FREQUENT FLYING

Could it be affecting your health?

Is frequent flying affecting your health?

Dealing with jetlag

Jetlag occurs when there is a temporary mismatch between sleep-wake cycle timing. It results from an imbalance in our body's natural "biological clock" caused by travelling to different time zones. In general, eastward travel causes more severe jet lag than westward travel (i.e., moving the clock ahead is harder than moving it back), this is because the biological clock can adjust better when bedtime and waking occur at a later hour.

Research shows that jetlag has a negative impact on our body and performance.

We know that a productive and energetic day starts with a good night’s sleep. When travelling to different parts of the world, different climates and time zones, this may stress your body and affect your sleep.

To maintain your energy levels and travel well-rested, you need to:

1.Stay fit

Sleep well
Stay hydrated
Eat healthy

2. Adopt a sleeping routine

When flying to a different time zone, start adjusting your night-day rhythm a few days before your travel date:

If travelling to a time zone that is a few hours ahead, you should go to bed an hour later every night for 3-4 nights
Go to bed earlier if travelling to a time zone that is a few hours behind.

Your body will better adapt to the new time zone and you will feel less jetlagged.

On board the flight

Sleeping on board a flight or even in hotels and different settings can be troublesome for many. You can try to make your surroundings a bit more comfortable by:

Timing and adapting your sleep
Bringing an eye mask
Being prepared: research your destination in advance and plan your day ahead to avoid unnecessary stress

In some cases, your doctor may prescribe you pills to help you sleep on the flight and get over jetlag.