The prospect of going snorkeling may have your stomach turning a few flips. Right now, you’re likely excited about being able to see what the world is like underwater. You may also be dealing with a few jitters about doing something completely new. Thinking about what you should eat before your dive is a great way to prep for an adventurous trip, and knowing what to enjoy and which foods to avoid helps you to keep up your energy while avoiding any unwelcome surprises.
Eat Starchy Foods to Calm a Nervous Stomach.
That nervous churning in your stomach could be causing your body to produce too much acid. Starchy foods help to absorb those acids and restore your digestive processes to normal. Depending upon the time of day, you might enjoy a piece of toast or mildly flavored oatmeal. Oatmeal has a smooth and comforting texture that is easy to digest. You can buy organic oats online by GF Oats or any trusted source. If it is lunchtime, then consider eating a sandwich or baked potato. Just avoid loading them up with too many fatty toppings.
Avoid Eating a Heavy Meal Just Before You Go.
Most advanced divers warn beginners who are taking their first snorkeling class to eat a light snack before their scheduled trip beneath the sea. If possible, eat your big meal an hour or two before you go snorkeling so that your body has time to digest it without you getting too hungry as you swim. A protein bar, avocado toast, or a handful of granola can give you energy without bogging your body down. Once you finish your dive, you can feel free to go all out with a rewarding meal that refuels your body’s energy.
Rewarding meals that can refuel your body include a grilled seafood feast with seasoned fish and shrimp, steamed vegetables, and a light lemon-butter sauce. Another option is a protein-packed salad featuring various greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, avocados, grilled chicken or tofu, and a vinaigrette dressing.
Vegetarians may enjoy Buddha bowls with quinoa, roasted or grilled vegetables, and hummus or tahini dressing. Try a protein-packed smoothie with Greek yogurt, spinach, and fruit for a lighter option. A fruit salad or a warm and hearty soup with a side of bread can also provide nourishment.
Skip Spicy and Greasy Foods.
Spicy and greasy foods can quickly send your digestive system into overdrive. The last thing you want to feel once you are all suited up is those rumbles that signal a trip to the bathroom is imminent. You can always enjoy that curry or greasy hamburger on another day. If you are craving a little fat, then a mix of nuts could help curb your appetite. You might also use some fresh herbs to infuse your meal with more flavor.
Watch Out for Healthy Foods That Irritate Your Stomach.
At first glance, some foods might seem healthy and ideal for snorkeling when they are actually bad for your stomach. Broccoli, cauliflower, and other cruciferous vegetables can fill your stomach up with gas and cause uncomfortable bloating. You’ll also want to opt out of eating any acidic fruits such as oranges or grapefruit if you’ve already got a nervous stomach.
Yogurt is a great source of probiotics and protein, which help prevent stomach discomfort. The same is true with proper hydration. Drink water, herbal teas, or electrolyte-rich drinks like coconut water. That way, you’ll have a safer and more enjoyable snorkeling experience.
Eat for Energy.
Bananas are a great non-irritating fruit that will fill you up and give you the energy to make it through your dive. You can even add a small dollop of nut butter for an extra bit of protein without taking in too much fat. Apples are another great option for eating a quick snack before your trip. Like bananas, they won’t send your stomach into fits and they provide enough carbs to give you energy for a while.
You can combine banana and apples with organic oats for an energy-loaded meal before snorkeling. A fruit smoothie made with yogurt or a plant-based protein powder, along with some spinach or kale for added nutrients, can also be a convenient and energizing option.
Snorkeling is a great way to get into watersports, and you can bet that it will lead to many grand adventures. Once you find the perfect types of food to eat before you go, you’ll want to make eating them a regular part of prepping for each new trip. Staying on top of your nutritional needs helps you to fuel your body for longer and deeper dives.
