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You’ve planned your vacation and are planning to fly this summer. There’s a good habit to remember every time you fly. This advice is revealed by a dietician, in order to stay healthy, even in the air.
Summer vacation is fast approaching and you may be planning to take a plane in the coming weeks. In the cabin, the air is particularly dry and causes minor inconveniences such as a dry mouth or cramps. To avoid these problems, a dietician reveals a health tip to keep in mind when traveling.
Staying well hydrated for a more enjoyable flight
The atmosphere on planes is rather dry, with low humidity. This can cause dry eyes, dry mouth and dry skin. To deal with this, the good solution is to think about hydration and drink regularly.
“When you’re getting ready to fly, stay hydrate probably isn’t your top priority, but it should be. You might be surprised to learn that flying can be very dehydrating. Plus, much of the air that circulates in the plane comes from outside, and the air at high altitudes is incredibly dry.” recalls Shyla Cadogan, a dietician specializing in integrative nutrition, in an article published on the site Study Finds.
Be careful if you are a fragile person
The expert particularly warns the most fragile people, such as the elderly, but also those affected by certain pathologies, such as diabetes or those consuming diuretics. The symptoms of dehydration, in this case, can be dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, a feeling of thirst, or even fainting.
The expert explains that some people voluntarily avoid drinking, so as not to “having to constantly walk up and down the aisle to go to the bathroom and disturb other travelers”. For her, it is a mistake that will lead to “rapid dehydration and ultimately feeling unwell once you land, and that’s the scenario for millions of people every time they fly.”
How can you stay hydrated when you can’t bring a bottle of water on a plane? The dietician’s tip is very simple: you must carry an empty flask or bottle with you, before filling it before boarding, at the tap.
She recommends taking at least a liter with you and using electrolytes, if necessary, in sachets to dilute. These preparations contain essential minerals such as calcium or potassium, to “help with cell hydration. Snacking on fruit is also a great option as you will not only get water but also electrolytes and glucose (sugars), which contribute to hydration efforts” notes Shyla Cadogan.
On the other hand, avoid tea or coffee, because although rich in water, they have little effect on hydration and a diuretic effect that will make you go to the toilet many times. Finally, the expert recommends, in the case of a long-haul flight “try to drink as much water as possible before you fall asleep and do the same when you wake up. Personally, traveling is one of my favorite pastimes, but I know I start my trip off on a much better foot if I hydrate myself constantly and so can you” cshe concluded.