Take Melatonin or Magnesium
Traveling can be an extremely exciting experience, but if you are someone who finds it hard to adjust to different time zones and environments, it can seem like a stressful ordeal. Combating fatigue, feeling uneasy and not finding the right balance with jet lag can make the journey seem endless. Luckily, supplements like melatonin and magnesium, are proven to be the ultimate travellers’ best friend throughout the entire experience. Before you travel, learn which of these natural supplements is right for you.
What is Melatonin?
Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It helps regulate the body’s sleep/wake cycles, known as circadian rhythms. When it is dark, melatonin production increases, while it decreases in daylight. During transatlantic and long haul flights, melatonin production can be disrupted, causing fatigue, irritability and restlessness. Supplementing melatonin has been shown to improve sleep, reduce jet lag and elevate mood.
Benefits of Taking Melatonin for Travel
• Melatonin helps support the bodies natural circadian rhythm, allowing travellers to have an easy transition from one place to the next.
• Taking melatonin can help reduce time change associated stress and fatigue, so your vacations won’t be ruined by feeling out of sorts.
• Studies have shown that continuous use of melatonin leads to an increased general well-being, as well as improved cognitive functioning.
• Melatonin is a natural hormone, so it is generally considered safe to use. Studies suggest that melatonin has few or no side effects or drug interactions.
• The main benefits of using melatonin before travel are reduced jet lag and improved sleep, so it can help travellers feel more energetic during their adventures.
What is Magnesium?
Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral found in a variety of foods, such as whole grains, nuts and seeds, dark green vegetables and fortified foods. It’s involved in more than 300 biochemical reactions in the human body and is also a common dietary supplement. Magnesium helps your body utilise energy, build proteins, create new tissues and muscles, remove toxins, and regulate levels of hormones and neurotransmitters.
Benefits of Taking Magnesium for Travel
• Magnesium can help reduce jet lag, as well as physical and mental fatigue.
• It can also help the body handle external stressors and illness better, which can be helpful when travelling.
• Because magnesium helps regulate the circadian rhythm, it can improve overall sleep quality and length.
• Magnesium can also help with stomach discomfort, such as indigestion, while travelling.
• Magnesium can help keep your blood pressure regulated and can help reduce stress-induced spikes.
Which Supplement is Right for You?
Ultimately, the decision of which supplement to take when travelling comes down to personal preference. If you are someone who needs help falling asleep, melatonin may be the right choice for you. However, if you are looking for a more holistic approach to the travel experience, magnesium may be the way to go.
Try to decide which supplement would work best for your body and lifestyle so you can get the most out of your travels. However, it is always best to consult with a licensed healthcare professional to go over any potential risks or side effects before supplementing with either melatonin or magnesium.
Taking melatonin or magnesium before travelling is a great way to ensure you arrive feeling your best. Both supplements can help reduce jet lag, fatigue and stress that comes with travelling, so you can focus on having an enjoyable experience. Ask your doctor whether they believe one of these supplements could be beneficial for you before you set off on your next great adventure.
