The life of a flight attendant is often glamorous and exciting. But few people know about the tough challenges they face every day. Flight attendants are responsible for the safety and comfort of passengers and often have to work long hours in cramped quarters. Some of the challenges a flight attendant faces are:
- Extended hours: Flight attendants often have to work long hours, which can lead to fatigue and jet lag.
- Cramped quarters: Flight attendants often have to work in small spaces, which can be uncomfortable and cramped.
- Health concerns: Flight attendants are at a higher risk for developing specific health problems, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), due to their job.
With simple tips, female flight attendants can take care of their bodies and stay healthy while on the job. If you’re a flight attendant, here are a few things you should keep in mind when it comes to your health:
Get enough sleep
Flight attendants often have to work long hours, leading to fatigue. Getting enough sleep to stay alert and rested while on the job is important. Some of the problems that may occur while having no sleep that can affect their jobs are:
- Lack of alertness
- Diminished ability to make decisions
- Impaired motor skills
- Irritability
Some serious health problems would be :
- Cardiovascular disease
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Memory problems
One study found that after 17 to 19 hours without sleep, people had a similar level of cognitive ability loss as someone who has a blood-alcohol level of 0.05%, which is above the legal limit for driving in most countries. A good rule of thumb is to get at least seven hours of sleep per night. If this is not possible in your job, take a power nap during your break and use an eye mask and earplugs to block light and noise.
Eat and drink healthy
Another way to stay healthy while on the job is to eat healthy meals. Flight attendants often have to eat on the go and may not have time for a sit-down dinner. When eating on the go, try to make healthy choices such as:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
- Lean protein
- Healthy fats
One of the most effective suggestions is to eat more plant-based meals and consume fewer highly- or ultra-processed selections. Include in your routine the preparation of your meal so you can always have something healthy to eat when you’re on the go. This will help you avoid unhealthy vending machines or airport food options.
Also, skip sugary beverages and alcoholic drinks while working and opt for water or green tea instead. Drinking alcohol and caffeine can dehydrate the body and make it harder to sleep, so avoiding them while working is best. If you need to drink caffeine, drink it early in the day so it doesn’t affect your sleep at night.
Wear comfortable shoes
One of the essential tips for female flight attendants is to wear comfortable shoes. Flight attendants must be on their feet for long periods, which can lead to foot pain and swelling. Wearing comfortable shoes will help reduce foot pain and prevent swelling. Some tips for choosing comfortable shoes include:
- Avoid high heels: High heels can cause foot pain and swelling. If you must wear them, choose a low heel or wedges.
- Wear supportive shoes: Choose shoes with good arch support and cushioning to help reduce foot pain.
- Break in your shoes: Wear your shoes around the house for a few days before wearing them to work to help prevent blisters.
- Pack extra shoes: Pack an extra pair of shoes in your carry-on bag so you can change into them if your feet start to hurt.
Take care of your skin
Flight attendants are exposed to high altitudes and dry air, which can dry out their skin. It’s essential to moisturize your skin to prevent dryness, itchiness, and irritation. You may also want to carry a small bottle of lotion to reapply during your shift.
When it comes to your skincare routine, less is more. Use a gentle cleanser, toner, and moisturizer that won’t clog your pores. If you wear makeup, choose a non-comedogenic foundation or BB cream. And don’t forget to remove your makeup before going to bed.
A great skincare routine is necessary for flight attendants to have a nice appearance, so they must invest time in this area. A vitamin C serum can help brighten your skin, boosts collagen production, helps to reduce inflammation, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. According to one research, using a vitamin C product for at least three months improved the fine and coarse wrinkles on the face and neck, skin texture, and appearance.
When shopping for a vitamin C serum, look for one that contains 15 to 20 percent L-ascorbic acid. Also, check the label to ensure the product is packaged in a dark bottle, which will help keep the ingredients active.
To sum up
By following these tips, you can take care of your body and stay healthy while on the job. It’s important to remember that your health is crucial not just for yourself but also for the people who rely on you. So be sure to take some time for yourself, eat well and get plenty of sleep—it will make a big difference in how you feel physically and emotionally.
