She Strengthens

Beat Jet Lag with These 9 Foods

Are you tired of feeling drained and disoriented after a long flight? Jet lag can be a real challenge, but the good news is that certain foods can help your body adjust to the new time zone.

Fuel Up with Quinoa

Quinoa is a complex carbohydrate and a complete protein that can help keep your energy levels up when jet lag hits. It’s also easy on the digestive system, making it a great choice for in-flight or post-arrival meals. Try making a quinoa salad with roasted vegetables and a citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing and energizing snack.

Catch Some Z’s with Cherries

Cherries are a natural source of melatonin, an antioxidant that regulates sleeping patterns. Enjoy them as a snack an hour or two before bedtime to help your body adjust to the new time zone. You can also try dried cherries or cherry juice, just be mindful of added sugars.

Brazil Nuts for Better Sleep

Brazil nuts are packed with selenium, which promotes better sleep and can help curb midnight cravings. Snack on raw Brazil nuts or try making chocolate and nut balls for a tasty treat before bed.

Cumin: The Calming Spice

Cumin has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for years as a tranquilizer. Drink cumin tea a few times a day to help induce sleep and calm your mind and body.

Bananas for Relaxation

Bananas are a great source of magnesium and potassium, electrolytes that can help balance your body’s salts and promote relaxation. Enjoy a banana an hour or two before bed to help you unwind and prepare for a restful night’s sleep.

Ginger for Digestive Relief

Ginger can help calm your stomach and ease digestion, common issues associated with jet lag. Try making a stomach-settling tea with ginger, lemon, and honey to soothe your digestive system.

Turkey for Tryptophan

Turkey is a lean protein that’s easy on the stomach and rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that promotes sleepiness. Enjoy a turkey taco salad with black beans, another tryptophan-rich food, to help you catch those z’s.

Kiwi for Better Sleep

Kiwi is known to improve sleep quality and duration, making it a great addition to your jet lag-fighting arsenal. It’s also rich in vitamin C, essential for keeping your immune system strong.

Leafy Greens for Magnesium

Leafy greens like kale, collards, and spinach are rich in magnesium, which can help regulate your internal body clock. Enjoy sautéed collard greens and kale with coconut oil and curry for a nutritious and delicious meal.

Additional Tips for Beating Jet Lag

While diet plays a significant role in minimizing jet lag, it’s also important to pay attention to what you don’t eat, what you drink, and when you eat. Here are three final tips:

• Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can exacerbate dehydration, and drink plenty of water instead.
• Steer clear of greasy foods and sugar, which can increase feelings of lethargy.
• Re-regulate your body clock by operating according to the time zone of your destination, not your origin city.