We at Central Heating and Air Conditioning know that traveling this holiday season to see your loved ones can be an unforgettable experience. That is, unless you’re half-asleep throughout the trip because of severe jet lag. Jet lag recovery time greatly depends on how many time zones you cross. Crossing 6 time zones, for instance, could take your body up to 5 days to adjust.
Follow these Do’s and Don’ts from the National Sleep Foundation and Fodor’s Travel to beat jet lag:
Do’s
Drink plenty of water
In order to prevent jet lag, stay hydrated. Try to drink at least 8 ounces of water for every hour of the flight.
Book an overnight flight
If you don’t have trouble sleeping on a plane, take an overnight flight. This will help you maintain your regular sleep schedule and make it easier to adjust to time zone changes.
Reset your watch
As soon as you board, set your watch to the time at your destination to help you mentally prepare for the time change.
Simulate your schedule ahead of time
A few days before departure, shift the time you normally go to sleep to align with the time of your destination. If you’re traveling east, adapt to the new time by waking up earlier and going to bed earlier than normal. Heading west? Do the opposite. (This is known as advancing your body clock.)
Spend time outside
Light is a stimulant for regulating the biological clock. When you arrive at your destination, spend time outside in the sunlight and get fresh air.
DON’Ts
Drink caffeine
Getting enough sleep is key to overcoming jet lag. Caffeine may prevent you from napping on your flight and can interrupt your total sleep time, causing you to wake up more often.
Put off sleep
While it may be tempting to try and stay awake before your flight so that you can get some shuteye in the air, avoid the urge. Starting out sleep-deprived will only worsen jet lag symptoms.
Eat heavy meals
Steer clear of large meals that are high in fat and salt prior to takeoff. They are harder to digest and can result in restlessness and poor sleep. Stick to lighter meals with a mix of protein, complex carbohydrates, and plant-based foods.
Sit still for an extended period
Sitting stationary for hours can make you more susceptible to jet lag symptoms. Move around to keep your blood circulating – even if it means just taking a walk to the restroom during your flight.
We at Central Heating and Air Conditioning hope you and your family have a very happy holiday season.
