7 tips to stay healthy on long flights

Expatriates tend to take many more flights than the average population. However, the regular long-term airtrips take a toll on your health, especially if you fly overseas. If you frequently travel on long distance flights, read our 7 top tips on how to minimize the risk and side-effects for your health.

Reduce stress, arrive early: Be at the airport before the check-in of your luggage begins. You will escape from the queues and unnecessary stress. If you avoid the negative side effects of last-minute airport stress, you will enter the plane in a more relaxed state of body and mind.

Get enough oxygen: Note that at high flight altitudes the air contains significantly less oxygen than at the sea level (around 25%, but the exact amount of oxygen available depends on the height). Focus on breathing.  so breathe deeply and calmly. It may also help you relax.

Dress comfortably: Put on loose fitting clothing to let the blood and oxygen flow easily through your body. Taking off the shoes can also be helpful.  Tight clothing cuts off blood circulation, which is already working worse due to unfriendly air-cabin´s environment.

Move: Try to move while you sit on the long flight. Just tapping your feet will improve the blood circulation in your body. Check out the list of the exercises that you can easily

Reduce the negative effect of pressure change: Chew something when the plane takes off and lands not to get your ears blocked by the fast pressure change.

Do not overeat: In the air, our digestive system is much more sensitive. You should eat before going on the flight. On board it is recommended to just have a small, light and warm meal.

Freshen up: On the long flights you may want to freshen up to feel better. Have an extra t-shirt, toothbrush and deodorant inside of the zip-lock bags in your hand luggage.

Remember, do not panic before getting on the plane! It has been proven that flying is one of the safest means of transport.

Enjoy your flight!