Travelling through different time zones always gives us the dreaded “jet lag” effect. No matter how frequently we travel (for work or leisure), there’s no escaping the common symptoms of jet lag.
Symptoms related to jet lag include sleep disturbance, poor concentration, increased fatigue, headaches, indigestion and more. The type of symptoms you suffer from usually depends on the amount of time zone alteration, what time of the day it is, and on the person itself.
Fret not, though, as there are some tips and tricks you can try to minimize the effects of jet lag.
Below, are 5 tips on getting rid of jet lag.
1. Reset your Body Clock
Geography, physics and some other “scientific” explanations are the reasons why you experience jet lag. Adjusting or resetting your body clock could work minimize the effects of jet lag. Gradually adjust your bedtime for about three days according to the time zone you will be travelling to. This will help you adapt better to your new time zone.
A quick tip: Jetlag Rooster is a website/app that creates a personal jet lag plan to help reduce the symptoms of jetlag.
2. Rehydrate, Rehydrate, Rehydrate
You’ve heard this tip a million times before, and here we are reinforcing it again. The air in an aircraft cabin is very dry, which is why It is best for you to drink as much water as possible. Sugary drinks as well as alcohol and caffeine will just dehydrate you more. It will be better to avoid alcohol and caffeine on the day of your arrival too. Rehydration will make it easier on the body to adjust to a new setting. A rule of thumb is that for every hour in the air, try to have a cup of water. Staying hydrated will also give you the occasional need to use the lavatory, hence reminding you to walk around the cabin to promote circulation.
A quick tip on how to stay hydrated: Strict security measures prohibit travelers to bring large amounts of liquids on board planes. However, you may bring an empty water bottle with you and, once you get on board, request to have a flight attendant fill the bottle for you.
3. Reset your Watch
Reset your watch to the time zone you will be travelling too, as soon as you get on board the aircraft. Try to “live” on your destination’s time as soon as you can. This will help trick your brain (you never know!) and mentally prepare you for the new time zone. Try avoiding sleeping on the plane if it is daylight at your destination, and try to sleep on the plane if it is night time at your destination.
A quick tip on sleeping on the aircraft: If you’re not one of the privileged few to travel on business or first class, you might want to bring a pillow and blanket, earplugs and eyeshades to get comfortable in coach/economy class.
4. Eat Well
Yes, believe it or not, what you choose to eat can have an effect on your body’s struggle with jet lag. If possible, try to eat your meals according to the time zone of your destination. For example, if you are travelling to the U.S.A, have your breakfast, lunch or dinner according to the time in the U.S. Also, stay clear of oily, fried food and, yes, you guessed it, consume more fruits, vegetables and lean protein. Healthy snacks like dried fruits and nuts are a good way to keep the hunger at bay.
5. A Short Nap is Fine
Upon arrival at your destination, go to bed when the locals do, so that your body can adjust to the local time zone faster. Have a shower, a good meal, and go for a walk. If you must nap, try not to exceed more than half an hour, so that your night time sleep is not disturbed. Expose yourself to as much sunlight as possible and remain active.
Everyone responds differently to jet lag depending on their approaches and need for sleep, travel experience, age and lifestyle factors. Ultimately, listen to your body and take it easy. Travel safe everyone!
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