Jetlag Hits Differently Depending on Your Travel Direction. Here Are 6 Tips to Get Over It

What Causes Jetlag?

Jetlag is a physical and cognitive symptom that occurs when traveling quickly across several time zones. Before departing, your body is synchronized with your local time. However, once you enter a new timezone, your body’s rhythms no longer align with the local clock. This is when jetlag symptoms appear, including feeling sleepy when you want to be awake and wide awake when you want to be asleep.

Jetlag Isn’t the Same for Everyone

Interestingly, the experience of jetlag varies between people. This is because we all have a unique internal rhythm. Most of us have a natural daily cycle of about 24.2 hours. Researchers believe this is an evolutionary adaptation that allows us to adjust to different day lengths across the year.

However, some people have slightly longer cycles than others, which may play a role in how they experience jetlag. Research suggests that if you have a longer cycle, you might adjust quicker to westward travel, but we don’t know if a shorter cycle helps going the other way. Additionally, we get less resilient as we age, so older individuals might experience worse jetlag symptoms.

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Does Direction of Travel Matter?

Many people find westward travel, where you "gain" time, easier. For instance, if you travel from Australia to South Africa, you might find it easier to adjust. On the other hand, traveling eastward, where you "lose" time, can be more challenging.

Is Jetlag Just ‘Psychological’?

Some people might wonder if jetlag is just in your head. While it’s true that it’s a mismatch between your body’s internal time and local time, it’s not just a psychological condition. It’s a physiological condition that requires your body to adjust to a new timezone.

6 Tips to Alleviate Jetlag Symptoms

Luckily, there are several simple ways to alleviate jetlag symptoms and help your body clock adjust:

1. Decide whether to adapt to the new time or not: If it’s a short trip, it might be better to stay on your home time. If it’s longer than three days, start consciously moving your own rhythms towards the new timezone.
2. Start adjusting on the plane: Set your watch to your destination’s timezone and line up your activities accordingly.
3. Keep caffeine and alcohol intake low: This will help with sleep and hydration, and aid in adjusting your body clock to the new timezone.
4. Sleep during local nighttime and rest during the day: Try to sleep during the local night time and just rest when you need to at other times. Short naps can give you a boost to get through the day and evening activities.
5. Gastrointestinal discomfort is a symptom of jet lag: If you’re prone to or experience tummy trouble while traveling, stick to small meals and eat when you’re hungry.
6. Get outside: Sunlight is key to adjusting to a new timezone. Depending on your timezone change, appropriately-timed outside activities will help.

Conclusion

Jetlag is a real physiological condition that requires your body to adjust to a new timezone. While it can be challenging, there are several simple ways to alleviate symptoms and help your body clock adjust. By following these tips, you can minimize the effects of jetlag and enjoy your trip.

FAQs

Q: Is jetlag a psychological condition?
A: No, jetlag is a physiological condition that requires your body to adjust to a new timezone.

Q: Does direction of travel matter?
A: Yes, some people find westward travel easier, while others find eastward travel more challenging.

Q: Can I talk myself out of jetlag?
A: No, jetlag is not just in your head. It’s a real physiological condition that requires your body to adjust to a new timezone.

Q: Are there any other tips to alleviate jetlag symptoms?
A: Yes, consult the Sleep Health Foundation for more tips.