Many people find that crossing multiple time zones messes up their internal clocks. In addition to experiencing headaches, upset stomachs, and difficulty concentrating, they may suffer from inadequate sleep.
But there is no have to waste time in keeping off the results of jet lag. Try these jet lag remedies the following time you travel.
When you might be traveling short distances.
If your destination is just one or two time zones away, it might be possible to wake, eat, and sleep around your regular home schedule. At your destination, schedule appointments and activities for times once you'll be awake at home.
When you might be traveling long distances.
- Switch slowly before traveling. For several days before you allow, step by step move mealtimes and bedtimes closer to your destination's schedule. Even a partial switch might help.
- During the flight, drink loads of fluids, but no caffeine or alcohol. Caffeine and alcohol promote dehydration, which worsens the symptoms of jet lag. They can even disrupt sleep.
- Change your bedtime as soon as possible upon arrival. Don't go in until it's bedtime in the brand new time zone.
- Use the sun to allow you to adjust. If it's essential to get up early in the brand new setting (you have flown from west to east), get out within the sun early within the morning. If it's essential to get up later (you have flown from east to west), expose yourself to sunlight within the late afternoon.
If you are traveling on short notice otherwise you're coping with a very stubborn case of jet lag, ask your doctor about special timed doses of melatonin or remlatonin, which might help shift your circadian rhythm. If all else fails, a brief course of over-the-counter or prescription sleep aids may do the trick.
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