What should you pay attention to when flying in winter?

　　The cold winter is the peak travel season, but while enjoying the convenience of flying, many people ignore the impact of the cabin environment on their bodies. The superposition of low temperature, dryness, air pressure changes and other factors can easily lead to dehydration, fatigue and even health risks. So, what should you pay attention to when flying in winter? In fact, the key is not how much to wear, but to scientifically cope with the special environment at high altitudes.

What should you pay attention to when flying in winter?

　　1. Pay attention to sun protection and prevent high-altitude ultraviolet rays

　　Although the sunshine in winter is weak, the intensity of ultraviolet rays at an altitude of 10,000 meters is still higher than that on the ground. Although aircraft portholes can filter some ultraviolet rays, flying close to the window for a long time or admiring the cloud scenery outside the window may still increase the burden on the skin and eyes. Expert advice: Avoid looking directly out of the window for a long time. If necessary, pull up the visor or apply sunscreen with SPF30 or above to protect your skin.

　　2. Stay hydrated and avoid dehydration

　　The air in the cabin is dry, and the relative humidity is often lower than 20%. In addition, the human body is prone to dehydration in winter, and symptoms such as dry mouth, chapped skin, and fatigue are more likely to occur during flights. It is recommended to drink plenty of warm water before and during the flight and avoid alcoholic and caffeinated drinks. At the same time, you can bring a moisturizing spray to relieve dry skin.

　　3. Adjust your diet and eat less refined carbohydrates

　　Research shows that consuming too many processed carbohydrates (such as bread and noodles) before flying may aggravate the body's dehydration response. It is recommended to eat more water-rich fruits and vegetables before departure, such as oranges, apples, cucumbers, etc., which can not only replenish water but also aid digestion and improve the comfort of the journey.

　　4. Wear loose clothes to keep warm and pay attention to local protection

　　When dressing in winter, you should follow the "three-layer rule": an inner layer that absorbs sweat, a middle layer that keeps you warm, and an outer layer that's windproof. Avoid wearing clothing that is too tight and affects blood circulation. At the same time, pay attention to keeping your ankles and neck warm. Scarves and socks are essential items to prevent cold wind.

　　5. Take timely activities to prevent blood clots

　　Sitting for long periods of time will affect the blood circulation of the lower limbs, and vasoconstriction is more obvious in winter, which can easily increase the risk of venous thrombosis. It is recommended to get up and walk around or do ankle rotation exercises every hour to promote blood return.

Precautions for keeping healthy in winter

　　1. Layer warmth

　　To keep warm in winter, follow the principle of "dressing in layers", focusing on protecting the neck, waist, feet and other parts that are susceptible to cold. When there is a large temperature difference between indoors and outdoors, add or remove clothing in time to avoid sudden cold and heat that stimulate vasoconstriction and reduce the risk of colds, joint pain and cardiovascular disease.

　　2. Warm and nourishing diet

　　The diet is mainly warm and nourishing. Eat more mutton, beef, yams, red dates and other ingredients, paired with white radish, cabbage and other heat-clearing and moisturizing vegetables to balance the taste. Reduce the intake of raw, cold, and spicy foods, and drink appropriate amounts of ginger, brown sugar water, and wolfberry tea to help replenish yang energy, resist cold and dampness, nourish the internal organs, and enhance the ability to resist cold.

　　3. Regular work and rest

　　Follow the winter schedule of "go to bed early, get up late, and wait for daylight". Go to bed before 10 o'clock every night and get up after the sun rises in the morning to ensure 7-8 hours of sleep. To avoid staying up late and depleting your yang energy, soak your feet for 15 minutes before going to bed to promote blood circulation. At the same time, reduce strenuous exercise and focus on resting to help the body accumulate energy and resist the cold winter.

　　Aviation medicine points out that low-oxygen and low-pressure environments at high altitudes will burden people with weak cardiopulmonary function. The elderly or patients with chronic diseases should consult a doctor before traveling. In addition, although ultraviolet rays will not directly cause cataracts or cancer, long-term frequent flyers still need to take precautions to reduce the risk of cumulative damage.