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Travel: Combating jet lag – Metro US

Travel: Combating jet lag

Traveling the world is exciting. The jet lag that comes with it, however, is not. Although traversing numerous time zones to get to an exotic locale is unavoidable, the sleepiness and disorientation that come with it can be lessened. And who would know better than someone who deals with jet lag regularly for work? Richard Kleck, a cabin crew member on Emirates’ A380 fleet, shares his advice.

What’s the worst jet lag you’ve ever had?

The most challenging jet lag I’ve experienced would be one that includes two stopovers, such as Singapore and then on to Brisbane. Just as your body adjusts to one time zone, you have to up and leave for another — and then finally return to home and acclimate again.

What are some tips you’ve found to combat jet lag?

Drink plenty of water during the flight. My best advice is to go back to basics — appreciate your body and stay healthy. If my body’s telling me to sleep, I do, and I make sure I get lots of it.

How do you readjust once you get home?

Getting a good night’s sleep of at least eight hours is what helps me to refresh and readjust once I return. Let your body dictate your pace, but it’s important to try and get back to your routine, whatever that may be, as soon as possible. Once a sense of normalcy sets in, shrugging off that jet lag becomes so much easier.

Kleck’s advice

Plan your sleeping and eating schedule prior to your flight. For example, if you know you will be on an evening flight, I often suggest preparing to eat dinner before the flight (in the Emirates Lounge at JFK, if passengers are flying business class), so that they may simply get on board and sleep without interruption.

If it’s a long flight, get in tune to the time of your arrival. Adjust your sleeping and eating during your flight accordingly.

When passengers ask me how to combat jet lag, while still wanting to enjoy our wine list, I always suggest alternating their beverage of choice with a glass of water. Also:?avoid caffeine.