Overview of Jet Lag
Jet lag is a common travel ailment which affects people who travel often across time zones. Jet lag is recognized as a medical diagnosis officially termed ‘desynchronosis’ and commonly known as jet lag disorder, it is caused by an interruption of the body’s natural biological rhythms. It includes both physical and emotional symptoms, such as fatigue, insomnia, digestive problems, decreased concentration, headache and disorientation.
Jet lag can be challenging to diagnose and treat, as the symptoms vary among each individual and can depend on other factors such as age, physical condition, and the number of time zones traveled. As such, understanding jet lag is the first step in combating it by using practical techniques.
Keeping a healthy balance of sound sleep, exercise and proper hydration are all important in aiding with jet lag. By taking preventative measures and understanding your own body better, you’ll be able to adjust to different time zones in no time.
Managing Jet Lag
Managing jet lag can be done in a variety of ways, depending on the amount of time you’ll be in the new time zone, the number of flights you’ll have taken, and your body’s individual clock. It is important to consider the following tips when managing jet lag:
Adjusting your body’s clock in advance is highly recommended, which you can do up to several days before your trip to the new time zone. Gradual changes in bedtime, meal times and exercise routines will help you adjust to the new time zone quickly and more easily.
Staying Hydrated and Getting Plenty of Exercise
Staying hydrated while traveling is also important. Jet lag can increase dehydration, so it is important to drink lots of water while in the new time zone to help prevent it. Additionally, getting regular exercise is key in combating jet lag. Exercise can help to regulate your internal clock, encouraging the body to adjust to the new time zone.
Limiting caffeine and alcohol intake is another helpful technique to reduce jet lag. Caffeine has been shown to disrupt sleep patterns, however drinking small amounts or avoiding it in the evening can help you get more restful sleep. Similarly, drinking alcohol on the plane can worsen jet lag, so try to limit your intake or avoid it altogether.
Finally, controlling your sleeping habits is essential in managing jet lag. Research suggests going to bed and wake up times in accordance with your destination time zone as much as possible. If needed, you can take a power nap (15-30min) during the day to catch up on sleep and help you adjust the new schedule more quickly.
Practical Tips for Handling Jet Lag
- Gradually adjust to the new time zone before your trip
- Stay hydrated during your travel
- Regular exercise is vital and encouraged
- Limit caffeine and alcohol intake
- Try to go to bed and wake up at times according to you destination’s time zone
- Go for a short nap during the day if needed
Conclusion
Jet lag can be an inconvenient and debilitating nuisance for frequent travelers, but there are plenty of tips, tricks and techniques to combating it and getting back on track. With a little effort, travelers can use practical techniques to adjust their body clocks quickly and get on with their day.