How jet lag affects the body's internal clock and functions

Jet Lag Disorder (JLD) is associated with circadian misalignment following rapid transmeridian jet travel.

• JLD is characterized by insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, and sometimes general malaise.
• Circadian misalignment occurs when the internal biological clock cannot keep pace with new time zones.
• Light exposure and melatonin secretion play crucial roles in regulating circadian timing.
• Timed light exposure and melatonin administration may help accelerate circadian realignment.
• Other factors contributing to jet lag include travel-related sleep deprivation and fatigue.
• Clinical trials have explored circadian rhythm-based interventions for treating JLD.

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