Suffering from a severe or even a slight degree of seasickness can be debilitating and make it impossible to endure a trip out on the water.
Seasickness affects approximately 33 percent of the population and occurs through the sensors in our body that become confused when our eyes see that we are not moving, but the balance in our ears senses motion.
Although it can be incredibly uncomfortable, there are several methods to relieve the symptoms and still spend time on the water.
Take Ginger
Fortunately, there are many supplements that counteract motion sickness and work to calm the nerves, while balancing your equilibrium.
Ginger is one of the most recommended to take before boarding a boat. It can be taken raw, with tea, or in capsule form to work effectively.
Many people also prefer to consume it as a carbonated beverage or in different foods, including ginger snaps.
Wear a Motion Sickness Band
Many retailers sell bands to wear on boats that prevent seasickness, proving effective results. The bands work to apply an appropriate amount of pressure to specific pressure points to balance out the sensors in the body.
The most popular brands include Sea-Band, Bio-Band, Acu-Strap, and Travel-band.
Avoid Eating Large Meals
Before going out on the water, avoid eating a large meal or greasy foods, which can increase symptoms of seasickness and lead to bloating. Try snacking throughout the day beforehand, and bringing light veggies and crackers on the boat to curb your appetite.
Drink Plenty of Water
Becoming dehydrated on a boat can only perpetuate the feeling of being seasick, and make it difficult to recover if you don’t drink enough water.
Bring a few bottles of water and avoid drinking sodas or sugary beverages. Alcohol should also not be consumed prior to the boat ride, and also during it.
Consider Supplements and Herbs
Before traveling on the water, consider chewing large amounts of raw parsley. Avoid taking it when you begin to feel the symptoms.
B6 vitamins have also been widely used to significantly reduce episodes of seasickness and are commonly used to reduce the symptoms of nausea for pregnant women.
Drop the Binoculars
Using binoculars to sightsee on a boat can seem like a good idea to help take your mind off of feeling seasick, but it can actually increase the symptoms to make it worse. Avoid staring at any objects that would normally be stationary to prevent confusing your mind and senses even more.
Stay Out of the Cabin
Sitting in small, enclosed areas on the boat will make seasickness worse and increase symptoms because you’ll be in an area that your body would normally associate as something that doesn’t move.
Go outside on a deck where there’s plenty fresh air and sunshine to ensure you have plenty of oxygen. This is also the best location to be should you get sick.
Clean Your Ears
Since your body’s balance is located inside of your ears, it’s crucial to thoroughly clean them before boarding a boat to ensure the mechanisms are more balanced. Gently use q-tips, followed by a teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide that can sit in the ears for five minutes. This will work to break down earwax and removed dirt.
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Derek is currently blogging for a boat rental lake Hopatcong marina. When he is not blogging or working, he enjoys spending time on his boat and with his family. Although owning a boat is expensive, he loves to spend time on it and relax.
