Dancing in Cuba, surfing in Bali, diving in the Maldives, Piña Colada drinking in Hawaii, bungee jumping in New Zealand, all this is just a flight away. But the health risks of these long-haul flights should not be underestimated. Due to long sitting, lack of exercise, and low levels of humidity on board, there is a risk of travel thrombosis.
The Saharan Desert Air is More Moist than the Air on Board Your Plane
The dry air increases the aggregation tendency of the platelets, which means that they stick together more easily. For comparison: Even the desert air of the Sahara is wetter than the air in the cabin of an airplane. In addition, the majority of passengers drink too little during the flight and the body can lose a liter of water on long-haul flights.
Our veins do not like this at all and they react with a slowing down of the blood flow in the deep leg veins, which can lead to thickening of the blood and in the worst case to clotting.
Fit for the Long Haul
To avoid travel thrombosis, you should drink enough on long-haul flights. Of course, we are talking about water and not about alcoholic drinks or sugary juices offered by many airlines. Now you may ask yourself what the cliché of tomato juice is all about on board. However, the phenomenon surrounding the popularity of this tasty drink on air travel has not yet been fully clarified.
However, there are many theories. One attempt to explain the high demand for tomato juice is the changed sense of taste on board. Fruity notes are more noticeable above the clouds, so the pressed tomato tastes better.
Another theory assumes that we unconsciously demand the electrolytes contained in the juice. Potassium, for example, contributes to muscle relaxation. An effect that is particularly advantageous for people who are somewhat tense when travelling.
In addition, the antioxidants contained in tomato juice capture vitamin A, vitamin C and lycopene free radicals and thus protect the organism, which is exposed to increased stress during long-haul flights. However, the small portion served on board only covers a small part of the need for these nutrients.
Tomato extract helps maintain normal platelet aggregation.
Concentrated Prevention of Thrombosis
If you want to be good to your veins and prevent thrombosis, choose a special tomato concentrate before a long-haul flight. Here, the concentrated power of the fruit is used in pressed form.
The effect of tomato extract on blood flow has been scientifically proven and has even been confirmed by the European Food Safety Authority EFSA with the health claim “to maintain normal platelet aggregation”. The special concentrate ensures that the smooth surface of the platelets is maintained for up to 18 hours and clumping is prevented. Perfect for all those who want to stay level on long-haul flights.
Furthermore, comfortable clothing is recommended so that blood circulation is not impeded. It is also recommended to get up at least once per flying hour and to move your legs while sitting.
Other useful tips on how to survive your trips in a healthy and relaxed way can be found here.
