How to Stay Healthy While Flying

Closed airspace tends to be a breeding ground for bacteria and is a challenge to our immune system. Follow these tips to stay healthy while flying.

Instructions

1. Keep your time in the cabin as short as possible. Choose to travel on days that are not busy, such as Mondays or midweek , to avoid crowded flights. The heaviest travel days are usually Thursdays and Fridays.

2. Drink water before, during and after flying. Ask for sealed bottle water on the flight.

3. Keep your nasal passages moist with saline spray. This blocks inhalation of the germs in the air. Take decongestant medications to reduce the impact of pressure changes in your ears.

4. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers and antibacterial wipes to keep your hands clean. Moisturize your skin frequently. Carry water in a small spray bottle to hydrate your skin during the flight.

5. Walk and stretch while flying to aid circulation in your legs and avoid clots. Do some seated stretch exercises, such as rotating your ankles, tapping your feet, pulling your knees to your chest and neck rotations.

6. Bring your own snacks and reduce consumption of caffeine and carbonated beverages that can dehydrate you. Decline cold foods such as raw salad and opt for tea or other warm drinks to promote better digestion.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid water from the lavatory sink or an open pitcher on the drink cart.

• Do not fly if you have an ear or sinus infection, flu, bronchitis or a fever. The cabin pressure during takeoff and landing could worsen these conditions.