Traveling can influence your health because you need to deal with many changes.
You may be affected by jet lag, different weathers, dangerous virus, and unclean water or food.
It is important to have good planning and preparation before you start a trip.
Ghazal Vessal and Gretchen Genato, two scientists from Cedars-Sinai, provide tips about how to stay healthy when traveling.
You need to prepare your body early before the trip.
Researchers suggest that you start preparing at least 48 hours before your travel.
This includes getting at least 8 hours of sleep every night before your trip and drinking lots of fluids.
Be sure to get any recommended vaccinations at least two weeks before you go.
Travelers visiting Africa or South America and especially Brazil may need to get a Yellow fever vaccine. You may also need a vaccination certificate.
It only is available at Cedars-Sinai and a limited number of other U.S. clinics, so people should make healthcare appointment in advance.
You need to pack well
Remember to bring with you the things that can protect your health. For example, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes can help keep the germs at bay.
Drugs for treating traveler’s diarrhea are important, too.
You also need to know that Zika is still an ongoing issue in parts of Africa, Asia, South America, and the Caribbean. Insect repellant containing DEET can help you avoid the virus.
You should stay hydrated when traveling
You need to drink lots of water. You should divide your weight (in pounds) in half and aim to drink that many ounces of water each day.
If you’re traveling abroad, check to be sure the tap water is safe to drink. If it’s not or you’re unsure, stick to bottled water.
You need to get enough sleep during your trip
When we sleep, our white blood cells increase, especially at night. When you have sleep loss, the body’s defense mechanism weakens.
Try to slow down in your trip
Give yourself some time for self-care and rest in your trip. This can reduce your stress and help you enjoy your trip more.
You should eat a healthy diet
Overeating or suddenly change your eating habit can disrupt your digestive system and overall health.
It is important to eat healthy, balanced meals with lots of fresh, colorful fruits and vegetables to keep your immune system healthy and strong.
Give yourself time to recover before returning to work
Vacationers often have little to no rest between getting home and returning to work. You should try to give yourself a day or two to recover.
Copyright © 2019 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
