Medical evidence also shows that jet lag makes travelers more susceptible to colds, flu, and stomach upsets.

What Causes Jet Lag?

The greatest cause of jet lag is rapid transit across world time zones. The more time zones we cross, the greater the disruption of our body clock (which governs our temperature, heartbeat, blood pressure, and physiological patterns), resulting in disorientation and mental and physical fatigue.

Sitting still for long periods of time in flight causes discomfort and possible swelling of the legs and feet. The dry atmosphere in airliner cabins can cause body dehydration. Altitude and pressure changes at each landing and takeoff also upset body systems, and although airliner cabins are pressurized, these changes are significant causes of jet lag.

It hardly seems that so many problems could result from merely traveling in an aircraft. So what can you do?

Start Rested

The preparation for a long trip often means you're tired before you begin. If at all possible, get enough rest in the days prior to your trip, so you can start out strong and full of energy.

Sleep

It's best if you can sleep on the plane. Earplugs, eyeshades, and a comfortable neck pillow are well worth the effort of packing if they prevent you from losing a day to jet lag. Try to take care of as many travel details as possible before you leave so that flight day is stress and anxiety-free, and wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Set your watch to the destination time as soon as you board the plane.

Many travelers have depended successfully on No-Jet-Lag to help them feel fresh on arrival. It's a surprisingly effective, natural homeopathic product that addresses all the symptoms of jet lag, not just sleeplessness.

While a drink or two may relax you, alcohol can dehydrate you, making your symptoms worse. Also, Flight Safety Expert Diana Fairechild (author of Jet Smarter) says "Avoid sleeping pills and mind-altering pharmaceuticals on the day you fly. In the event of an emergency, you will need all your faculties in order to survive."

Drink Water

Lots of it. Plan on 8 to 16 ounces during each hour of travel. Taking your own water bottle can save you the awkwardness of repeatedly pressing the "call button" for another glass of water, and will help you resist caffeinated and sugared drinks, which can actually make you more dehydrated. Have a nice, long hot bath when you arrive to rehydrate and relax.

Exercise

The long periods of sitting on an airplane, bus, or train are hard on your body. Walking and stretching exercises in flight will help your body adjust to the new climate. To help reset your body clock, try to stay awake until bedtime rather than taking a nap upon arrival - spending time outdoors seems to help most travelers.

Experience

As you travel, experiment to find the system that works best for you. Some travelers forswear all naps, others insist on them. Keeping note of your experiences will help you get the most from future trips. Consult with fellow travelers, too. Their experiences can help you avoid days lost to jet lag discomfort. Ask your travel agent for scheduling options that have you landing early evening so you can go to bed and start fresh the next day. It might cost a little more but it’s money well spent.

One package of No Jet Lag tablets will cover 50 flying hours. That’s enough to get you to Australia and back.

No Jet Lag tablets, eye masks, travel pillows and earplugs are available at:

2230 Cliffe Ave., Courtenay, BC

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