Long flights are exciting. You’re strapped in on a journey to somewhere fun and amazing. However, for many, long flights are also the bane of their existence.
Though the destination may be rewarding, the journey can be long and tedious. Long flights also present many potential health issues and discomfort if you do not take proper precautions and steps before, during, and after your flight.
Long flights are exciting!?
As amazing as flying is, human beings were never meant to be in the air for that long, and we also should not sit for extended periods without moving. What can you do to make sure that your fantastic experience is as easy and risk-free as possible? Here are 5 things to help you prepare for a healthier flight!
Wear Compression Socks
For many people with diabetes, compression socks are a vital resource for staying healthy and upright. However, few people know the benefits of wearing compression socks during flights.
Compression socks can improve circulation on even the longest of flights by preventing clotting or blockage in deeper veins, even while sitting still. It also reduces the risk of swelling, which many people experience after long flights.
Stock Up on Vitamin C
Take lots of vitamin C and other necessary vitamins to keep your immune system at full function. Vitamin C can do wonders for blocking or preventing potential illnesses, and planes are full of germs and bacteria solely from being surrounded by other people.
You never know what sicknesses other people might have, so preparing your immune system for anything with good old vitamin C can be a true lifesaver.
Stay Hydrated
Enjoy a soda or other soft beverages on your flight if you desire, but make sure to drink lots of water. It is easy to get dehydrated when you are in a pressurized metal tube thousands of feet off the ground where there is little moisture.
Drinking lots of water can prevent potential dehydration and other illnesses like upset stomach or aching muscles. Water cannot fix everything, but it sure is an excellent way to stay ahead of the stomach bug or flu.
Get Some Rest
Sleeping on flights can be difficult, but doing so has a lot of benefits. Your body can recharge, and you may find it easier to adjust to a drastic time change if you sleep through a significant portion of your flight.
Most extremely long flights will have reclining or more comfortable seating that makes it easier to sleep, but even on 9-10 hour flights, finding time for a nap or a few hours of sleep can do wonders for you. Bring your blow-up face pillow, earplugs, and face mask!
Use the Air Vents
People often forget to small vents over their heads on flights, but these can be a great resource of fresh air in an environment where there is so little of it.
Many recommend setting them to medium for optimal air circulation, and it will keep the air in your vicinity from getting too stagnant or stale. Circulating the air can also save you from getting too uncomfortable in your area.
Other Tips to Remember
There are a few other things more tactics to prevent yourself from getting sick that will undoubtedly save you on the plane like using hand sanitizer and wiping down surfaces you touch.
Also, make sure to move around every once in a while to keep your muscles from getting sore and to prevent clotting or swelling. All you have to do is pay attention to your body before and during the flight to make sure you’re giving it the proper attention.
Our ability to fly is an amazing testament to human knowledge and skill, but it is still important to remember we are not necessarily built for the task. Keep yourself healthy and you’ll land feeling your best.
