The swine flu outbreak has made big news headlines this year and has had a serious impact on many people’s travel plans. We’ve heard of some contacts who have had to cancel holiday flights to the US on orders of their employers (big corporations). Let’s discuss some ways of trying to remain healthy if you do have to take that flight.

Obviously sitting in a confined metal tube with hundreds of other passengers means there is always a risk of catching something. Generally, economy passengers in close proximity to each other carry a slightly higher risk than those travelling in the more spaced out business and first class. That said, if the passenger next to you in any class has the flu your risk factor is magnified.

If you are a corporate flyer and/or have the means, consider using private jets to minimise contact with other passengers on board and at airports. For most this won’t be a possiblilty – so when flying on commercial airlines there are a few prevention measures we can take:

-Hydration – Drink plenty of natural mineral water and avoid dehydrating liquids such as alcohol, coffee, tea and carbonated soft drinks. Once past security you can buy water at the airport.

-Eat only lightly on board as digestion is slowed and takes up a lot of energy. It is better to eat on the ground before and after your flight – if you have access to a quality lounge then exercise your pre-flight dining option; alternatively find a good restaurant at the airport or bring your own food.

-Remember to wash your hands regularly and avoid hand contact with your mouth. Be aware of what you are touching – lavatory door handles, in-flight entertainment players, tray tables, laptop keyboard, your mobile phone – any of these could be contaminated with bacteria.

-If you are really paranoid you could wear a face mask during your travels – this could be uncomfortable on a long flight though and you will probably feel a bit strange if no-one else is wearing them! Standard 3M masks (N95 and N100) are classed as dust respirators – they will reduce but not eliminate the risk.

-In the week before you fly try to eat a healthy, balanced diet – include plenty of garlic, onions and use herbs like oregano – all exhibit “antibacterial properties”. Eat citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons) for a shot of vitamin C. You should also stay well rested.

-Make sure you get some exercise during the flight and go for a walk outside when you arrive at your destination.

-Keep your immune system in the best possible shape before you travel with a regular supplement program. Probably the best daily natural supplement for air travellers (or any traveller for that matter) is Total Balance (*) from New Zealand. We have used this product for 4 years in combination with their Omega 3 DHA Fish Oil (*) and give them our highest recommendation. Their customer service is friendly and top notch.

For further protection against any flu they also produce a natural supplement called Viral Protec (*) – this is optimal when used in combination with Total Balance.

Note: Article is for information purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or instruction. Always consult your doctor or a qualified health professional on any health matters.

(*) Affiliate product link – this site receives a small commission from referring any sales.

This entry was posted on Monday, June 22nd, 2009 at 8:44 pm and is filed under Tips. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.