Jet Lag-No Need to Suffer

Jet lag happens when you fly long distances across time zones. It disrupts your body ryhthm making it difficult to adjust your sleep. Anyone can get it, but it's up to you as to how long you suffer with it after you reach your destination. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help you along so the time you spend at your destination will be enjoyable.

Keep yourself well hydrated on the flight. The airplane cabin pumps in pure oxygen which can quickly dry you out. Drink plenty of water during the entire flight. Flight crews know this and don't mind getting you water. A good crew will constantly push it during the flight. When you're well hydrated you don't have your body fighting that as well as the fatigue.

Avoid alcohol and caffeine during the flight. Alcohol and caffeine not only dry you out, your body has to spend time withdrawing from it during the flight. It takes several hours for your body to completely rid itself of caffeine and alcohol which disrupts the restfulness of sleep.

After you arrive at your destination, do not go to sleep. Don't even take a nap. It's best to try and adjust to the local time. Take it easy the first day of your arrival and go to sleep for the day when it is dark outside.

Get into the sun. The presence of sunlight is how the body establishes its body rhythms. Getting out in the sunshine and walking around shortly after you reach your destination will help you readjust.

Do not use a sleeping aid. Whether you are considering prescription or over-the-counter sleeping aids, don't be tempted to do it. It's a temporary fix and actually makes the problem worse.

Eat small meals made of easily digested foods. Avoid heavy foods such as meats and those that are greasy. They will cause the body to bog down with digestion when it should focus on rest and recovery.

Jet lag may be unavoidable, but using these tips will help you to make a swift recovery. Spending time at your destination enjoying the experience is certainly a much better choice than suffering the discomfort, fatigue and irritability from jet lag.