During a long trip, crossing three or even four time zones, it is extremely likely that the traveler may run into the consequences of jet lag, causing real symptoms that can disturb them on multiple levels.
What Is Jet Lag?
Jet lag is a sleep-wake rhythm diachrony that causes a temporary sleep disturbance. Jet lag is typical of long air travel when travelers cross many time zones.
Jet lag can cause discomfort in the first few days of vacation and the days following the return trip. Among its main negative effects, besides disturbed sleep, there may also be excessive sleepiness during the day, difficulty falling asleep and resting at night, and a general, albeit mild, discomfort.
What Are the Consequences of Jet Lag?
The consequences of jet lag are highly personal and subjective. However, it is common for those who have traveled to experience poor appetite, constipation, and dyspepsia – due to altered meal times – but also headaches and difficulty concentrating.
The number of trips, especially in a short period, influences the consequences of jet lag: Over time, the brain can learn to react better, but there is also the possibility that post-jet lag symptoms become a chronic problem.
How to Avoid Jet Lag?
To avoid jet lag, adjusting to the new country’s schedule is crucial, trying to avoid daytime naps and regularizing the bedtime at night.
Before sleeping, one must ensure the ideal situation is created. The room should be dark and quiet, with no TV or smartphones. Lights interfere with the secretion of melatonin, which is essential in regulating sleep.
It is essential to avoid cigarettes and high-calorie foods in the evening hours.
Should the adjustment to the new time zone prove too long, possible remedies can be used to mitigate the effects of jet lag.
Does Melatonin Help Reduce Jet Lag?
You can easily buy products (syrups, tablets, drops, etc.) containing melatonin in pharmacies.
Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland that regulates the body’s circadian rhythm, which is naturally stimulated by darkness.
Taking it helps to naturally synchronize the sleep-wake cycle with the new schedule to reduce jet lag. Take it every day, 30 minutes before bedtime.
Melatonin After a Long Flight
When returning from a long trip, jet lag can be experienced. To treat it, melatonin can be used in the same way for about a week.
If jet lag is related to recurrent headaches – after a necessary neurological examination – you can take magnesium continuously and use analgesics while avoiding their abuse.
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