Anyone who has ever suffered from seasickness knows how much it can ruin a ferry trip. Whether it’s a short crossing or a long sail, nausea can come on suddenly, especially in rough seas. What if we told you that there is a simple, affordable remedy used by sailors when they don’t have drugs like Xamine on hand? It sounds incredible, but one trick against seasickness is bananas and a can of Coke.
A simple and surprising trick
We discovered this remedy while reading a travel blog about crossings between Southeast Asian islands. Apparently, ferry sailors in Thailand-often forced to work even in rough seas-use this very combination to keep nausea at bay while sailing.
The reason? It makes more sense than it sounds.
Why is Coke a remedy for seasickness?
It may sound strange, but Coca Cola is often recommended as a home remedy for seasickness-and not just because of the taste.
Here’s why it can work:
- It contains caffeine in small doses, which stimulates the nervous system and can help counteract the feeling of exhaustion typical of nausea.
- It has a mild digestive action due to its acidity and carbon dioxide.
- Simple sugars provide quick energy, especially if you are on an empty stomach.
- Effervescence can relieve the feeling of heaviness.
- It is cold, so it has a cooling and calming effect.
Is it true that bananas help fight seasickness?
Bananas are one of the best foods to eat before or while sailing on a ferry, precisely to avoid the nauseous feeling of seasickness. Here’s why:
- It is rich in potassium, which is useful for fluid balance.
- Contains vitamin B6, known to reduce nausea and vomiting.
- Provides quick energy thanks to natural sugars.
- It is astringent and does not irritate the stomach.
- It has a neutral taste and pleasant texture even in uncomfortable conditions.
In addition, it is easy to carry and eat even without cutlery, perfect for a ferry.
Sailors’ trick: the do-it-yourself anti-nausea drink
Some ferry sailors in Thailand use this amazing remedy for seasickness when they do not have Xamamine on hand: a drink made from banana and Coke.
ìThe recipe is this:
- Cut a banana into slices
- Put it in a large walkie cup type glass.
- Add cold Coke and a few ice cubes
The result is a thirst-quenching drink, rich in potassium, sugars and a little caffeine. A combination that helps calm the stomach and restore energy, even when you’re sailing on rough seas.
If you don’t have time to prepare it, you can simply eat a couple of bananas and drink a can of Coke: less refined, but effective.
When to use banana and Coke to resist seasickness
This trick is perfect:
- When you have forgotten or don’t want to use Xamine.
- On short trips where you don’t want to take medication
- If you feel nausea coming on during navigation
- When traveling with children or people who are sensitive to medications
How to:
- Eat bananas about 30 minutes before boarding
- Take a can of Coke with you, to drink in small sips
- Avoid heavy foods before the ferry trip
- Stay outdoors, look at the horizon and breathe slowly, this always helps against seasickness
Other natural remedies for ferry sickness
In addition to bananas and Coke, you can also try:
- Ginger (candy, herbal tea or fresh)
- Anti-nausea bracelets (pressure on the P6 point of the wrist)
- Mint in gum or spray
- Chewing gum to stimulate salivation
- Deep breathing and upright posture
What about Xamine? The most useful drug in rough seas
Xamine is a classic remedy for seasickness, but:
- May cause drowsiness
- It is not suitable for everyone
- It is not always available, especially abroad
For this reason, the banana + Coke trick is a good natural alternative to keep on hand at all times.
Leave serene and do not fear nausea
Seasickness is a common annoyance, but with a few small tricks it can be prevented or relieved without necessarily resorting to drugs. The remedy used by some sailors-a banana and a Coke-is easy, inexpensive, natural … and can really save your trip.
Have you ever tried bananas and Coke against sea ma? Tell us your experience in the comments!
Bananas and Coke against seasickness: save recipe on cell phone
A handy mini-guide to save to your phone or print out, with all the tips for dealing with seasickness.
