Jet lag is an increasing problem. As more and more people  travel further both for pleasure and business, the chances of suffering from jet lag increases. Learn here a few simple solutions to reduce the misery of jet lag.

Jet Lag And How To Avoid It

Take a morning flight where possible and upon arrival at your destination have a light meal then go to bed.

 Try not to become over tired before you travel. The fallacy of having a late night party before you fly with very little sleep so you can sleep on the flight will often have the reverse effect. It may alleviate the boredom, but will do little to adjust your body clock.

Set a separate clock or watch to the time zone of your destination 4 - 5 days before your departure. Using this, become aware of your intended breakfast time and increase your alertness, by being a little more active.

Caffeine intake should be avoided  2 - 3 days before your flight and only taken when your clock shows it is morning at your destination.

Change all watches when you board for your flight , this will subconsciously help you to adjust your body clock.

Avoid alcohol on the flight, keep up your fluid intake with soft drinks or weak tea.

Stay active during your flight, magazines, books and quizzes will often help. Don't just rely on one book and avoid sleeping.

Adjust your eating pattern on the flight to the new time zone and avoid overeating.

Move around the aircraft at least once an hour to help with your circulation.

When you arrive at your destination after unpacking have a quick shower, then take a short stroll to gently exercise your muscles. Then eat a very light meal and go to bed.

Leave the bedroom curtains or blinds open a little bit, so that the natural morning sunrise will help to waken you.

The following day, if you feel the onslaught of jet lag and want to go to sleep, try to find an activity to do,  socialising can often alleviate the jet lag. Don't drink any alcohol until the evening.

If you are unfortunate to still be suffering from jet lag, don't worry it will usually disappear with 48hrs. Interestingly enough some say jet lag is purely a state of mind, if this should be the case, then avoid comparing time zones and thinking about what time it is back home.

There is also another thought that people often say regarding jet lag - you only suffer when flying East to West and never when flying West to East ! Interesting concept, if you have any experience of this, do leave a comment.

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