Jet lagged? Here’s your survival guide to conquering time zone turbulence

Have you ever felt really tired or out of sorts after flying to a different place? That’s called jet lag.

It can happen when you travel a long way, especially if you cross three or more time zones.

Jet lag messes with your body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm) and can lead to symptoms like headaches, trouble sleeping and just not being your best self.

Travellers can also feel sleepy during the day, have tummy troubles or feel grumpy and less excited about things. 

Medical experts say that when you fly east, the jet lag can feel worse than when you fly west. This is because your body finds it easier to stay up late than to sleep early.

So, if you are heading to a place that is ahead in time, you might feel more tired and out of place.

There are ways to help your body adjust when you travel a long distance.

Here are some tips:

Change your schedule early: A few days before you travel, try to go to bed and wake up a little earlier or later, depending on where you are going.

Choose your flights wisely: Picking flights that allow you to sleep well in a proper bed can help your body feel better when you arrive.

Get plenty of sunshine: When you arrive, spending time outside in the sunlight can help wake you up and get your body to understand it's time to be awake.

Keep hydrated: The air on an airplane is extremely dry, so make sure to drink lots of water. Avoid drinks such as soda, alcohol and coffee. 

Exercise: During the flight, get out of your seat and do some deep knee-bends or walk up and down the aisle a few times during intervals. 

Skip new foods: Eating familiar foods may help your tummy feel better right after you land.

Remember that some things can increase your chances of getting jet lag. These include your age, how much sleep you got before your flight, how stressed you are and how much caffeine or alcohol you drink before and during your travels.

All these can mix up your body’s natural rhythm and make it harder to adjust.

Once you arrive at your destination, it’s good to stick to your new sleep schedule right away. This means sleeping when it’s bedtime, where you are and waking up at the right time. 

Next time you travel, remember these tips to help your body adjust quickly and keep jet lag at bay.