Why do we get carsick?

LOS ANGELES, CA - If you're someone who can't read in the backseat, it's because your brain hasn't caught up with modern technology.

Neuroscientist Dean Burnett explains that the part of the brain that interprets sensory information from your body gets a bunch of mixed signals once you're strapped into a moving vehicle. You're sitting reading your book- but your body is traveling at a rapid speed. And the fluid in your inner ear, which helps maintain balance, is sloshing around as if you were running or dancing, even though you've got your shoes off and feet up.

As far as your body knows, this kind of extreme sensory confusion only happens if you’ve ingested a neurotoxin or poison. So it's natural reaction is to make you nauseated- just to be on the safe side. You turn green because your body is just trying to do you a favor and save your life- not to ruin the road trip.

We suggest looking up and enjoying the scenery or listening to music or an audio book. That’s a modern technology your brain will actually appreciate. Happy travels!