.

• Focus on Fresh Air: While not food-related, getting fresh air can often help alleviate nausea. If possible, open a window or position yourself near a vent.

Beyond Food: Helpful Tips for a Smoother Ride

• Look Straight Ahead: Focusing on a fixed point in the distance can help your brain reconcile the visual information with the signals from your inner ear, reducing the sensation of motion sickness.

• Avoid Reading or Looking at Screens: Staring at a book, phone, or tablet can worsen nausea.

• Relax and Breathe Deeply: Stress and anxiety can exacerbate nausea. Try to relax, close your eyes, and take slow, deep breaths.

Ultimately, preventing bus sickness is about finding what works best for your body. By prioritizing easily digestible foods, staying hydrated, and employing a few simple coping strategies, you can significantly reduce your chances of feeling nauseous on the bus and enjoy a more comfortable journey. Remember to listen to your body and adjust your diet and strategies accordingly.