How to Beat Jet Lag: Use These Lifehacks

How phenomenal is it that we can travel to other places by having a seat in the sky? With all of the preparation and stress associated with traveling and flying, things can get exhausting pretty quickly.

Jet lag occurs when traveling across time zones. Our circadian rhythm is what tells our bodies when to stay awake versus when to go to sleep. Jet lag is most commonly about when this internal understanding, or your “body clock” is still synced to the time zone that you are accustomed to.

What Jet Lag Looks Like

Though the condition is temporary, it can dip into the experience or effectiveness of a trip fast. Some symptoms include:

• Digestive issues, constipation, diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Insomnia, early waking, excessive sleepiness
• Mood swings

Beat the Lag

Preventing jet lag is never guaranteed, but you stand a chance with these hacks.

Try to Adapt

Try adjusting to the time zone you will be traveling to by changing your sleep schedule and habits before you go. Research the time in proximity to your lodging and activities. Although traveling can be unpredictable, try to establish a general window that you might fall in and replicate it the best you can at least a week in advance.

Arrive Early

If you’re traveling for a specific event and can swing some extra days, take a day before and after to promote recovery. If you can’t coordinate more time on the trip, try to do so for the days once you return.

Supplements

Consider taking supplements like melatonin, or CBD for sleep. Try probiotic supplements to avoid digestive issues, or other natural remedies to improve upset stomach.

Stay Hydrated

Make sure to make drinking water a conscious act before, during, and after travel. Need help with how to get your water in? Take a look at these tips.

Pay Attention to Your Nutrition

Tasting new foods in different places is a staple activity, but make sure you understand where your gut stands before you go. Eat full, nutritious meals and stay away from any eating habits that are drastically different than your own.

Put Your Phone Away

If you’re struggling to realign your body clock, making sure to end your screen time at an appropriate point can help. If you’re taking and sharing pictures, or just curious about things going on elsewhere, you may be tempted to end up scrolling. Instead, establish the point that you need to power off.

Jet lag can be a drag, but with these hacks—you don’t have to be.