Air travel can have negative impacts on the body, especially when combined with alcohol consumption and sleeping. The combination of alcohol, sleeping, and airplane air pressure can significantly decrease the oxygen supply to the body and put a strain on the heart. Researchers from the German Aviation Medical Center studied the effects of drinking, air travel, and sleeping on the body in experiments conducted on the ground.
In the study, healthy subjects were divided into two groups and slept either under normal air pressure or in a low-pressure environment similar to that of an airplane cabin. Before the second night of sleep, half of the participants consumed alcohol equivalent to two glasses of wine or a bottle of beer. The results showed that low air pressure and alcohol consumption led to a decrease in blood oxygen concentration and an increase in heart rate during sleep.
The researchers emphasized the importance of avoiding alcohol consumption during air travel, as it can exacerbate the negative effects of low air pressure on the body. Alcohol consumption under negative pressure conditions not only lowered blood oxygen levels but also increased the heart rate, putting a strain on the cardiovascular system. Additionally, alcohol consumption impaired participants’ sleep quality, leading to less time spent in deep sleep compared to those who did not consume alcohol.
The study highlighted the harmful effects of combining alcohol consumption with air travel and emphasized the importance of maintaining healthy habits during flights. Avoiding alcohol, getting enough rest, and staying hydrated can help mitigate the negative effects of air travel on the body. Researchers recommended that individuals, especially those with preexisting heart and lung conditions, take precautions to ensure their safety and well-being during air travel.