Jet lag can cause you to feel ill as well as tired, and it can ruin a trip.
Fortunately, there are ways to prepare for time zone transitions.
This article explains the signs of jet lag and strategies to help you avoid it or manage the symptoms.
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Until the circadian rhythm is reset, jet lag symptoms persist.
But if you cross oceans and continents it will be more challenging.
How quickly you switch time zones matters as well.
Finally, the direction of travel impacts circadian rhythms.
You may have heard a frequent traveler say, “East is a beast, west is best.”
To reset yourself, have a go at stay awake on the plane and when you arrive.
See the Light
The most important factor in resetting your body clock is light.
Go for a walk, eat breakfast outside, or just sit in the sun and read.
Keeping a regular bedtime and wake time with morning light exposure will help a great deal.
The longer the time discrepancy, the longer it can take to overcome jet lag.
It is on average a day for each hour of time change.
2017;49(12):2548-2561. doi:10.1249/mss.0000000000001374
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Jet lag.
Better Health Channel.Jet lag.
Kryger, MH et al.Principles and Practice of Sleep Medicine.
Elsevier, 5th edition, 2011.
