Reduce Jet Lag when Traveling Abroad

By Elizabeth Gregory

Just about everyone who has flown across at least 3 time zones has experienced jet lag. Supposedly it takes one full day per time zone for your body to fully adjust. This means that if you're flying from New York to Paris, you will need about 6 days to be adjusted. Not a good thing if you're on a quick 3-4 day trip. Although jet lag is different for everyone, the symptoms of jet lag can be physical and mental.

Here are some tips on how to reduce the jet lag you experience:

• Set your watch to the new time in advance.
• Try to eat and sleep on the new schedule a day or two in advance if possible.
• Only sleep on the plane if it's night at the new destination.
• Drink plenty of water.
• There are differing opinions about sleeping or staying up when you get to your destination. If you are really tired, a short power nap might help. Don't nap too long or you may feel worse.

Flyana had some interesting facts. I was stunned to find out that airplane cabin air is dryer than a desert and that meals are served at times that will increase your jetlag.

We'd love to hear any tips that you have...