Boffins have developed a breakfast which they say is scientifically safe to eat before going on a roller-coaster… without the fear of being sick.
Bosses at a theme park called in the scientists after discovering that many visitors skipped breakfast because they were worried it might make them sick when going on rides.
Food specialist Dr David Lewis then set about looking at what types of food were likely to leave you barfing, before producing the special menu.
He says all the foods in his breakfast are low on the Glycemic Index, have low acidity but with the right level of protein and digestion aiding bacteria to ensure it stays down.
Alton Towers are so convinced he got it right they will give anyone who is sick on a ride after eating it their money back… though that will come as no consolation for the person who was beneath them.
Dr David Lewis said: “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.”
Items in the breakfast
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.
