Ways to Ease Jet Lag After an Overseas Trip

For many people, travelling by aeroplanes is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Whether it be for business or for leisure, most people are likely to fly at least once in their life. Some of them may take international trips. While travelling in an aeroplane has many pros, there is one major con associated with it - Jetlag. It is quite a common problem that affects many travellers after an international trip. It is caused by a disruption of the body's circadian rhythm, which controls our sleep-wake cycle. Common Jetlag symptoms include fatigue, insomnia, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Fortunately, there are some simple tips that can help ease jetlag after an overseas trip.

Jetlag: Definitions and Symptoms

Jetlag means your body’s internal clock, also known as circadian rhythm, is disrupted due to the change in time zones when flying from one country to another. This disruption is caused as your body takes time to get adjusted to the new time zone. Jetlag symptoms include:

• Tiredness
• Lack of sleep
• Gastric distress
• Mood swings
• Body ache

Tips to Beat Jetlag

Jetlag can be a tough thing to shake off as it takes a while to get adjusted to the new time zone. While there is no sure-fire jetlag treatment, you can use the following tips to manage it:

1. Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated is important for many reasons, including easing jetlag. Dehydration can worsen jetlag symptoms, so it's important to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate the body, and instead opt for water, herbal tea, or other non-caffeinated beverages.

2. Adjust your sleep schedule before your trip

If possible, adjust your sleep schedule a few days before your trip. If you are traveling to a destination that is several time zones ahead or behind your local time zone, gradually adjust your sleep schedule to match the destination's time zone. This can help ease the transition and minimize the effects of jetlag.

3. Get sunlight

Exposure to sunlight can help regulate the body's circadian rhythm and reduce the effects of jetlag. If you arrive at your destination during the day, spend some time outside in the sunlight. If you arrive at night, avoid bright lights and try to get as much sleep as possible.

4. Avoid napping

Although it may be tempting to take a nap after a long flight, it's best to avoid napping if possible. Napping can disrupt your sleep schedule and make it more difficult to adjust to the new time zone. Instead, try to stay awake until your normal bedtime in the new time zone.

5. Use natural remedies

There are several natural remedies that may help ease jetlag symptoms. These include melatonin, a natural sleep aid that can help regulate the body's sleep-wake cycle, and chamomile tea, which has a calming effect and can help promote sleep.

6. Exercise

Exercise can help regulate the body's circadian rhythm and reduce the effects of jetlag. Try to get some exercise after your flight, such as going for a walk or doing some light stretching. Exercise can also help reduce stress and improve mood, which can be beneficial after a long flight.

7. Eat a balanced diet

Eating a balanced diet can help ease jetlag by providing the body with the nutrients it needs to function properly. Try to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Avoid heavy meals, which can make you feel sluggish, and instead opt for smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.

8. Use technology

There are several apps and devices that can help ease jetlag by regulating the body's circadian rhythm. These include light therapy devices, which simulate natural light to help regulate sleep-wake cycles, and apps that provide tips and advice for managing jetlag.

Travel Insurance and Jetlag

The tips mentioned above can help you overcome the jetlag and the problems associated with it, but your travel insurance can also help deal with jetlag. The health problems associated with jetlag can sometimes get aggravated to a point where you might require medical attention. Being in a foreign country means having to pay more for the medical treatment. Your travel plan, however, provides financial coverage for the medical treatment sought by you.*

Conclusion

Jetlag can be a frustrating and disruptive problem for travellers, but there are several simple tips, such as the ones mentioned above that can help ease its effects. By following them, you can make the most of your overseas trip and enjoy all that your destination has to offer. You can secure your trip with the help of international travel insurance which provides financial coverage not just for medical expenses, but also for loss of baggage and emergency evacuation as well.*   *Standard T&C apply Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.