Sleep And Jet Lag

Sleepless Skies

Jet lag is a common phenomenon experienced by travellers who cross multiple time zones swiftly, disrupting their body's internal circadian rhythms. While often seen as a temporary inconvenience, the impact of jet lag on sleep can be profound and long-lasting. Here we explore the various facets of jet lag and its effects on sleep, shedding light on the challenges it poses and strategies to mitigate its consequences.

Understanding Jet Lag

Jet lag occurs when a person's internal biological clock, which regulates sleep-wake cycles, is out of sync with the external time zone. This misalignment results from rapid travel across multiple time zones, disrupting the body's ability to adapt quickly to the new environmental cues. As a consequence, travellers often experience symptoms like fatigue, insomnia, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.

Impact on Sleep

1. Sleep Disruption: The most immediate and noticeable effect of jet lag is sleep disruption. Travellers may find it challenging to fall asleep or stay asleep during their first few nights in a new time zone. This is because the body is still synchronised with the original time zone, making it difficult to adjust to local bedtime.
2. Circadian Rhythm Disruption: The body's circadian rhythm is a finely tuned 24-hour cycle that regulates sleep, hormone production, and other essential bodily functions. Jet lag throws this rhythm into disarray, leading to confusion in signalling when it's time to sleep and when it's time to wake up.
3. Shift Work Syndrome: Jet lag can be likened to a form of temporary shift work, where the body is forced to adapt to a new schedule abruptly. This can lead to sleep disturbances similar to those experienced by shift workers, potentially causing long-term sleep problems.
4. Sleep Quality: Even when travellers do manage to sleep while experiencing jet lag, the quality of their sleep is often compromised. They may spend less time in restorative REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, which can leave them feeling groggy and fatigued during the day.

Mitigating the Impact of Jet Lag on Sleep

While it's challenging to completely avoid jet lag when traveling across time zones, there are several strategies that can help minimise its impact on sleep:

1. Gradual Adjustment: If possible, start adjusting your sleep schedule to the destination's time zone a few days before your trip. This gradual shift can make it easier for your body to adapt.
2. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can exacerbate the symptoms of jet lag. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight to stay well-hydrated.
3. Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: Both alcohol and caffeine can disrupt sleep patterns. Limit their consumption, especially close to bedtime.
4. Natural Light Exposure: Spend time outdoors in natural daylight upon arrival at your destination. This helps reset your circadian rhythm and signal to your body that it's time to be awake.
5. Short Naps: Short power naps (20-30 minutes) can provide a quick energy boost without interfering with your nighttime sleep schedule.
6. Melatonin Supplements: Some travellers find melatonin supplements helpful in resetting their internal clock. If you want to supplement your melatonin production, we recommend plant based melatonin instead of the synthesised version, you can find it for instance in our Hygee Sleep tablets. Do not use them more than 7 consecutive days, or consult a healthcare professional if you wish to do so. 

Conclusion

Jet lag is an almost inevitable consequence of long-distance travel across multiple time zones, and it can have a significant impact on sleep. Understanding the disruption it causes to your body's internal clock and adopting strategies to mitigate its effects can help you enjoy a more restful and rejuvenating trip. While it may take some time to fully adjust, with proper planning and self-care, you can minimise the sleepless nights and make the most of your travel experience.