Natural Health with Megan Sheppard: What can I do to protect myself from a cold after flying

I always seem to end up with a cold after flying, even short-haul trips. I assume that it is in part due to the recycled air. What can I do to protect myself, as I am due to fly again next month?

This is a common problem experienced by about a fifth of all passengers. You are right to question the recirculated air, as this can weaken your immune response, but there are a number of things you can do to strengthen and support your immunity before you travel.

The most important thing you can do to combat the drying environment of the cabin is to drink plenty of water, or an electrolyte drink, and also hydrate your skin from the outside with a small spray bottle. I always carry a bottle with two-thirds rose hydrosol and one-third aloe vera juice to spritz my face as needed during a flight. Keeping hydrated helps to prevent headache, fatigue, and reduces the effects of travel stress on your body. Remember to take your vitamins before, during, and after your trip. Vitamin C builds resistance to infection, as well as being crucial for healing. Zinc is an important mineral for immunity, in fact, the body secretes zinc into fluids as an antiseptic which is why it is useful in treating sore throats, respiratory infections, gastroenteritis, ulcers, urinary disorders, and thrush.