Jet Lag

What it is
Jet lag is a disturbance of the body’s 24-hour sleep-wake biorhythms due to flying across several time zones, especially in an eastwards direction which shortens the traveller’s day. Moving across the Earth’s magnetic field from one pole to another may also play a role (See page). Jet lag is most likely to affect people over 30 who normally follow an established daily routine, causing symptoms of general disorientation, fatigue, poor memory, insomnia, headaches, irritability, poor concentration, decreased mental ability and reduced immunity.

Self help measures:
If flying east, try going to bed earlier than usual for several nights before traveling.
If flying west, stay up later than usual for several nights before leaving.
During the flight, drink plenty of fluids, avoid alcohol, only eat light meals and sleep as much as possible.
Take high dose antioxidants (eg vitamin C 1g – 3 g with bioflavonoids per day; vitamin E 400 i.u. daily) before, during and after travelling.
Also take high strength vitamin B complex (eg 50 – 100mg) twice a day during the flight and for the first 2 days after arrival.

Applying magnetic patches
Apply a magnetic patch to the centre of the forehead for half an hour once the plane has landed.