How to Avoid Jet Lag

Previously published in Examiner

Conclusion of the Jet Lag series

Most Montrealers complain they do not get enough sleep. Yet, sleep affects are physical and mental health. Not having enough sleep affects our mood, our stamina, our home-life and career, and our social relationships.

Sleep is an important human function which is essential for good physical health and good mental health. Even though sleep is so important many Montrealers take sleeping for granted. They either sleep too much or more often than not, sleep less than is recommended for good health. Montrealers will catnap rather than sleep, burn the midnight oil studying, play on the computer, or just insist that they are too busy too sleep.

Jet Lag is a common problem for Montrealers who travel a lot because of vacationing or for the purpose of work. Montreal executives may have a conference to attend to in California one day and maybe New York or Toyko the day. It is a very hectic schedule that will wreck havoc on the body's circadian (sleep mechansim) rhythm.

Spa Eastman Montreal has created a travel package that is designed to counteract the affects of jet lag.

Symptom intensity and jet lag

People traveling across just one or two time zones will be less affected than people who are traveling across several times zones.

How to avoid jet lag continued

Avoid taking sleeping pills

Do not take a sleeping pill to get to sleep that first night, try going to sleep naturally, but if your insomnia continues for several days, seek the advise of a doctor.

Avoid taking melatonin

Do not take melatonin to increase your sleepiness. There is no solid proof that melatonin tables actually work. However, one study in 2005, suggests that .3mg of melatonin is affective whereas larger doses can cause sleepiness, confusion, and decreased mental acuity. If you feel you must take these tables consult with a doctor before going through with it.

Source:

http://www.medicinenet.com/jet_lag/article.htm