Taos Air: Altitude Lies Crashing Liver Youth?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe crisp mountain air bites at your cheeks, a stark contrast to the warmth of the Taos sun. You step off the plane, eager to explore the ancient pueblo and vibrant art scene. But a nagging worry creeps in: is this altitude going to wreak havoc on your body? The dry air, intense sun, and thinner atmosphere can indeed present unique challenges, especially concerning your liver and the aging process. Let’s dive into how to navigate these high-altitude hurdles and keep your body thriving in Taos.
Flying into Taos, New Mexico, isn’t just a change of scenery; it’s a physiological shift. The elevation, hovering around 7,000 feet, means less oxygen. This forces your body to work harder, impacting everything from your breathing to your liver function.
Your liver, the unsung hero of detoxification, is particularly vulnerable at altitude. It’s responsible for processing toxins, metabolizing nutrients, and producing essential substances. Lower oxygen levels can impair its efficiency, leading to a buildup of harmful compounds.
Think of your liver as a high-performance engine. At sea level, it runs smoothly. But at altitude, with less oxygen, it sputters and struggles. This can manifest as fatigue, headaches, and even digestive issues.
So, what can you do to protect your liver when visiting Taos? Hydration is key, but not just any hydration. We’re talking about strategic hydration tailored to support liver function.
First, ditch the sugary drinks and excessive caffeine. These put extra stress on your liver. Instead, opt for water infused with electrolytes.
Electrolytes, like sodium, potassium, and magnesium, are crucial for maintaining fluid balance and supporting cellular function. At altitude, you lose electrolytes more quickly through increased respiration and perspiration.
Consider adding a pinch of Himalayan pink salt to your water. It contains trace minerals that can aid in electrolyte replenishment. You can find Himalayan pink salt at the Taos Farmers Market or at local health food stores like Cid’s Food Market.
Another excellent option is to incorporate liver-supporting herbs into your hydration routine. Milk thistle, dandelion root, and artichoke extract are known for their detoxifying properties.
You can find these herbs in tea form at Taos Herb Company, a local gem offering a wide selection of organic and wildcrafted herbs. Brew a cup of milk thistle tea and sip it throughout the day to give your liver a gentle boost.
Beyond hydration, consider supplementing with N-acetylcysteine (NAC). NAC is a precursor to glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that plays a vital role in liver detoxification.
You can find NAC supplements at most pharmacies in Taos, such as Walgreens or Smith’s. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Now, let’s address the other concern: accelerated aging. The high altitude in Taos presents a double whammy: intense UV radiation and dry air.
UV radiation is significantly stronger at higher altitudes. This means increased risk of sun damage, premature wrinkles, and even skin cancer.
The dry air, typical of the high desert climate, sucks moisture from your skin, leaving it dry, flaky, and more susceptible to damage. This can exacerbate the effects of UV radiation, leading to accelerated aging.
But don’t despair! With the right skincare routine, you can combat these effects and maintain a youthful glow. The key is to focus on hydration and sun protection.
Start with a gentle cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Avoid harsh soaps and sulfates. A good option is the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, readily available at local drugstores.
Next, incorporate a hydrating serum into your routine. Look for serums containing hyaluronic acid, which can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a budget-friendly option that delivers impressive results. You can find it at Ulta Beauty in Santa Fe, a short drive from Taos.
Follow up with a rich moisturizer to lock in hydration. Look for moisturizers containing ceramides, which help to strengthen the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss.
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is a popular choice that’s both effective and affordable. It’s available at most pharmacies in Taos.
And finally, the most crucial step: sunscreen. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply it liberally and reapply every two hours, especially when spending time outdoors.
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a dermatologist-recommended sunscreen that’s lightweight and non-comedogenic. You can find it at select spas and skincare clinics in Taos, such as the Taos Spa & Tennis Club.
Don’t forget to protect your lips! The dry air can quickly chap and crack your lips. Use a lip balm with SPF throughout the day.
Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm with SPF is a classic choice that’s readily available at most stores in Taos.
One common mistake people make is neglecting their hands. Your hands are constantly exposed to the elements, so they need extra care. Apply a hand cream with SPF regularly.
Another pitfall is forgetting to hydrate from the inside out. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and plump.
Consider investing in a humidifier for your hotel room or rental property. This will help to add moisture to the air and prevent your skin from drying out.
You can find humidifiers at Walmart in Taos.
Finally, remember that stress can also contribute to aging. Take time to relax and de-stress during your trip. Explore the Taos Pueblo, hike in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, or simply enjoy the stunning sunsets.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your trip to Taos without worrying about your liver or your skin. Embrace the beauty of the high desert and let your inner radiance shine. Remember, preparation and proactive care are your best allies in navigating the unique challenges of high-altitude living.