How Turkish Airlines Helps You Overcome Jet Lag Easily?

Crossing multiple time zones can severely disrupt your body’s natural clock, leading to the temporary condition known as jet lag. Turkish Airlines, a leading international airline with a vast global network, is aware of the negative effects jet lag has on travelers’ health. This guide has Turkish Airlines jet lag tips and scientifically supported information into a clear, three-phase approach, many of which Turkish Airlines emphasizes in its own travel advice. 

However, a successful journey isn’t just about the flight; it’s about arriving refreshed and ready. Drawing on the advice provided for long-haul passengers, here is a comprehensive guide to help you minimize the effects of jet lag on your next Turkish Airlines adventure.

Why Do I Get Jet Lag?

Jet lag is a short-term sleep disorder that often occurs after long flights crossing several time zones. It happens because your body’s internal 24-hour clock, known as the circadian rhythm, gets confused by the sudden time change. Every cell in your body follows signals from the brain, so when those signals shift abruptly, your natural rhythm falls out of sync. This can leave you feeling groggy, irritable, or wide awake at odd hours. 

Moreover, the effects tend to be worse when traveling eastward during the day, as your body struggles to adjust to an earlier bedtime and faster time zone change.

Before You Fly: Pre-Flight Preparation Tips Given By Turkish Airlines 

To minimize the initial impact of a time zone change, preparation is essential. Begin shifting your body’s internal clock while you’re still at home. Turkish Airlines has presented a few useful tips for travellers to help cope with jet lag issues. 

1. Adjust Your Sleep Schedule:

This is one of the most important aspects to keep in mind: 

• Traveling East: 

Try going to bed a little earlier and waking up earlier for a few days before your trip.

• Traveling West: 

Try going to bed a little later and attempt to sleep for longer durations in the morning. 

2. Set Your Watch Early: 

The day before departure, set your watch or phone to your destination’s local time. This simple mental cue helps you begin the adjustment process.

3. Prioritize Rest and Health: 

Make sure you get adequate sleep the night before you fly. Also, it’s essential to eat well and actively strengthen your immunity to prevent illness caused by travel stress.

During the Flight: In-Air Strategy As Turkish Airlines Suggest

Turkish Airlines suggests that passengers start adjusting to the destination’s time zone while still on the flight.

1. Stay Hydrated: 

The most crucial tip is to stay hydrated: drink plenty of water throughout your flight. Cabin dehydration significantly worsens jet lag symptoms such as headaches and fatigue.

2. Avoid Sleep Disruptors: 

You need to steer clear of alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated drinks. These beverages can interfere with sleep and contribute to dehydration.

3. Eat Light and Smart: 

Consume lighter meals. Turkish Airlines suggests eating foods rich in protein, like cheese, meat, fish, and eggs, if you need to stay awake, and consider a Vitamin C supplement.

4. Stay Active: 

To promote circulation and prevent stiffness, perform light on-board exercises or take short walks around the cabin when the seatbelt sign is off.

5. Manage Sleep Strategically:

• If your destination’s time is daytime, try to stay awake on the plane.
• If it is nighttime at your destination, try to sleep on the plane. Use Turkish Airlines’ amenities like blankets, pillows, and a sleep mask to enhance rest.

Also Read: Does Turkish Airlines Offer Special Assistance for Passengers with a Fear of Flying? 

Upon Arrival: Immediate Post-Flight Steps

The first day at your destination is critical for a fast recovery.

1. Embrace Local Time: 
   
   For eating and sleeping, align your internal clock with the new time zone at once.
   
2. Seek Daylight: 
   
   If you arrive during the day, expose yourself to as much natural daylight as possible. Light is a powerful regulator of the body’s clock and helps suppress melatonin.
   
3. Resist Napping: 
   
   You must avoid the temptation to take long daytime naps. If you must rest, keep it a very short power nap (30 minutes or less).
   
4. Go to Bed at Local Nighttime: 
   
   If you arrive at night, try to sleep at a normal bedtime for that location, even if you don’t feel tired.
   
5. Try Exercise: 
   
   Move your body lightly to increase your energy and improve blood flow.
   
6. Avoid Sleeping Pills: 
   
   Turkish Airlines advises against using sleeping tablets unless necessary and recommends consulting a doctor. Instead, try herbal tea to aid sleep.

Don’t Forget the Return Journey!

Jet lag can also strike on the way home, often with greater severity. Apply similar principles: try not to sleep on your return flight and adjust to your home schedule as quickly as possible upon landing, resisting the urge to sleep until your normal bedtime.

Conclusion:

Turkish Airlines views time zone changes as a natural part of your journey, not an obstacle to be dreaded. The key is to be proactive: gradually adjust your sleep cycle before you leave, and prioritize hydration and movement while in the air. Upon arrival, the fastest way to acclimate is to immediately sync your routine with the local time and seek out daylight. With the support of Turkish Airlines’ expert advice and superior onboard comfort, you’ll step off the plane feeling alert, refreshed, and ready to make the most of your destination.

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