Airlines gather to discuss aviation matters in South Africa
Airlines gather to discuss aviation matters in South Africa. Photo: iStockPhoto

Home » Jet Lag: Eight top tips to help you beat it

Jet Lag: Eight top tips to help you beat it

If you’re travelling soon and want to ensure you leave your jet lag on the plane, here are a few great tips to remember…

13-01-24 09:48
Airlines gather to discuss aviation matters in South Africa
Airlines gather to discuss aviation matters in South Africa. Photo: iStockPhoto

Jet lag occurs when your body’s internal clock is disrupted due to crossing multiple time zones, resulting in symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, and irritability. While it’s challenging to completely avoid jet lag, here are a few great tips that may help minimize its effects…

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1. ADJUST YOUR SCHEDULE BEFORE DEPARTURE

Gradually shifting your sleeping and eating times a few days before your trip to align with the destination time zone might be a great help to start your body adjusting in advance.

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2. STAY HYDRATED

Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight. Dehydration can worsen the symptoms of jet lag, so it’s essential to stay well-hydrated.

3. AVOID ALCOHOL AND CAFFEINE

Both alcohol and caffeine can disrupt your sleep patterns and contribute to dehydration. Limit your intake during and after the flight, especially close to bedtime.

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4. GET SUNLIGHT EXPOSURE

Spend time outdoors in natural sunlight upon arrival. Exposure to natural light helps regulate your circadian rhythm and signals to your body that it’s time to be awake.

5. NAP STRATEGICALLY

Short naps (20-30 minutes) can help combat fatigue, but avoid long naps that can interfere with your ability to adjust to the new time zone.

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6. STAY ACTIVE

Engage in light physical activity upon arrival to help reset your internal clock. This could include a short walk or some stretching exercises.

7. STICK TO THE LOCAL SCHEDULE

Adapt to the local time as quickly as possible. Eat meals and go to bed at the local times, even if it feels off initially.

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8. STAY AWAKE UNTIL LOCAL BEDTIME

If you arrive at your destination in the morning or afternoon, resist the urge to take a long nap if you’re feeling jet lagged. Instead, try to stay awake until the local bedtime to help your body adjust.