The English expression jet lag is accepted by the Royal Spanish Academy ( RAE ) and is part of its dictionary. This phrase is used to refer to the discomfort that a person suffers after traveling by plane across several time zones .
Time zones are divisions of planet Earth that are made through 24 meridians that are equally spaced. In each zone a certain time applies, which means that there are various time zones worldwide. If someone travels a long distance on a flight and lands in a time zone very different from the one in which they took off, they are likely to suffer from jet lag.
This disorder occurs when an individual rapidly changes time zones . This causes an imbalance between the internal clock (which regulates the so-called circadian rhythm , responsible for coordinating periods of wakefulness and sleep) and the time that governs the place where you arrived.
When a subject flies for many hours and crosses different time zones, it is very possible that it will take them a few days to adjust their internal clock to the new reality. Thus, as a result of jet lag, you will be in a state of wakefulness at night and feel sleepy during the day.
Jet lag can cause everything from fatigue and apathy to irritability . A stage of confusion is also common and digestive problems may even appear.
In the same way, it should not be overlooked that other common symptoms that indicate that a person suffers from jet lag are difficulty concentrating, a general feeling of discomfort and even suffering notable mood changes, without forgetting diarrhea or anything else. On the contrary, constipation.
To minimize jet lag, it is recommended to start adapting to the destination's time zone in advance and arrive at the flight well rested. On the plane, the ideal is to drink plenty of water and avoid coffee and alcoholic beverages.
Likewise, it is also advisable to try to sleep during the flight and to do so, isolate yourself completely by using earplugs and even an eye mask.
Once at the destination, among the main tips given to end jet lag as soon as possible are to try to spend time outdoors and in daylight, follow the routines that people have there, avoid taking a nap and even Maintain a temperature in the room that does not exceed 20º at bedtime. Specifically, when it is time to go to bed it is also important to turn off any electronic device so that it does not interfere with sleep.
To all this we must add that it is recommended to have a breakfast that has proteins and that dinners are very healthy and light.
In the same way, we must not forget that there is a film titled “Jet Lag”. It is a film of French origin, which was released in 2002 and was directed by Danièle Thompson. Jean Reno and Juliette Binoche are the protagonists of this film that revolves around an unexpected meeting on a plane.