British tourists should ‘eat light’ before flying

Flight attendant explains how to properly pack a bag

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

Jetting off on a foreign holiday is always exciting. However, some Britons, unfortunately, struggle with plane sickness. Express.co.uk spoke to Dr. Hagar El Habti at King Edward VII’s hospital to find out how to stay healthy in the air.

Eat light before you fly

“The change in air pressure can have a gastrointestinal effect, whereby you become more bloated or feel pressure in your stomach.

“Try and plan ahead before you fly and avoid having too big a meal before you take off, eating small meals while on board, and steer clear of pulses or legumes known to cause gas.”

Some foods can raise the risk of uncomfortable gas and are best avoided before a plane journey.

Beans, peas, lentils, and broccoli are known to cause gas and might be ones to skip before a flight.

Practice mindfulness

“Some people can suffer with quite intense anxiety before and during a flight, also known as aerophobia.

“This can be due to fear of heights, being in an enclosed space or fear of accidents.

“Practice mindful activities such as listening to your favourite podcast or reading a book which can help take your mind off the fear.

“If you find your anxiety is impacting on your day-to-day life, you may need to discuss further options with your doctor, which can vary from therapy to anti-anxiety medicines.”

Wear compression stockings

“Immobility increases the risk of feet swelling due to blood pooling in your legs, as the lack of activity means blood circulation slows.

“Depending on the duration of your flight and co-morbidities some people may be at increased risk.

“To help minimise the risk of this, keep moving the legs and feet regularly, get up and walk around a bit and wear compression stockings that can be purchased from most pharmacies.”

Stretch your legs

“Lack of movement and not having enough leg room to stretch, can increase the likelihood of developing a DVT.

“This occurs when being immobile leads to a lack of blood flow in the veins, usually in the legs, which can cause potentially life-threatening clotting.

“It’s important to try and get up and stretch your legs, even if it’s just walking from one end of the aisle to the other.

“You could also opt for a seat with extra leg room, particularly if you’re in the group at increased risk of DVT.”

People are at increased risk of deep vein thrombosis if they have recently had surgery or are pregnant.

Travellers with obesity or who have cancer are also at an increased leg and should try simple leg stretches well onboard.

Staying hydrated can also lower the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis on a long-haul flight.

Passengers can also speak to a doctor ahead of their flight if they are especially worried about blood clots.

Source: Read Full Article