5 TOP TIPS TO AVOID JET LAG
What is Jet Lag?
Jet lag is when your normal sleep pattern is disturbed due to moving between different time zones. Many people experience the symptom of jet lag when they fly from one time zone to another. Since your body can take a few days to adjust to the new time, people often experience the symptoms of jet lag for several days after they arrive in a new country. These symptoms can include:
- Difficulty in getting to sleep
- Poor sleep quality
- Night time and early morning waking
- Tiredness and exhaustion throughout the day
- Difficulty concentrating and remembering things
Unfortunately threre is no quick fix for jet lag, but there are measures you can take to reduce it as much as possible.
These are our 5 top tips for avoiding jet lag:
1 – Prepare before you go
One of the best ways to combat the possibility of Jet Lag occurring is by gradually easing your body into the time zone you are travelling to. Ensure you get lots of rest before you go and start to go to bed earlier or later in line with the new time zone. This will make the transition easier once you arrive at your destination.
2 – Adjust your time clock as soon as possible
It is important to try to “get into your new time zone” as soon as possible after arriving. If it is time for sleep when you arrive, try to sleep. Even if you do not get a good sleep, try to sleep at the correct times. Set an alarm to ensure you wake up in the morning, even if this means you are tired, it will give you the best chance of adjusting quickly. Also try to eat at the times of your new time zone. Even if you do not feel like eating, it is important to try to help your body adjust to its new time zone.
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3 – Consider Melatonin tablets
Taking melatonin tablets 2-4 hours before bedtime can help your body adjust to your new time zone. Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone in your body which helps to regulate sleep patterns. Although these tablets are not licensed for use in Jet Lag specifically, they are licensed for insomnia and they are widely used throughout the world for Jet Lag. For more information on Jet Lag treatment medication, see here:
4 – Go outside during the day
Ensuring your body is exposed to natural day light will help combat the tiredness associated with Jet Lag as it helps your body clock adjust. Make sure you get outside for walks while it’s light and you may adjust quicker than you think.
5 – Avoid drinking caffeine of alcohol
Caffeinated or alcoholic drinks can make jet lag worse. They can interrupt your natural sleeping pattern and make it harder to fall and stay asleep. Try to avoid these at least, while your body adjusts, then you can continue to drink these in moderation after you feel better.
