By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team
 

For travelers who love going abroad or need to take long-haul flights, the most troublesome thing might not be the complicated entry procedures, but the invisible burden and discomfort that jet lag brings to the body—not only reducing judgment ability but also greatly diminishing travel quality.

● What is jet lag?
Jet lag is caused by long-distance travel across time zones, which affects the body's internal clock, leading to various discomforts as the body temporarily fails to adapt.
● How long does it take to adjust to jet lag?

The time needed to adjust to jet lag varies depending on each person’s physical condition. Some people may adjust in just one or two days, while others might need up to a week.

● How can you adjust to jet lag?
→ Start adjusting your sleep schedule before departure
The direction of travel determines differences in biological time. If your destination is eastward, that means the local time will be ahead of your current time. It’s recommended to go to bed two hours earlier in the days leading up to departure, allowing your body to gradually adapt to the changes brought by the new time zone. (If traveling westward, do the opposite.)
→ Avoid caffeine and alcohol
Coffee, tea, soda, and anything else that can affect sleep are not helpful for adjusting to jet lag. Try to avoid these substances before, during, and after your flight. On the other hand, remember to drink plenty of water to allow your body to rest properly and recover more quickly.
※ On the plane, try to avoid reading magazines or watching movies, and focus on resting and relaxing instead.
→ Schedule nap times
Rather than forcing yourself to stay awake and get overly tired, plan to take a 30-minute nap in the days leading up to reaching the new time zone.
→ Use jet lag adjustment apps
There are various apps on your phone designed to help with jet lag adjustment. One of the most popular is Jet Lag Rooster. Travelers can enter their itinerary before departure, and the app will automatically schedule the necessary sleep times.