What jet lag does to your body - and how to cope
Getty ImagesIf that all sounds like a lot of work, there is one final study to bear in mind. Research from the University of Surrey which has not yet been peer-reviewed or published, asked infrequent long-haul travellers were asked how worried they were about getting jet lag. Those who were dreading it more, had worse symptoms, suggesting that the nocebo effect – where negative expectations lead to worse outcomes – may be at play.
So optimise your strategies, but try not to worry about it too much. Over time the body does adjust naturally to the time zone at your new destination, at a pace of about an hour a day if you've travelled east and an hour and a half a day if you've gone west. In a week or so's time you'll be feeling better anyway – and with only memories from your trip, and not ill effects.
* Disclaimer: All content within this column is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. The BBC is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made by a user based on the content of this site. The BBC is not liable for the contents of any external internet sites listed, nor does it endorse any commercial product or service mentioned or advised on any of the sites. Always consult your own GP if you're in any way concerned about your health.
For full cooking steps, turn to the next page or click the Open button (>) and don't forget to SHARE with your Facebook friends.
