Travel Smart, Travel Healthy: Tips for a Healthy Journey

Welp, the world is opening up again, and wanderlust is taking hold! Whether you’re hitting the highways or soaring through the skies, this blog will give you tips for a healthy journey – it’s about keeping your body healthy during your long journey.

Hydration Takes Flight:

Hydration is crucial for overall health, but it becomes even more important when you’re flying. Here’s why:

• Dry Cabin Air: According to Bob Bacheler, a managing director and in-flight nurse at Flying Angels, airplanes constantly exchange outside air during flight. While this ventilation helps with virus transmission, it also creates a dry environment with humidity levels around 15-20% – significantly lower than the comfortable range.
• Increased Water Loss: Mr. Bacheler also explains that the human body loses around 8 ounces of water per hour at altitude, primarily through breathing.

The Aerospace Medical Association (AsMA) recommends drinking 8 ounces of water every hour during your flight to combat dehydration.

Keep Moving for a Smooth Landing:

Sitting for extended periods, especially on airplanes, can lead to blood pooling in your lower legs. This increases your risk of developing blood clots known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE).

Here’s how to get your blood flowing and reduce your risk:

• Walk the aisle: Get up and walk around the cabin periodically.
• Stand Up and Stretch: Stand up straight and perform simple exercises like heel raises and toe taps.
• Squeeze Your Way to Health: While seated, engage your gluteal muscles by squeezing your buttocks for a few seconds – repeat this several times.

Maintain Good Posture for a Pain-Free Trip:

Slouching throughout your journey can lead to low back pain and stiffness. Maintain proper spinal alignment by:

• Supporting Your Lumbar Spine: Roll up a pillow, blanket, or even your jacket to create a lumbar support and prevent slouching.

Hydration Before Intoxication:

Alcohol consumption dehydrates you, the opposite of what you want during a flight. If you choose to indulge in a drink, be sure to follow it up with 8 ounces of water to replenish lost fluids.

By incorporating these simple tips into your travel routine, you can arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready to explore!