Taos Air: Altitude Stealing Electrolyte Youth?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

November 4, 2025

That crisp mountain air… it’s calling your name, isn’t it? You’ve booked your Taos Air flight, dreaming of hitting the slopes or exploring the high desert. But are you truly prepared for the physiological impact of that rapid ascent from sea level to 7,000+ feet?

Flying directly into Taos, New Mexico, especially from lower altitude states like Florida or Texas, presents a unique challenge to active adults over 50. The combination of lower oxygen levels and Taos’ arid climate can wreak havoc on your electrolyte balance and perceived energy levels, turning your dream vacation into a sluggish, headache-filled ordeal. This isn’t just about drinking more water; it’s about understanding the specific physiological demands and proactively addressing them.

The primary culprit is altitude. As you ascend, the partial pressure of oxygen decreases, meaning less oxygen is available to your body. This triggers a cascade of physiological responses, including increased respiration and heart rate, as your body attempts to compensate. This increased respiration leads to greater fluid loss, exacerbating dehydration, and depleting crucial electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium.

Dehydration, in turn, thickens the blood, making it harder for your heart to pump and further reducing oxygen delivery to your muscles. The dry desert air of Taos amplifies this effect, drawing moisture from your skin and respiratory system. The result? Fatigue, headaches, muscle cramps, and a general feeling of malaise.

For active adults over 50, these effects can be even more pronounced. Age-related changes in kidney function can impair electrolyte regulation, making you more susceptible to imbalances. Furthermore, many older adults are already taking medications that can affect hydration and electrolyte levels, such as diuretics or blood pressure medications.

So, how do you combat this? A proactive, targeted approach is key. This isn’t about generic hydration advice; it’s about a specific pre- and post-flight protocol tailored to the unique challenges of flying into Taos.

Pre-Flight Protocol (24-48 hours before departure):

• Hydration Loading: Begin aggressively hydrating with water and electrolyte-rich fluids. Aim for at least half your body weight in ounces of water per day. For example, a 150-pound person should drink at least 75 ounces.
• Electrolyte Supplementation: Start supplementing with electrolytes. Don’t just grab a sports drink loaded with sugar. Instead, opt for a high-quality electrolyte supplement containing sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Look for products with minimal added sugar and artificial ingredients. A good starting point is 500mg of sodium, 300mg of potassium, and 150mg of magnesium per day, divided into two doses.
• Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: These are diuretics and will further dehydrate you. If you must have your morning coffee, compensate with extra water.
• Increase Potassium Intake: Focus on potassium-rich foods like bananas, sweet potatoes, spinach, and avocados. Potassium helps regulate fluid balance and muscle function.
• Consider a Pre-Flight IV Drip: For those particularly susceptible to altitude sickness, a pre-flight IV drip containing fluids and electrolytes can provide a significant boost. This is especially beneficial for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking medications that affect hydration. Consult with your doctor before considering this option.

In-Flight Protocol:

• Hydrate Continuously: Drink water throughout the flight. Airplane air is notoriously dry, so aim for at least 8 ounces of water per hour.
• Electrolyte Tablets: Pack electrolyte tablets or powder to add to your water. This will help replenish electrolytes lost through perspiration and respiration.
• Avoid Alcohol and Sugary Drinks: Stick to water and electrolyte-rich beverages.
• Move Around: Get up and walk around the cabin periodically to improve circulation and prevent blood clots. This also helps with oxygen delivery to your muscles.

Post-Flight Protocol (First 24-48 hours in Taos):

• Continue Hydrating: Maintain your aggressive hydration strategy.
• Electrolyte Replenishment: Continue supplementing with electrolytes. You may need to increase your dosage slightly, depending on your activity level and how you feel.
• Rest and Acclimatize: Avoid strenuous activity for the first 24 hours. Give your body time to adjust to the altitude.
• Monitor Your Symptoms: Pay attention to any symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, fatigue, or shortness of breath. If you experience these symptoms, rest, hydrate, and consider taking over-the-counter pain relievers. If symptoms worsen, seek medical attention.
• Adjust Your Fitness Routine: Reduce the intensity and duration of your workouts. Focus on low-impact activities like walking or yoga. Listen to your body and don’t push yourself too hard.
• DIY Electrolyte Drink Recipe: Create your own electrolyte drink tailored to Taos’ dry climate:
  • 1 liter of water
  • 1/4 teaspoon of Himalayan pink salt (sodium)
  • 1/4 teaspoon of potassium chloride (available at most health food stores)
  • 1/4 teaspoon of magnesium citrate powder
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon or lime (for flavor and added electrolytes)
  • Optional: A touch of raw honey or maple syrup for sweetness (use sparingly)

This recipe provides a balanced blend of electrolytes without the added sugar and artificial ingredients found in many commercial sports drinks. The lemon or lime juice also provides vitamin C, which can help boost your immune system and protect against oxidative stress.

Addressing Skin Health:

The dry air in Taos can also wreak havoc on your skin, leading to dryness, cracking, and irritation. To combat this:

• Moisturize Frequently: Apply a thick, hydrating moisturizer several times a day, especially after showering or washing your hands. Look for moisturizers containing hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and shea butter.
• Use a Humidifier: Run a humidifier in your hotel room to increase the humidity level.
• Avoid Hot Showers: Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils. Opt for lukewarm showers and use a gentle, moisturizing soap.
• Protect Your Skin from the Sun: The sun is more intense at higher altitudes, so wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, even on cloudy days.
• Consider a Hydrating Facial Mask: Apply a hydrating facial mask a few times a week to replenish moisture and soothe your skin.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them:

• Starting Too Late: Don’t wait until you arrive in Taos to start hydrating and supplementing with electrolytes. Begin your protocol at least 24-48 hours before departure.
• Overdoing It: While hydration is crucial, drinking too much water can also be dangerous, leading to hyponatremia (low sodium levels). Stick to the recommended guidelines and listen to your body.
• Ignoring Symptoms: Don’t dismiss symptoms of altitude sickness as just being tired. Pay attention to your body and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.
• Relying on Sports Drinks Alone: Most sports drinks are loaded with sugar and don’t provide adequate electrolytes. Opt for a high-quality electrolyte supplement or make your own electrolyte drink.
• Not Adjusting Your Fitness Routine: Don’t try to maintain your normal workout intensity and duration. Reduce your activity level and listen to your body.

Flying to Taos doesn’t have to leave you feeling drained and depleted. By understanding the physiological challenges and implementing a proactive hydration and supplementation protocol, you can arrive feeling energized and ready to enjoy all that this beautiful mountain town has to offer. Remember, preparation is key to maximizing your experience and minimizing the impact of altitude on your body. So, pack your electrolytes, hydrate diligently, and get ready to explore the magic of Taos!