If your travel plans include flying across several time zones, it's pretty likely you're going to get hit with jet lag. To make sure you're sharp for your business meeting, or to avoid wasting part of your vacation recovering from the flight, it helps to take some preventive measures.
Jet lag is the disruption of your circadian rhythms, the internal body clock that tells you when it's time to sleep and when it's time to be awake. You generally need one day of recovery for every time zone you cross.
Symptoms
Jet lag can include any of the following symptoms:
Despite some opinions to the contrary, there is no scientifically proven method or pill that will cure jet lag. However, there are a few things you can do to lessen its effects.
Before You Board the Plane
On the Plane
When You Arrive
Some studies suggest that melatonin can help prevent jet lag. Melatonin is a hormone that your body secretes to help you sleep through the night. By taking small doses of melatonin before and during your trip, you may be able to help prevent jet lag. Consult your doctor for more information. The US Food and Drug Administration doesn't regulate the use of melatonin, so be careful when purchasing it over the counter.
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