Friday, January 18, 2008

Avoid Sickness In Paradise: Prevent Jet Lag

One of the worst parts of air travel is handling jet lag. Jet
lag is basically your body's inability to adjust to the
destination's time as it passes through multiple time zones. For
the inexperienced traveler (and some experienced ones) it can
put a cramp in your business or holiday plans especially if your
trip is only a few days.

The main symptoms of jet lag are fatigue and tiredness. This can
be accompanied by headaches, dizziness, muscle soreness, a
feeling of sickness and odd eating patterns. Being tired while
on your holiday, especially if you're planning on doing a lot of
sightseeing or physical activity can make if difficult to have
an enjoyable time.

To prevent jet lag you have to start before your trip. Ensure
you are relaxed and stress free before you leave for the
airport. Don't drink caffeinated drinks and while alcohol may
relax you it also dehydrates which can contribute to jet lag.
Also consider doing some light exercise such as yoga or running
but nothing that will make your muscles sore. Exercising aids
your body's sleep patterns.

Once on your flight, try to make yourself as comfortable as
possible. Consider accessories that will help you such as neck
pillows and eye masks. Take off your shoes and get pillows and
blankets before the plane takes off. Since dehydration
contributes to jet lag, bring a large bottle of water. Drink
lots of water even if you don't feel thirsty.

After take off, set your watch to the destination time. The rule
of thumb is to sleep if it's bed time at your destination and
stay awake (or just take a small nap) if not. If you need to
sleep consider taking a light sleep aid and if you're worried
about missing the meal service then just let the cabin crew know
to wake you. Again, avoid consuming alcohol. It may help you
sleep but in the long run it will make jet lag worse. If you
feel like a drink then just have one and drink extra water to
keep hydrated. If you're awake, get out of your seat and do some
simple stretches to reduce muscle tension.

Some travelers swear by Melatonin pills to prevent jet lag.
Tests show that your body's clock is influenced by the hormone
Melatonin. It is secreted when your body is exposed to a lack of
light so when it's dark it's like a natural sleeping pill. You
can force this hormone by taking Melatonin pills which can be
purchased over the counter at most drug stores.

Once you arrive at your destination adjust to the time as soon
as possible. If you are tired in the middle of the day don't
crash but take a small nap and then get to bed early. Sleeping
during the middle of the day and staying awake at night will
only prolong jet lag.

If you use these preventative tips you will arrive at your
destination rested with minimal jet lag and ready to enjoy your
trip.

About the author:
Focusing recent findings in Benidorm, Vince Paxton published
almost entirely for
http://www.alicante-spain.com/torrevieja.html . You can have a
look at his contributions on href="http://www.alicante-spain.com">Alicante on his site.

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