Anti Jetlag Menu

Will you be flying off anytime soon, whether on a business trip or vacation? I have something here and I thought is worthy to share about after reading the November copy of Changi Airport magazine, Changi Class.

Jetlag affects us all and everyone seems to have their own methods - be it holistic, drug based or some elaborate diet - of trying to minimize its effects. Here are a few natural foods to keep jetlag at bay.

Invented by Charles Ehret, a scientist at Argonne National Laboratories, this diet claims to relieve stress of jetlag by preparing your body for the new time zone that you're going to be in. Travellers are recommended to eat in a "feast and famine" style for several days before departure. Feasting on a high-protein breakfast and lunch to stimulate the body's active cycle, and a high-carbohydrate dinner to stimulate sleep on the first day. Then the next day, fast with light meals of salads, light soups, fruits and juices. This cycle is repeated - all on an adapted schedule that should hopefully integrate with your destination time zone when you arrive.


Siberian ginseng is an excellent tonic which negates the adverse effects of travel. It fortifies adrenal glands, aiding the body in its fight against the physical impact of disturbed biorhythms. Ginseng also increases stamina, helping the body to cope with the exhaustion brought on by travelling.


Passion flower, with its sedative properties, helps to restore natural sleep patterns disturbed by air travel. The herb also provides pain relief for flight-induced headaches and anxiety.


Oats, either as porridge or a decoction of oat straw, are an excellent fortifying pre-flight food. Oats contain saponins, alkaloids, sterols and vitamins, which increase stamina. Take them to battle exhaustion and as a tonic to promote restful sleep.


It is commonly known that drinking of plenty of water and avoiding coffee and alcohol is greater in-flight and has a dehydrating effect upon the body. Tomato juice is the best as it doubles up as a preventive agent against deep-vein thrombosis (internal blood-clotting) during long flights.


Chamomile, a soothingly gentle but effective sedative, is suitable for all. Its daisy-like flowers can be used to make a sleep inducing infusion that will leave you refreshed and ready for bed.