What's the best way to overcome Jetlag from China to America?

Question

I've done it before with a combination of playing around with Melatonin (sleep aid) before and during the plane trip. When I arrived in America, I was virtually jet-lag free, though I forget exactly what I did. I'm making another trip to America and it's very important that I'm as jet-lag free as possible, and I would love any advice. Perhaps there are even things I can do to my diet habits approaching the trip? Anything, please!

Answer 1

I agree with Tom about eating and drinking. Stay hydrated: lots of water during the flight.

I travel globally a lot, and the one thing I learned was to get myself in the time zone of my destination as soon as possible. If it's night when you land, go to bed -- even if you use a sleeping aid like benedryl. If it's day time when you arrive, do your very best to stay awake until it's time (at the destination) to go to bed. If you can even begin this process during the long flight from China, the better. Figure out what time it is at your destination, and choose your in-flight sleep time accordingly.

The absolute WORST jet-lag I have ever experienced -- and it left me feeling "dopey" for 3 days -- was arriving by day and giving in to my desire to just take a little nap. I was ruined for days!

Hope this helps you be ready to go when you land.

Answer 2

Limit your soda and alcoholic beverages -
drink water or cranberry juice

also stretch your legs every two hours - don't just sit there
find a reason to walk

don't over eat (dang - that took the fun out right there!)

have a safe flight!