Jet lag is a bodily response to a rapid change in time zones. Some travelers can feel the effects of jet lag in as little as two time zones. It is more difficult to adjust to the time change when you travel east and lose hours than when you travel west and gain hours. Symptoms of jet lag include, restless sleeping, headaches, nausea, and tiredness. With proper planning before you depart, you can relieve the symptoms of jet lag.

Step 1

Try to adjust to your schedule at home to more closely match the time change in your destination a few days before you leave. This includes changing your eating and sleeping times.

Step 2

Get a restful sleep of at least seven to eight hours for two to three days before your departure date. You will feel more energized when you arrive in the new time zone if your body has had plenty of sleep in the previous nights.

Step 3

Stay hydrated during your flight and avoid caffeine and alcohol. Being dehydrated will make jet lag worse. Being in the airline cabin dehydrates you faster, so you should drink at least 3 to 4 liters of water to stay hydrated.

Step 4

Be active once you arrive in your new time zone. Natural light will energize you and if you stay busy you will feel less tired.

Step 5

Stay awake during the day and sleep only during the night once you arrive at your destination. This will acclimate your body to the new time zone as fast as possible.

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