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Updated: Jul 15, 2026
08:36
Collecting Sleep, Circadian, Fatigue, and Performance Data in Complex Operational Environments
Published on: August 8, 2019
Jet lag: trends and coping strategies
Jim Waterhouse1, Thomas Reilly, Greg Atkinson
1Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Henry Cotton Campus, Liverpool L3 2ET, UK. waterhouseathome@hotmail.com
Lancet (London, England)
|April 3, 2007
Summary
Jet lag, a common travel fatigue, disrupts sleep and performance due to body clock misalignment. This review covers jet lag causes, adjustment methods, and remaining challenges for long-distance travellers.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Sleep Science
- Travel Medicine
Background:
- Increasing long-distance travel leads to higher incidence of travel fatigue and jet lag.
- Jet lag symptoms include sleep disruption and decreased cognitive performance.
- Understanding jet lag is crucial for traveler well-being and performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review the causes, symptoms, and management strategies for jet lag.
- To elucidate the physiological mechanisms underlying the body clock's role in jet lag.
- To provide evidence-based advice for mitigating jet lag in international travelers.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on travel fatigue, jet lag, and circadian rhythm.
- Analysis of pharmacological and behavioral interventions for jet lag.
- Synthesis of findings to develop practical recommendations for travelers.
Main Results:
- Jet lag arises from circadian misalignment with the new time zone, impacting sleep and performance.
- Both pharmacological and behavioral strategies can help alleviate jet lag symptoms.
- Effective management involves understanding body clock properties and adjustment techniques.
Conclusions:
- Jet lag is a significant challenge for frequent travelers, impacting health and performance.
- Personalized strategies, considering travel direction and time zones crossed, are essential.
- Further research is needed to address unresolved issues in jet lag management.
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