Don’t let jet lag ruin your fun.
Credit: Metro File Photo
You’ve just touched down in Paris and the first thing you want to do is hit the hay. Sound familiar? Don’t let jet lag cause you to miss out on all that your travels have to offer. Michelle Dudash, author of the book “Clean Eating for Busy Families” says that consuming the following snacks can help you feel great upon arrival.
Dark chocolate: It can reduce levels of cortisol and catecholamine stress hormones. The higher the percentage of cacao, the better. Start with one that is 60% cacao and work your way up. Darker chocolate also has less added sugar.
Carbohydrates:They stimulate the release or serotonin, your feel-good brain chemical. Opt for low-sugar granola, an apple or dried fruit.
Vitamin B6:It boosts melatonin production, a sleep-inducing hormone triggered by darkness. Order a tuna salad cup, bananas, roasted chickpeas or fortified breakfast cereal.
Melatonin: This sleepy-inducing chemical is found in dried cherries, almonds and sunflower seeds. Make a trail mix of the three.
Bonus tips to beat jet lag:
- Order tomato juice on the plane, since tomatoes have a high melatonin content. Pack sunglasses or an eye cover.
- With the drying effects of high altitudes, it’s important to stay hydrated to keep fatigue, false hunger and headaches at bay upon landing. Your best bet, besides water: Dehydrated coconut. Or order orange juice for beneficial electrolytes.
