Dizzy disasters: Motion sickness solutions

A coworker of mine returned from a cruise last week, noting the number of days it took her to regain her "land legs." Thank goodness, she said, for Dramamine. Just in case, she'd swallowed one each morning at sea.

What--however--is a traveling gal to do if she's not ready to throw back the pills? Consumer Reports' ad-free sister publication, ShopSmart;), granted traveler's some tried-and-true, natural wisdom in their July 2008 issue, on stands now.

First, advises the magazine, try ginger root. You can pick up some capsules or candies for use up to four times a day (up to 250 milligrams). If you're adverse to ginger, you can try another unproven, but oft cited cure, Sea-Bands, bracelets that stimulate acupressure points on the wrist to combat nausea. No, they're not the most fashionable option, but then again, most anything beats a long lean and protein spill over the rail of a mega ship.

If you are feeling sick, try these tips, detailed in the "How NOT to toss your cookies" sidebar of "Motion sickness fixes."

• Eat stomach-soothing foods (Avoid dairy and foods high in protein or sodium)



• Get the best seat (That's midship on a boat deck)



• Avoid nausea triggers (Including alcohol, cigarette smoke and strong odors)



• Focus your mind (Stare at the horizon or lay back with your eyes closed)



• Get some air (Step out onto the deck and take deep breaths)