Albuquerque AC: Desert Air Crashing Youth Liver?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

November 8, 2025

That persistent fatigue, that nagging feeling that something’s just off – it could be more than just the Albuquerque heat getting to you. It might be your liver quietly sending out an SOS. And while it’s easy to dismiss it, especially when you’re juggling work, family, and trying to find the best green chile cheeseburger in town, ignoring those subtle signs can have serious consequences. Let’s dive into how Albuquerque’s unique environment might be impacting your liver health, and what you can do about it.

Albuquerque’s dry air is no joke. It sucks moisture from everything, including you. This chronic dehydration can put extra stress on your liver, which needs water to function properly. Think of your liver as the city’s main water treatment plant; if the water supply is low, the plant struggles to keep up.

Then there’s the AC. We crank it up to escape the desert heat, but that recirculated air can be surprisingly dirty. Dust, allergens, and even mold spores can accumulate in AC systems, and breathing them in forces your liver to work harder to filter out these toxins.

Elevated liver enzymes, often detected through a blood test, are a sign that your liver cells are damaged or inflamed. While many factors can cause this, including alcohol consumption and certain medications, the combination of dehydration and air quality issues prevalent in Albuquerque can certainly contribute.

So, what can you do? Let’s break it down into actionable steps.

First, hydration is key. And I’m not just talking about a few sips of water here and there. Aim for at least half your body weight in ounces of water per day. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, try to drink 75 ounces of water. Carry a reusable water bottle with you everywhere, and set reminders on your phone to drink regularly. Consider adding electrolytes, especially if you’re active or spend a lot of time outdoors. Look for electrolyte powders or tablets that are low in sugar and artificial sweeteners.

Next, manage your indoor air quality. This is crucial in Albuquerque. Regularly change your AC filters – at least every three months, and even more frequently if you have pets or allergies. Invest in a good quality air purifier with a HEPA filter. These filters can trap dust, pollen, and other airborne particles that can irritate your lungs and put extra strain on your liver. Consider getting your air ducts professionally cleaned every few years to remove accumulated dust and debris.

Now, let’s talk about diet. Certain foods can support liver health. Focus on incorporating these into your diet:

Cruciferous vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and kale contain compounds that help the liver detoxify. Roast them, steam them, or add them to salads.
Garlic and onions: These contain sulfur compounds that support liver function. Use them generously in your cooking.
Beets: Beets contain antioxidants and nutrients that help protect the liver from damage. Roast them, juice them, or add them to salads.
Green tea: Green tea is rich in antioxidants that can help protect the liver from oxidative stress. Drink a cup or two per day.
Healthy fats: Olive oil, avocados, and nuts provide healthy fats that support liver function. Use olive oil for cooking and salad dressings, and snack on avocados and nuts.

Conversely, limit or avoid foods that can harm the liver:

Processed foods: These are often high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and additives that can put extra strain on the liver.
Sugary drinks: Soda, juice, and energy drinks are loaded with sugar, which can contribute to fatty liver disease.
Excessive alcohol: Alcohol is a known liver toxin. If you drink, do so in moderation.
Fried foods: Fried foods are high in unhealthy fats that can damage the liver.

Tracking your liver enzymes is important, especially if you have risk factors for liver disease. Your doctor can order a simple blood test called a liver panel to check your enzyme levels. If your levels are elevated, your doctor may recommend further testing to determine the cause.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to tracking your liver enzymes in Albuquerque:

Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician. Discuss your concerns about your liver health and ask for a liver panel.
Get your blood drawn. The lab will analyze your blood sample and send the results to your doctor.
Review your results with your doctor. Your doctor will explain your enzyme levels and discuss any necessary follow-up.
Make lifestyle changes. If your enzyme levels are elevated, follow the hydration, air quality, and dietary recommendations outlined above.
Repeat the liver panel. Your doctor may recommend repeating the liver panel in a few months to see if your enzyme levels have improved.

When should you consult a doctor in the Albuquerque area? Don’t wait for symptoms to become severe. If you experience any of the following, see a doctor right away:

Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Abdominal pain: Especially in the upper right quadrant.
Fatigue: Persistent and unexplained fatigue.
Nausea and vomiting: Frequent or severe nausea and vomiting.
Dark urine: Urine that is darker than usual.
Pale stools: Stools that are lighter in color than usual.

Several excellent gastroenterologists and hepatologists practice in Albuquerque. Ask your primary care physician for a referral.

One common pitfall is thinking that you can “detox” your liver with a quick fix. There are no magic pills or potions that can undo years of unhealthy habits. True liver health requires a long-term commitment to healthy lifestyle choices.

Another mistake is ignoring the importance of air quality. Many people focus on hydration and diet but overlook the impact of indoor air pollution. Don’t underestimate the importance of clean air for liver health.

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re struggling to make healthy lifestyle changes, consider working with a registered dietitian or a health coach. They can provide personalized guidance and support to help you achieve your goals.

Living in Albuquerque presents unique challenges to liver health, but by taking proactive steps to hydrate, manage air quality, and eat a liver-friendly diet, you can protect your liver and improve your overall well-being. Don’t let the dry air and AC get the best of you. Take control of your health and give your liver the support it needs to thrive.