Ways to Fight Jet Lag

Studies show that there are eating habits that can help fight the effects of jet lag, including before, during, and after your flight. • The most important key to avoiding jet lag is hydration. Drink plenty of water and avoid dehydrating foods and drinks – such as salty snacks, caffeine, and alcohol. • A 2016 study published in the Psychology & Health Journal said that long-haul flight attendants who adhered to a meal schedule instead of eating whenever they wanted suffered fewer jet lag symptoms. Keep your own eating schedule and skip the snacks. • Starting out your travel day well-rested is a big help in fighting jet lag. Consuming carbs the night before a flight can increase serotonin levels in your brain, and serotonin helps you sleep. • Focus on protein when you land to trigger your brain’s production of norepinephrine and dopamine, which make you more alert. Carry some protein-rich foods with you, which may not be easy to find depending on where you’re going (peanut or almond butter with crackers, protein bars, or hard aged cheese that doesn’t need to be refrigerated). • Eat foods that naturally contain melatonin, a sleep aid, to help your body adjust to new time zones. Cherries are a great source of melatonin (dried cherries work, and are easier to transport than fresh cherries), as is fresh ginger.