TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Travelers about to embark on a journey are advised to consume zinc and vitamin C, especially two hours before arriving at a crowded airport, station, or bus terminal for traveling. This is to prevent getting sick upon arrival at the destination.
During travel by plane, train, or bus, passengers are in enclosed spaces with poor air circulation. Travel stress, sleep disturbances, and exposure to new environments can compromise the immune system.
Steve Burgess, a doctor and founder of CME Vacations, stated that taking supplements is often overlooked. However, if taken at the right time, it can provide the immune system with a targeted boost to fight off germs when it's most needed.
Think of it as using an umbrella before walking in the rain, rather than waiting until you're soaking wet. These supplements temporarily enhance certain immune functions, but the boost only lasts for a few hours," he said as reported by New York Post.
Burgess added that for long journeys with connecting travel, consider taking another dose before each new flight or train journey, but within reasonable limits.
"I see many common misconceptions among travelers, from taking large doses of vitamins during travel to blaming the aircraft's air quality while overlooking surface contact," Burgess said.
Benefits of Zinc and vitamin C
Zinc helps prevent viruses from multiplying and infecting the respiratory tract. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of zinc can protect the body from autoimmune diseases and allergies. Research suggests that consuming zinc within 24 hours of the onset of a cold can help reduce its duration and severity. Zinc lozenges are easier to consume directly in the throat and respiratory tract, where infections occur.
Meanwhile, vitamin C enhances various cellular immune functions that help prevent infection. "There's no need for expensive supplements or complicated rules. Just affordable, common supplements taken at the right time," he said.
He recommends consuming 15 to 25 milligrams of zinc and 500 to 1000 milligrams of vitamin C. Continuous high doses can cause digestive problems. In addition to taking supplements, maintaining cleanliness and staying hydrated will help the supplements work more effectively and counteract the dehydration effects of flying.
Maintaining Cleanliness and Hydration
Heather Viola, a primary care doctor at Mount Sinai Doctors-Ansonia, reminds us to always wash hands, using hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol to prevent the spread of germs.
"Many airlines provide alcohol-based disinfectant wipes when you board a flight. I use these wipes to clean the seat, headrest, armrest, tray table, and entertainment screen-basically anything you might touch while sitting in your seat," she said as reported by Huffington Post.
As for staying hydrated, Viola suggests bringing electrolytes. "This is a good way to stay hydrated with more than just water and help prevent nausea or dehydration during the flight," she added.
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