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Jet Leg Remedies

By Diane Hanson

Jet lag, in simple terms, is the disruption of your body's internal clock. Your body reacts with the sudden change of time by developing symptoms such as indigestion, disorientation, irritability, insomnia and even constipation.

How long the jet lag lasts depends on how many time zones you travel. A rule of thumb is that the number of time zones you travel is the number of days it will take you to completely recover.

If you don’t want to spend the first day of your vacation, feeling irritated and lousy, these tips will help you cure jet lag and feel refreshed after a long flight.

What Helps with Jet Lag?

1. Stay Hydrated

Have plenty of non-carbonated drinks (juice or water) and avoid alcoholic drinks before, during and after your flight.

Pressurized cabins would only increase the influence of alcohol. Hydration reduces headaches and other discomfort associated with jet lag.

2. Adjust Schedule

To avoid jet lag, regulate your sleep cycles to the time table of your destination, a week prior to travel. This helps you to adjust your body clock, which will alleviate the many symptoms of jet lag.

3. Avoid Caffeine

Caffeine can disturb your sleep patterns and make insomnia worse. Also, stay away from all the greasy and fatty foods. Instead, have healthy and easily digested foods. For example, whole wheat crackers would be much better than a burger and may help you avoid jet lag.

4. Keep Moving

If possible, move around on the plane as keeping active will help you stay energized and refreshed. You should walk the aisles periodically and do simple stretching exercises in your seat.

Upon arrival at your destination, it is a good idea to spend a little time to exercise.

5. Sunlight

A well known remedy to cure jet lag is to expose yourself to the sun during the day. This helps your body to adjust to the time zone and cure jet lag symptoms.

6. Melatonin

Melatonin is the hormone responsible for regulating sleep cycles. Take a melatonin supplement, about 30 to 60 minutes before your bedtime will help you to fall asleep at normal hours when you are at your new location.

7. Valerian

Valerian is a herb that can help to induce sleep. For jet lag, it is used to help adjust to new time zones by helping travelers fall asleep at their desired time. Unlike prescription sleep aids, Valerian is not addictive and does not cause grogginess the next morning.

With a little planning ahead, jet lag does not have to ruin your vacation or business trip.

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