6 remedies for motion sickness: choose these drinks, spices and fruits

While many of us enjoy the prospect of traveling to new places and going on vacations, we dread spending long periods of time in cars and planes. If you suffer from motion sickness, you may find yourself unable to enjoy long journeys as much as others. Motion sickness can be a difficult condition, and it’s not always easy to find a solution that works every time. Most experts suggest a combination of precautions related to sitting position, concentration, and food. For example, people who feel nauseous in moving vehicles are often advised to listen to music to distract themselves, but not engage in activities that require increased attention, such as reading. They prefer to sit at specific places where the movement of the vehicle will not affect them much. However, the important category is diet. If you suffer from motion sickness, you have to be very careful about what you eat before, during and after your trip. We have put together a list of some simple tips that can make your next trip more comfortable:
(Also Read: 5 Foods To Avoid Eating Before Boarding A Flight)

Here are 6 foods to help you get relief from motion sickness:

1. Ginger

_{Ginger is a miracle spice, and it can be consumed in a number of ways to help fight nausea. photo credit: pixabay}

Ginger has many long term health benefits but it is also a wonderful quick remedy for nausea and motion sickness. You can keep some finely chopped pieces handy before starting your journey. Just chew them when you start feeling restless. If you don’t like the taste of plain ginger, you can consume other foods and beverages that contain plenty of ginger. For example, you can also opt for ginger lemonade, ginger ale or similar drinks during the journey. Other natural cool drinks like coconut water, lime soda, fruit juices, etc. can also help you feel better. If you suffer from motion sickness, it is better to stay away from caffeinated beverages such as coffee and some aerated drinks. Caffeine causes dehydration, which will make you feel worse while traveling.
(Also Read: This Fool-Proof Hack To Keep Ginger Fresh Will Make Your Life So Much Easier)

2. Saunf/Saunf

_{Fennel aids digestion and helps avoid bloating. photo credit: pixabay}

You can also rely on good old saunf or badi (fennel seeds) when you are feeling nauseous. Have you ever wondered why it is often served after a meal in restaurants? This is because fennel has long been considered a great aid to digestion. Fennel is said to have carminative properties, which means it helps reduce gas and bloating. Even if you don’t usually get motion sickness, you may have eaten something that didn’t agree with your system. In this case, general indigestion can easily lead to vomiting, especially in a moving vehicle. Next time you face such a situation, simply chew fennel seeds.
(Also Read: 7 Foods For Indigestion And How You Can Include Them In The Diet)

3. Crackers / biscuits without sugar

_{Unflavored crackers aren’t always appetizing. But they’re great for when you’re feeling down. photo credit: pixabay}

The last thing anyone wants to eat when feeling nauseous is anything that tastes strong. Although it may taste delicious, any food with a distinctive odor makes anyone feel bad. This is the reason why it is advised to consume soft foods like crackers during the journey. Make sure you get the unflavoured ones. Most plain crackers are lightly salted or sweetened, making them edible enough. Crackers are also effective because they are high in starch, which helps restore balance to your system.

4. Banana

_{The potassium content in bananas makes them ideal for people suffering from motion sickness. photo credit: pixabay}

Another food that will help you to maintain your energy level is banana. If you become ill (vomiting or diarrhoea) while traveling, you will feel weak and your body will be low in potassium. This is the reason why bananas are a great option if you suffer from motion sickness. They also aid in healthy digestion. Also, their flavor is milder than other fruits. They are also easy to consume and transport.
(Also Read: Banana For Weight Loss: 5 Banana Shakes And Smoothies For Your Pre And Post Workout Sessions)

5. Cardamom

_{Cardamom is another useful spice for people who are feeling nauseous. photo credit: pixabay}

Apart from ginger and fennel, chewing one or two whole cardamoms during the journey can also reduce the effects of motion sickness to a great extent. The best thing about spices like ginger and cardamom is that they are easily available in most of our kitchens. Plus, you don’t need any fancy preparation for them to be effective. You just have to remember to take them along before your trip.

6. Mulethi

Liquorice (liquorice root) is another miraculous ingredient that can provide relief from nausea and indigestion. It can be ground and mixed with water. An alternative way to take advantage of these spices is to infuse their flavors into tea. Herbal teas and decoctions are believed to relieve feelings of nausea and dizziness. These beverages usually contain a nutritious combination of spices and contain very little caffeine.
(Also Read: Liquorice Is Great For Immunity, Acidity, Indigestion And Overall Health – Here’s How To Consume It)

Disclaimer: This content provides general information only including advice. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult an expert or your own physician for more details. NDTV does not take responsibility for this information.