Jet lag is a physiological condition that occurs when a person crosses multiple time zones rapidly and the body's biological clock is disrupted. This usually happens during long-distance flights, especially in an east-west or west-east direction. The body's internal biological clock, which regulates sleep-wake cycles and other physiological processes, becomes desynchronized with the local time system at the destination.
Typical symptoms of jet lag include sleep disturbances, fatigue, irritability, digestive problems and general malaise. It usually takes a few days for the body to adjust to the new schedule.
Preventing and treating jet lag involves strategies such as gradual adaptation to the destination's time before departure, proper hydration, sunlight exposure at the right time and the use of melatonin supplements. Maintaining healthy sleep and dietary habits can also help minimize the effects of jet lag.
