Other than tense muscles, dehydration and sleeplessness, air travel can affect our bodies in many other ways – here’s what you need to know
When we take a plane trip our body takes a journey that affects our cardiovascular system, our sensory perceptions and possibly even our immune system. In the space of just a few minutes, your body is shot into an environment whose conditions resemble those found at altitudes of 2.5 km above sea level. Meanwhile, the air humidity falls to around 10 per cent or lower. If that’s not enough, the airflow around your body can sometimes drop to an icy 5 C when it leaves the air-conditioning vents. So conditions are indeed extreme when you’re on board an aircraft, but what effects do they have on our well-being? Read on to find out more.
“Healthy” Aeroplanes
“It is possible to design a plane whose on-board conditions match those on the ground,” says the president of the German Society of Aerospace Medicine,Professor Jochen Hinkelbein from the University Hospital of Cologne. But this would require an aircraft’s aluminium skin to be much thicker, and thus weigh several tonnes more, in order to withstand the higher air pressure inside.Airlines would also need hundreds of extra kilograms of water per flight to keep the air humidified.
Esta historia es de la edición July 2019 de The Singapore Women's Weekly.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición July 2019 de The Singapore Women's Weekly.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
Ready To Zoom
Glow up and put your best face forward on video calls
Caramel Eclairs
Choux pastry is a French classic that transforms in the oven into airy puffs with a crisp exterior, ready to be filled and iced. It may seem a little daunting to make, but it’s easy with our step-by-step guide
Clear The Air
The quality of the air you breathe inside your home has a significant impact on your health. Here’s a look at managing indoor pollution
How To Show More Compassion
It’s an unhealthy habit that we often don’t realise we are doing. Ahead, some tips on how to show more compassion
Resolving Conflicts
Living in a digital age means that many of our social interactions are done online. However, reaching out and connecting with those around us is paramount, and even more so, with tough conversations. Ahead, experts share insights to help us navigate
Mood For Mango
Mango makes refreshing and satisfying sweet treats – perfect for relaxed entertaining
Dealing With The Unknown
If you’ve endured a few bumps and detours in the game of life, don’t be disheartened – these events might just make all the difference
Our Different Butterflies
Artist and art educator Saharra discusses the importance of art education as coping strategies for our young ones during these unprecedented times
And Breathe
The simple processes of inhaling and exhaling can aid sleep, beat cravings and reduce stress. A breathing expert explains how
Great Women Of Our Time
Every year, we shine a light on 18 distinguished and powerful women in the Great Women Of Our Time Awards. They are women who are changing their field of work, and doing their best to improve life in Singapore – and the world.