BLOG

Travel Health Tips: Jet Lag

Travel Health Tips: Jet lag

Jet lag is a temporary sleep disorder that can occur when you travel across multiple time zones quickly, which creates a disruption to your circadian rhythm or “internal clock”. This disruption can lead to fatigue, insomnia, digestive issues, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Here are some tips to help you minimize the effects of jet lag:

1. Adjust your sleep schedule before your trip: if you have the opportunity to adjust your sleep schedule to match the time zone of your destination. Your body will adapt more quickly to the new time zone and minimize the impact of jet lag.
2. Drink water: Dehydration worsens the symptoms of jet lag. It’s important you take in water before, during, and after your flight. Caffeine and alcohol lead to dehydration and should be avoided.
3. Use Melatonin supplements: Melatonin is a hormone which regulates your sleep. Taking a melatonin supplement can help reset your body’s internal clock and alleviate the symptoms of jet lag. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about which supplements are right for you.
4. Take a nap: Taking a short nap (about 30mins) can help you feel more alert and refreshed during the day, especially if you feel tired. Try not to take long naps as this can interfere with your sleep at night and prolong the symptoms of jet lag.
5. Get sunlight and exercise: Exposure to sunlight can help reset your body’s internal clock and alleviate jet lag. Try to go outside and get some sunlight during the day, and consider exercising to help your body adjust to a new time zone.

Combining all of the above can certainly help you keep the symptoms of jet lag to a minimum. Speak to the Live Well team at Pharmasave Summerland about how you can stay healthy while you travel.

Dan Cassidy – Nutritional Product Advisor