6 Tips for Staying Healthy on a Long Flight

Sitting on a plane for hours on end is not everyone’s cup of tea, but often there is not much you can do about it when you need to get from A to B. Whether you are going on a business trip or to an exciting new location, you’ll want to make sure that you arrive feeling happy and healthy.

Here are six useful tips for staying healthy on a long flight.

1. Avoid alcohol.

As much as free alcohol on your journey is tempting, drinking yourself silly is not a clever idea at 30,000 feet. Not only does the alcohol hit you harder than it would when you are on land, but you are likely to get dehydrated and feel terrible once you step off the plane. Working your way through customs and immigration is never a fun time when you’re under the weather.

2. Do regular exercise.

Sitting in one place for extended periods of time increases your risk of blood clots and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). Make sure to stand up and stretch and take a walk down the aisles at least once every hour. You can also do some stretches while in your seat to get the blood moving around your body.

3. Don’t take sleeping pills.

Many people struggle with sleeping on a plane but want to arrive feeling slightly refreshed and ready to start the day in their new destination. However, sleeping pills are not the answer. Not only can they end up making you feel drowsy and disorientated when you get off the plane, you are also at risk of DVT if you don’t move around during the flight.

4. Drink plenty of water.

When you don’t drink enough water on a long flight, your immune system can weaken and you have a higher chance of suffering from jet lag symptoms. Plus, you will be even more prone to headaches.

Instead of asking for wine or beer or coke every time the drinks trolley comes around, request water instead. Keeping hydrated will boost your energy and mood, and you’ll certainly notice a difference in how you feel when you land.

5. Keep the air circulation on.

Being confined in a space with no fresh air for hours on end means that there is a higher chance of getting infected with a bug that someone else is carrying. Keep the air vent above you open at all times, even on a low setting, so that the air blows the germs away rather than settling into your personal space.

6. Wear flight socks

Flight socks (otherwise known as compression socks) can be a life saver when on a long flight. Not only can they help to reduce swelling in your feet and legs, but they also relieve DVT symptoms and reduce the chance of blood clots.

Stay Healthy on Your Next Flight

To reduce your risk of blood clots and DVT the next time you travel, check out TXG’s specialist range of flight socks. If you need any help deciding on the right socks for you, feel free to call our team on 0800 894 769 for assistance.

Please note: The information provided here is for general information only and is not intended to act as medical advice. We advise anyone interested in this subject to seek qualified, professional advice.

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