Beat Jet Lag

Jet lag is caused when you travel through multiple time zones. These changes in time zones confuse your body’s 24-hour inner clock – which throws off your “circadian rhythms.”

Your circadian rhythms control the timing of the release of hormones and chemicals to let you know when you should be hungry, sleepy, etc.

Symptoms of Jet lag include fatigue, insomnia, disorientation, headaches, and irregularity.

It normally takes about one day to adjust for each time zone you cross. Jet lag is often worse travelling eastward. However, flying north or south within the same time zone does not seem to cause jet lag.

Overall health, habits, and age all play a big part in how badly someone suffers from jet lag. Being well rested can help reduce its symptoms – whereas overeating, smoking and drinking alcohol can exaggerate the effects of jet lag.

Tips for dealing with Jet Lag:

• Exercise while airborne and upon arrival will help circulate your blood and you will feel rejuvenated.

• Adjust your sleep time before you leave on your trip to match your destination time zone.

• Don’t stay on your home time zone. Change your watch to your destination time zone.

• Meals high in protein stimulate wakefulness. Carbohydrate rich meals promote sleep.

• Use caffeine drinks to help you stay awake until your new bedtime at your destination.

• Eat high-fibre foods to fight constipation and avoid fatty foods.

• Drink LOTS of water.

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