Revolutionizing Your Journey: Travel With Points & Miles

Jet Lag Demystified: A Sleep Surgeon’s Tips for Travelers with Dr. Kevin Lin (Ep. 79)

Jun 18, 2025

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In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, host DeAndre Coke sits down with Dr. Kevin Lin, a board-certified sleep surgeon and avid traveler, to unpack the complexities of jet lag and how to travel more comfortably.

They explore what happens to your body’s circadian rhythm during long-haul travel, why traveling east hits harder than going west, and how each traveler’s response to jet lag can differ. Dr. Lin shares expert advice on using melatonin, timing meals, and adjusting sleep schedules before departure. The episode delves into the role of technology, including apps like TimeShifter and light therapy, in helping to regulate your body clock across time zones. Practical tips for hydration, smart napping, and managing alcohol consumption on flights are discussed, along with strategies for athletes and frequent flyers to optimize sleep and performance.

If you're trying to stay sharp for a business meeting or energized for vacation, this episode offers science-backed strategies to help you show up rested and ready.

Key Highlights:

Dr. Kevin Lin’s background: A sleep surgeon with a passion for travel and optimizing rest.
Understanding jet lag: It's a misalignment of your circadian rhythm due to time zone shifts.
East vs. West: Traveling east often causes worse jet lag because it shortens the body’s day.
Personalized reactions: Jet lag affects people differently—preparation is key.
Smart prep: Begin shifting your schedule a few days before travel.
Melatonin insights: Best taken 3–4 hours before target bedtime in small doses.
Meal timing: Adjust your eating schedule to match the destination’s schedule to help synchronize your internal clock.
Sunlight exposure: Morning light helps reset your body faster upon arrival.
Light therapy tools: Helpful for managing long-haul jet lag when natural light isn’t an option.
Napping strategy: Keep naps short (20–30 minutes) to avoid feeling groggy or experiencing sleep disruption.
Sleep trackers: Can help build awareness, but shouldn't be the sole metric of sleep quality.
Tips for frequent travelers & athletes: Consistency, nutrition, and hydration are essential for high performance.

Resources:

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Connect with Kevin:

Instagram: Kevin Lin

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