Sleep scientist Jade Wu disagrees with Taylor Swift's claim that jet lag is a choice. Wu explains how jet lag disrupts our internal clocks, offers tips on managing jet lag when traveling, and discusses the physical and mental toll of jet lag on individuals.
Jet lag disrupts body clocks, causing sluggishness and sleep issues during travel.
Good sleep hygiene, strategic napping, and consistent sleep patterns can help mitigate jet lag effects.
Deep dives
Understanding Jet Lag and Circadian Misalignment
Jet lag and circadian misalignment occur when your body's internal clocks are out of sync with the external time, leading to sluggishness, sleep difficulties, and overall decreased functioning. Traveling quickly across time zones disrupts our natural adaptation process as our bodies struggle to align with the new environment.
Tips to Combat Jet Lag
To mitigate jet lag effects, it is recommended to bank sleep before a trip, gradually adjust your bedtime to match the new time zone, and follow good sleep hygiene practices. Depending on the direction of travel, strategic napping or staying awake during the flight can aid in adjusting your sleep schedule.
Importance of Sleep and Consequences of Sleep Deprivation
Ensuring adequate and timely sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. Lack of sleep can disrupt vital bodily functions, impact cognition and mood, and lead to long-term health risks such as cancer, heart disease, and mortality. Consistency in sleep patterns is crucial for maintaining physical and mental health.
Taylor Swift claimed that "jet lag is a choice" at this year's Super Bowl. Sleep scientists like Jade Wu would like you to know they very much disagree. The disorder can throw your body clock out of whack and leave you feeling sluggish — not great when you're on a big vacation abroad. Wu explains how to make jet lag less miserable and more manageable.