Dr Zoe Williams has shed light on why you might feel unwell during a flight. Many travellers experience bloating and constipation on long-haul flights, a condition often dubbed 'gut lag. ' This can start as soon as the plane takes off and is triggered by the expansion of stomach gases as air pressure drops.
This so-called 'gut lag' can also occur during and after the flight when the body's circadian rhythm, or internal 24-hour clock, is disrupted by crossing time zones. This disruption can impact the functioning of internal organs, including the gastrointestinal tract and liver. In addition to this, gut microbes, which are in sync with the body clock, may also be affected, leading to changes in the microbiome.
As a result, symptoms such as bloating, indigestion, and discomfort may occur as the body tries to adjust. So, what can we do before, during and after a flight to help? Working with Activia to educate consumers about the role of the gut in our overall well-being as the gut is where it all begins - Dr Williams - a regular on ITV's This Morning - suggests that while caring for your gut might not be your top priority before going on holiday, incorporating small easy habits into your routine pre and post holiday can significantly affect the gut and may reduce the effects of gut lag. Dr Zoe's tips to avoid 'gut lag' The health expert says that a "varied diet with a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes and wholegrains, as well as fermented foods can help e.