The Jet Lag Juggle: How to Arrive Refreshed Instead of Fatigued
Jet lag can be frustrating, so it’s important to understand how to stay refreshed while traveling. When flying across time zones, your circadian rhythm is disrupted, throwing off your internal clock. This can lead to fatigue, sleep disruption, and difficulty concentrating, common symptoms of jet lag.
According to Dr. Melissa O’Meara, an internal medicine physician at Colorado Mountain Medical, a partner of Vail Health, prioritizing sleep and hydration is key to minimizing jet lag. “Sleep is your body’s best tool for recalibration,” she explains. “Even if you can’t fall asleep on the plane, resting your body and avoiding overstimulation can help.”
To improve your chances of sleeping, you can avoid blue light, engage in relaxing activities, and consider mimicking a bedtime routine by changing your clothes, brushing your teeth, and using eye masks and earplugs. Even if you can’t fall asleep, simply resting your body can be beneficial.
Staying hydrated and maintaining proper nutrition are also important. Flying dehydrates the body, so avoid alcohol and sugary drinks and focus on drinking plenty of water. Additionally, packing nutritious snacks such as trail mix, protein bars, and fresh-cut veggies can help you avoid jet lag and start your vacation on the right foot.
