
According to new research, the ill effects of jet lag can linger and cause long-term detriment.
As it turns out the forgetfulness and concentration issues many of us increasingly encounter especially as we get older may be the result of a source much more surprising than age. And no, I am not talking about too much experimenting with illicit substances in college either. According to new research by psychologists at the University of Berkeley, California, the root of your dilemma may be a consequence of too much air travel.
"Chronic jet lag alters the brain in ways that cause memory and learning problems long after one's return to a regular 24-hour schedule," says research news Web site ScienceDaily about the UC Berkeley findings. The report indicates jet lag, the malaise that occurs from crossing different time zones, interrupts the body's internal clock or circadian rhythm. The most severe cases have been cited in flight attendants, who "have been found to have learning and memory problems, decreased reaction times, higher incidences of diabetes, heart disease, hypertension and cancer, and reduced fertility."
According to the research, traveling west to east is the most difficult for domestic travelers. Although this particular study focused on these effects on hamsters, it appears all of us who must travel on a regular basis for business may be the guinea pigs. Seems there's always something new to worry about for modern-day businesspeople, whether it's brain tumors from cell phones, the new full-body security check scans and now jet lag-induced memory loss.
At least now next time you show up for that meeting across the country and are not at your sharpest (or perhaps even nod off) you have this material to offer as respite. You can read the entire report here.
Scott Goldfine
Other Security Blog Posts
Under Surveillance | May 16, 2013
SSI Associate Editor Ashley Willis speaks with Matrix Systems’ new CEO, Holly Tsourides. Tsourides discusses her plans for Matrix, shares sales and marketing tips, and offers advice for women in the security industry.
Under Surveillance | May 10, 2013
The May issue of SECURITY SALES & INTEGRATION includes an exclusive and in-depth interview with Gary Lederer, business leader of Honeywell Life Safety, Fire Solutions, Americas. In this bonus blog post from Managing Editor Rodney Bosch's lengthy discussion with Lederer, the industry veteran shares his thoughts on how installing fire systems contractors can find success in the marketplace, as well as issues surrounding false fire alarms.
Under Surveillance | May 2, 2013
SSI Managing Editor Rodney Bosch speaks exclusively to Kratos Public Safety and Security's (PSS) Jim Henry. In this interview, Henry shares personal insights about his family’s business, Henry Brothers, and the trajectory of his own career path.
Under Surveillance | April 25, 2013
SSI Editor-in-Chief Scott Goldfine shares highlights from DMP's second annual daylong Owner's Forum, hosted on April 9 at the Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas.
Value-Added Security | April 25, 2013
Paul Boucherle explains this newly created acronym in his latest blog.