How to Prevent Seasickness

Excessive stimulation to the inner ear, caused by the repetitive swaying and motions of the sea, can cause nausea and vomiting and ruin your adventure. Here are some tried and true methods for keeping seasickness at bay.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Lemon Drops
• Ginger Capsules
• Motion Sickness Medicine
• Anti-motionsickness Wristbands

1. Talk to your doctor about prescription medicines, or consider over-the-counter medication such as dimenhydrinate (Dramamine). For many people, the most effective preventive medication is scopolamine, available by prescription and applied as a patch to the skin.

2. Try an anti-seasickness wristband, which stimulates the median nerve in your wrist, a well-known acupuncture point.

3. Try eating ginger 12 to 24 hours before your trip. Take it as a supplement, following directions on the package, or talk to a nutritionist at your local health food store. Some sources recommend putting powdered ginger into granola or sprinkling it on top of toast. Snacking on ginger-snaps several hours before your trip may also help.

4. Drink plenty of water before your trip. Good hydration helps prevent seasickness. But once on board, avoid foods and fluids until you're sure you won't get seasick. Avoid all alcoholic beverages; alcohol can not only add to your tipsy feeling but promote dehydration.

5. Eat oatmeal, crusty bread or bagels an hour before setting off. Some experts say that having food in your stomach can reduce seasickness.

6. Position yourself where the least motion is felt, usually in the center of the deck, and avoid going below deck, as the fumes and stuffy air will not help your nausea.

7. Suck on lemon drops'or your favorite hard candy'as soon as the boat begins moving. Besides tasting good, these tart treats may help to keep your nausea in check.

8. Take deep breaths and stare out into the distance. Focus on the horizon, not on waves or moving objects.

Tips & Warnings

• The Dutch have been credited with inventing the sport of yachting. The word "yacht" is from the Dutch word "jacht," which when literally translated means "to throw up violently."

• If you have any questions or concerns, contact a physician or other health care professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.