Archive for November, 2008
Jet Lag – How to Prevent It or How To Treat It When Travelling
Anyone who travels long distances knows what a challenge jet lag can be. Here are some tips for preventing and treating it.
1. Several days before your trip, start adjusting your routine an hour a day, depending on which direction your trip will take you. Get up an hour earlier if travelling east, an hour later if travelling west.
2. Reset your watch to the new time zone as you settle in to your airline seat.
3. Try to time your in-flight sleep to match the night-time hours of your destination. You may want to use eye shades or ear plugs.
4. Likewise, do what you can to match the day-time hours of your destination. Work a puzzle, read etc. You may be able to walk or stretch in the aisle.
5. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Avoid alcohol and caffeine. They can make you dehydrated.
6. When you arrive, eat protein if you need to stay awake for several hours. Eat carbohydrates if it is time to sleep.
7. If it is daytime, stay in the sunlight if possible to get your biological clock readjusted.
8. If it is daytime but you are really sleepy, take a short nap (no more than one hour). Sleep no later than 3 p.m. (local time) so as to not interfere with your night-time sleep.
9. If you must drive the first day after your flight, use extra caution. If you feel sleepy, pull over and nap. If at all possible, get someone else to drive who is not experiencing jet lag.
8. If it is night, go to bed even if you don’t feel sleepy. Try taking a relaxing bath first or reading a slightly boring book to help you get drowsy.
Jet lag is a normal condition in travelling. It generally passes within a few days so you can enjoy the rest of your trip.