No matter how frequently you fly, you have undoubtedly experienced a case of jet lag.  Many travelers have developed their own remedies for recovering from this annoying side effect of air travel; however, much of their advice is not founded on comprehensive medical facts.

Jet lag is actually a byproduct that occurs when the human body’s internal clock is not synched with the current time zone in which it is located.  This causes a jet lag sufferer to feel tired during the day and although they may be tired at night, have difficulty falling and staying asleep.  There are two common causes of jet lag.

Dehydration

Travelers can easily become dehydrated due to the airplane’s thinner air as well as its air conditioning system coupled with high altitude travel.  In this case, dehydration is simple to counteract by sipping water during the flight and the subsequent 2-3 days after you arrive at your destination.  Alcoholic and caffeinated beverages should be avoided.

Sleep Deprivation

This happens when a traveler remains awake past their normal bedtime, causing them to not meet their required amount of sleep within 24 hours.  The obvious remedy for this is to get adequate rest.

If you can keep the issues of sleep deprivation and dehydration under control, you will be more likely to avoid jet lag symptoms.  However, a good number of travelers try to subdue the effects of jet lag by trying remedies such as popping sleeping pills or drinking liquor to lull them to sleep.  These types of jet lag solutions are not recommended as they are too extreme.  The following are better alternatives to fighting jet lag.

Sleep on the Plane

If you are departing during your normal period of sleep, attempt to get some rest on the airplane.  If you are having difficult because of the surrounding noise and activity, and you probably will, bring an eye mask and ear plugs in your carry-on bag in order to block out irritating lights and noises.  Eating a light meal before your flight is also helpful.

When Traveling Eastward

One you arrive at your destination, take a shower, go for a brisk walk, or visit the hotel’s gym.  Do anything you can think of to give your metabolism a little boost.  When it is time for bed, go to sleep in accordance with the time zone you are currently in.

When Traveling Westward

If you are traveling in a westward direction, the day will become longer, which means you should avoid daytime napping.  Just as when traveling eastward, rev up your metabolism and get to bed at a decent hour.  8pm or 9pm is an acceptable time.  Although this may seem early, the point is to avoid the sleep deprivation issues that become the springboard for jet lag.