Protect yourself from those airplane germs | The Honolulu Advertiser

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Protect yourself from those airplane germs | The Honolulu Advertiser | Hawaii's Newspaper

Posted on: Thursday, June 1, 2006

PRESCRIPTIONS
Protect yourself from those airplane germs

By Laurie Steelsmith

Q. This summer I'll be taking a long trip, and I always get sick after an extended flight. Do you have suggestions on how I can stay healthy on an airplane?

A. There are many things you can do to keep yourself healthy while flying. First, prepare your body for a long trip by being in good shape before you embark. Second, take steps to protect yourself from microbes and viruses on an airplane.

Before leaving on your trip, drink more water than usual so you're well hydrated — even before you board the plane. If the mucous membranes of your mouth, sinuses, eyes and throat are well hydrated, they will act as a more effective barrier to microbes and viruses than if they are dry.

Keep in mind that the air in airplanes is probably much drier than what you're used to. In Hawai'i it's usually humid (52 to 81 percent, depending on the month), while airplane humidity is generally below 25 percent.

To keep your mucous membranes hydrated, I recommend that you:

Drink at least eight ounces of water or fluid for every hour that you are flying. Avoid drinks that tend to dehydrate, such as coffee, caffeinated tea and alcohol.

Wear a mask over your mouth and nose if you are flying a long distance. This not only helps protect you from airborne microbes and viruses, but may also allow the air you breathe to retain slightly more moisture.

Use eye drops that moisten your eyes, such as Similasan Homeopathic Eye Drops for dry, red eyes. Apply one drop in each eye for every hour that you are on the plane.

Use Xlear Nasal Wash, a convenient spray, before boarding the plane, and every two hours while in flight. It contains xylitol, a naturally occurring compound known to have antibacterial properties. (You can find it at www.xlear.com.)

Use sugar-free throat lozenges to help keep your throat moist, or use a throat spray every hour while flying. One of my favorites is Source Naturals Wellness Throat Spray, which is available at many health food stores.

I also recommend using a waterless hand sanitizer gel that kills germs. Apply it frequently while on the airplane, especially after using the restrooms. And avoid ingesting a lot of sugar — sugar reduces the effectiveness of your immune system.

Have a great trip!

Dr. Laurie Steelsmith is a naturopathic physician, licensed acu-puncturist, and author of "Natural Choices for Women's Health" (Random House, 2005). Reach her or read her past columns at www.drsteelsmith.com. This column is for information only. Consult your health provider for medical advice.

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