'I'm a flight attendant - there is 1 drink you should never order on a plane'

Flying can be an enervating or relaxing experience, depending on how comfortable you feel with air travel. The onboard dining service can help calm down the nerves or amplify the feeling of satisfaction.

However, not all food and beverage options have the same effect on the body - especially at 35,000ft. As well as the altitude, the pressurised environment inside a plane cabin can pose some challenges when it comes to staying hydrated, avoiding bloating, and keeping jet lag at bay. While many opt for a glass of wine, a cup of coffee, or a G&T to kick off their journey, a flight attendant is advising caution.

In a post shared on Reddit, an ex-crew member warned: "Airline water is so bad it is recommended you not wash your hands after using the bathroom but to use hand sanitiser instead."

The same water used in the bathrooms is also used for making hot beverages on board, including coffee and tea, and that's where the concern lies.

According to the same post, passengers should "also skip that tea or coffee and get a bottled drink," claiming that "most airlines tested positive for E.coli and coliform in their water."

As for the drinks people do turn to instead, alcohol might seem like a relaxing alternative, but experts say it may have a stronger effect than you expect mid-flight.

Dr Clare Morrison of MedExpress explained: "The barometric pressure in the cabin of a plane is lower than it normally is.

"The lower level of oxygen in your blood means that you may seem more drunk in the air than you would on the ground after consuming the same amount of alcohol."

In other words, one glass of wine in the sky can feel like two on the ground - not ideal if you're hoping to land feeling refreshed.

Fizzy options can cause problems, too: Prosecco, soda, and carbonated mixers all contribute to bloating, especially at altitude.

Registered dietitian Vanessa Rissetto pointed out: "Because of pressure shifts, some people retain water during a flight."

She advised: "Try some electrolyte tabs or coconut water to help with hydration and try whole foods like veggies and fruit, or lean protein to help you feel your best."