Understanding the Effects of Jet Lag on the Body and Brain

Jet lag occurs when our internal body clocks become misaligned with the external environment, confusing the master clock in the brain called suprachiasmatic nucleus. This confusion affects all clocks in our body, leading to sluggishness, disrupted sleep, decreased alertness, cognitive function, mood, and metabolism. To mitigate jet lag effects, one can stay on their regular schedule for short trips with minimal time differences, adjust sleep and light exposure before, during, and after travel, and consider using melatonin supplements or light therapy guided by a healthcare provider.