I'm Leaving, on a Jet Plane!

I'm getting ready to get on a very, very, very long flight, so I decided to pack my own meal rather than rely on the overpriced offerings at the airport and the paltry offerings on the plane. I'm also concerned about some serious jet lag as I am flying east and across seven time zones. According to "sources," recovering from jet lag depends on the number of time zones you crosse while traveling. In general, your body will adjust to the new time zone at the rate of one or two time zones per day. For example, if you crossed six time zones, your body will typically adjust to this time change in three to five days. So in essence, I should be recovered just in time to fly home!

In order to help combat jet lag, you should exercise, sleep well, stay hydrated and stay sober (!) well ahead of your flight.  In general you should try to avoid alcohol the day before and during the flight. Alcoholic beverages can cause dehydration, disrupt sleeping schedules, and trigger nausea and general discomfort. Also be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated fluids, especially since the humidity on the plane is kept at a desert level of only 10%! Other food tips:

•Oranges are thought to help fight stress.
•Almonds and sunflower seeds are high in melatonin, the hormone that helps control your sleep and wake cycles.
•Bananas prevent muscle cramping.
•Ginger ale aids digestion and helps with motion sickness.
•Dark Chocpolate contains anadamine, a chemical that produces a cozy, euphoric feeling. (I got that under control!)
•Apples are rich in fiber and help to stabilize sugar crashes.

Try to avoid:
•Beans, cauliflower, broccoli, for obvious reasons.
•Odorous foods that will annoy your neighbor. Trust.

For more thoughts on bringing your own meals, check out Pack a Picnic.

Happy travels!