What is Jet Lag?

What is Jet Lag? What is Jet Lag? Jet lag is a temporary sleeping disorder that causes insomnia, fatigue and other symptoms resulting from traveling across time zones by air. Essentially, jet lag throws the internal clock of the traveler out of sync with the new external environment. Different time zones present external stimuli including sunshine and local timetables that are different from the typical patterns the traveler follows. These new patterns make it difficult for the traveler to maintain his or her internal, routine sleep-wake pattern. When the traveler attempts to adjust their internal clock to the new external environment, jet lag symptoms begin to set in. Common Jet Lag Symptoms Some of the most common jet lag symptoms include: Fatigue and general tiredness Insomnia Disorientation and confusion Loss of concentration and drive Headaches General malaise Anxiety Interrupted sleep Dehydration How to Avoid Jet Lag Fortunately, medical doctors understand the many symptoms of jet lag along with the remedies that offer relief from those symptoms. Here are some remedies along with tips on how to avoid jet lag and experience a more pleasant trip. Melatonin Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland in the brain that is responsible for the circadian rhythm, or the internal body clock that regulates sleep and wake-cycles. The role that melatonin plays in jet lag is significant, as sudden and excessive exposure to daylight during normal bedtime hours can disrupt the melatonin cycle. The effects of jet lag and melatonin can occur in as little as a three-hour time difference. Melatonin supplements are among the most effective jet lag remedies, helping the body adjust to new surroundings more quickly and thus reducing the effects of jet lag. Strategic Sleep and Wake-Time Adjustment Preventative jet lag remedies can also help you minimize or avoid jet lag. By utilizing the strategic sleep and wake-time adjustment method, people can adjust their regular sleep and wake-time to the new time progressively for three days prior to traveling. Remember to plan your sleep and wake-times based on the direction you are traveling. When traveling west: Go to bed and wake one hour later than normal on day one Go to bed and wake two hours later than normal on day two Go to bed and wake three hours later than normal on day three This jet lag remedy should prepare and pre-adjust your body for the new western time zone. When traveling east, apply the same strategy only go to bed and wake one hour earlier each consecutive day for three days prior to traveling. Homeopathic Jet Lag Remedies The following homeopathic jet lag remedies are available in health food stores, drug stores, airport convenient stores and some grocery stores, and may provide relief from specific jet lag symptoms: Chamomilla Emotional and mental stress Sleeplessness Impatience Intolerance Disorientation Arnica Sleeplessness and restlessness when overtired Ipecacuanha Intense and constant nausea Bellis perennis Sleep interruptions and waking mid-sleep Lycopodium Anxiety Apprehension Digestive problems, especially bloating and gas Valerian Valerian is an herb used as a jet lag remedy to help people fall asleep at their desired time. Valerian is a non-addictive remedy that does not cause grogginess the following morning. Feast and Fast-Day Alternating Diet Beginning three days prior to departure, alternate feast and fast days, consisting of the following foods to synchronize and adapt your body to the new time zone: Day One: Feast day - Eat predominantly high-protein foods for breakfast and lunch to stimulate the production of epinephrine, norepinephrine and dopamine in the body to remain awake and alert. Eat carbohydrates for dinner to stimulate melatonin production in the body. Day Two: Fast day – Eat light meals such as salads and soups to deplete the store of glycogen (muscle fuel) in the body and reset the internal clock. Day Three: Feast Day – Follow the same guidelines as in day one. Day Four: Fast Day –Follow the same guidelines as in day two and get as much sleep as you can until breakfast time at your destination. Through proper planning and the utilization of these jet lag tips and remedies, you can help prepare your body for the time adjustment and minimize or even avoid jet lag symptoms. Disclaimer: These statements and products are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult your physician regarding any sleeping disorders.