Theme Park Hires Scientists To Develop Anti-vomit Breakfasts

When the management at the Alton Towers theme park heard that a large number of visitors skipped breakfast out of fear of losing it on their rides, they decided to take action.

They called on Dr David Lewis, a food specialist, to produce a menu that was less conducive to vomiting. According to Lewis, the foods on the menu needed to be low on the Glycemic Index, have low acidity and have the right levels of protein and digestion-aiding bacteria. Alton Towers are confident enough in his menu that anyone who vomits after eating it will be offered a refund.

Lewis explains the science behind the condition:

When we go on ride your brain and body react as if you were in real danger even though you are well aware that the ride is actually completely safe.

Excitement triggers what is called our body’s fight or flight response, which causes an increase in heart rate and sweating. At the same time digestion is slowed down, which explains why when queuing for a ride you may notice your mouth has gone dry and your stomach is churning. This is where having had the right kind of nourishing food for breakfast comes to your aid.

The food should be wholesome and easily digested while, at the same time, being low on what is called the Glycemic Index. This includes carbohydrates such as oats, barley or bran and bread or rolls with whole grains, stone-ground flour, and sour dough that produce only minor fluctuations in blood glucose and insulin levels.

Your breakfast should also include fresh fruit with low acidity plus protein, from meat or yoghurt, to provide all the energy you will need.

So what’s on the menu?

Yoghurt mixed with blueberries, Granola and honey
The Yoghurt provides protein for energy as well as digestion aiding bacteria. Blueberries are rich in chemicals called anthocyanins, and phytochemicals believed to play a role in reducing inflammation that can occur when we feel nauseous.

Grilled organic bacon in whole meal bap with tomato
These provide an excellent source of easily digested nourishment which, being low on the Glycemic Index, help ensure that this is released slowly but surely across the morning.

Celery juice with carrot and ginger
Ginger is well known for its nausea combating powers; the carrot provides essential vitamins while celery has been used for centuries to relieve pain. It also contains 3-N-butyl-phthalide a compound shown to lower blood pressure in animal studies.

Bon appetit!

[ad#3_social_compact]

[Alton Towers via News:Lite]