Dryden
Brown Ltd
|
TRAVEL
HEALTH
JET LAG & ITS PREVENTION
Travel
to a different time zone usually disturbs the body's clock
(the circadian rhythm) which regulates appetite, bowels,
sleep and activity level and is controlled by a number of
hormones and other chemicals. The readjustment takes place
over a period of days. Readjustment takes longer if travelling
in an easterly direction.
It can take up to seven days to re-adjust to a significantly
different time zone.
On
long flights, the use of short acting sleeping tablets
may help to shorten the period of jet lag. A short acting
sleeping tablet can be taken to help fall asleep. If possible,
ensure your sleep will not be disturbed for a few hours.
For important meetings at your destination, always try
to arrive at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting.
Try to choose flights that arrive as close to night time
as possible.
Do not keep awake prior to a trip in order to make yourself
tired. During the flight, drink plenty of liquids but
avoid alcohol to prevent dehydration.
Try to avoid caffeine as this can cause restlessness and
disturb sleep.
Avoid large meals.
Avoid cigarette smoke.
Avoid napping, which will delay your adjustment to the
new time.
On arrival at your destination
For short trips, maintain your old schedule of eating
and sleeping at your usual time, if possible.
Maintain a sensible bedtime schedule.
If you usually exercise then do so at your destination.
To order
your copy of a What should I do? booklet
use one of the following methods:
On-line
Shop
Phone: +44 (0) 23 8022
9041
Fax: +44 (0) 23
8022 7274
 
|
