Health

Jet Lag Recovery Calculator

How many days to adjust, and when to seek light.

Enter your values

Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed.

Results
Days to fully adjust
9.1 days
Adjustment speed
40 min per day
Seek bright light
Early morning at your destination
Avoid light
Late evening

Quick answer

The body clock shifts about one hour per day westward and 40 minutes per day eastward, so eastward travel takes longer to adjust to.

How to use the Jet Lag Recovery Calculator

  1. 1Enter how many time zones you are crossing.
  2. 2Choose the direction of travel.
  3. 3Follow the light exposure guidance.

Frequently asked questions

Why is eastward harder?

The natural human circadian period is slightly longer than 24 hours, so delaying (westward) is easier than advancing (eastward).

Does melatonin help?

Low doses timed to the destination evening can speed eastward adjustment; discuss timing with a clinician.