Jet lag, defined as disruption to the body’s normal rhythms, is caused by high speed travel across time zones. Symptoms of jet lag may include extreme sleepiness, fatigue, headaches, difficulty concentrating, or stomach problems. West to east trips worsen jet lag because the body “loses time.” The next time you travel far from home, try these tips and tricks to manage jet lag.
In any language, it's water! Drink plenty to stay hydrated and to help with the jet lag. |
Simulate your new
schedule. In the days before you depart, move your body into its new
schedule. This can be done with bedtime and mealtime adjustments. It will throw
you out of sync with the rest of your current life patterns, but it will ease
your transition into a new vacation time schedule.
Drink plenty of
water. Water keeps the body hydrated
and is vital to combat the dry air on airplanes. Drink plenty during your
flight and also once you arrive.
Sleep on the plane.
If your trip includes a night flight, sleep on the plane. When the flight
arrives in the morning, you’ll have had sleep and will be ready for the day’s
activities. This also prepares your body for bedtime in your new location. An eye mask and noise cancelling headphones can be helpful for sleeping on airplanes.
Set your watch to
the destination time. As soon as you depart, set your watch to the current
time at your destination. This adjusts your mind to the new local time.
Avoid caffeine
while in flight. Don’t consume caffeinated beverages while flying. They
disrupt the body’s cycles and can make it difficult for you to sleep.
Use alcohol with
caution. Some travelers like to use alcohol as a way to aid in sleep or to
relax the body. Use these drinks with caution, especially ones that you don’t
often consume. Avoid intoxication, and be aware of alcohol’s effects on your
body.
Don't do too much on the first day, such as hiking in the mountains! |
Keep the first day’s activities light. Don’t plan a heavy schedule of sightseeing on the first day. Plan the day so activities are flexible and a nap can be had, if needed. Keep the nap short, just one to two hours. Exposure to large amounts of sunshine on the first day can also help the body clock adjust to its new time.
Try new medications before your trip. Some travelers use melatonin or sleeping pills to help regulate sleep. If you’re planning to use a medication to help you manage jet lag, try the medication at home. It’s better to experience side effects before you’re on vacation. An upset stomach, headaches, extreme sleepiness, or extreme stimulation may be worse than the jet lag.
Plan an extra day
to recover. Your body will need time to readjust once you’re home. Plan an
extra day off work, or return adjacent to a weekend, so that you have time to
manage the jet lag at the end of the trip.
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