The symptoms

Feeling grungy after you've stepped off a plane isn't jet lag; nor can sitting next to a chatty passenger for six hours straight cause it. Rather, here are the most common symptoms of jet lag:

• Disturbed sleep (insomnia, daytime sleepiness, early waking)
• Irritability
• Upset stomach
• Difficulty concentrating
• Difficulty functioning at your usual level
• Muscle soreness

Remedies — before you board

While jet lag is temporary, usually lasting just a day or two, there are ways to minimize its effects and ensure that you recover faster. Here's how — from the boarding gate to the tarmac.

• Be book smart. Whether you're travelling for an important business meeting or a family reunion, book your trip so that you arrive a few days in advance. Your body will thank you for the much-needed recovery time.
• Rest up. Arriving at your destination in an already sleep-deprived state will only make your jet lag worse.

Remedies — en route

• Drink plenty of water throughout your flight
• Avoid drinking alcohol or caffeinated beverages during your flight
• Take short walks around the airplane cabin
• Eat light meals with plenty of fruits and vegetables

Remedies — when you arrive

• Get some sun. If possible, take a walk outside since daylight will help reset your body's internal clock to your current location.
• Start the day right with a high protein breakfast to stimulate the production of hormones, which will help you stay awake during the day.
• Adapt to your new schedule. Your body may be begging you for lullabies even though it's lunchtime at your destination. But wait until night to sleep since this will help your body get back on track as quickly as possible.

Certainly, jet lag is an unfortunate side effect of coast-to-coast travel. But by taking the proper precautions, there can be a minimum price to pay for the glamorous life.