Ever wondered if you should have that glass of wine before napping on a plane? You might want to think twice.

However, after some personal experiences and digging into expert advice, I learned that drinking alcohol on a plane can actually make things worse, especially if you plan to sleep.

Let me share what I’ve discovered and how it’s changed the way I travel.

The Hidden Dangers of Alcohol on Flights

I learned from Dr. Mary Branch, a board-certified cardiologist, that people with severe obstructive sleep apnea, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, sarcoidosis, or heart failure should definitely avoid alcohol on flights. The health risks are just too high. Even if you’re healthy, drinking on a plane can still cause problems like dehydration and poor sleep.

She says you don’t have to give up alcohol entirely if you’re healthy, just limit your intake on flights.

Why It’s Worse Than You Think?

Here’s what I found out. Drinking alcohol on a plane can do more harm than good, especially if you’re planning to nap. A group of German researchers did a study that was published in thorax. where they had people sleep in a space that mimicked plane conditions. They found some pretty alarming stuff:

Heart Strain: Even two glasses of wine can increase your heart rate by Lindsay Malone
Lower Oxygen: Alcohol can drop your oxygen levels.
Poor Sleep: Alcohol reduces REM sleep, so you wake up feeling tired.
Expert Advice: Health experts recommend avoiding alcohol on flights, especially if you plan to sleep.

And it’s not just about feeling tired. If you have any heart or lung issues, this combo can be really dangerous.

How to Stay Safe and Rested?

So, what can you do to avoid these problems and still enjoy your flight? Here’s what I do now, and it makes a big difference:

Skip the Alcohol: Save your drinks for when you land. It’s better for your heart and lungs.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water. Flying can dehydrate you, and alcohol makes it worse.
Bring Comfort Items: Pack an eye mask, a blanket, and a neck pillow. These help you relax and sleep better without needing a drink.
Choose Non-Alcoholic Options: If you want something special, try a low-sugar mocktail or even a non-alcoholic beer.
Prepare for Sleep: Before you nap, listen to a calming meditation or read a book. It helps me wind down without alcohol.

Final Thoughts

Next time you’re on a plane, remember these tips. They’ve helped me feel much better during and after flights. You’ll arrive at your destination well-rested and ready to enjoy your trip. Safe travels!