**Taos Cycles: Altitude Air Crashing Summer Moods?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe crisp mountain air bites with a deceptive sweetness. You feel invigorated, ready to conquer the trails around Taos, New Mexico. But by mid-afternoon, a throbbing headache sets in, your energy vanishes, and you’re reaching for water like it’s liquid gold. You’ve been “air crashed,” a common experience for both visitors and residents of high-altitude locales. It’s more than just altitude sickness; it’s a complex interplay of factors exacerbated by the summer heat and increased activity.
The key to thriving in Taos, or any high-altitude town, isn’t just about drinking more water. It’s about understanding the specific challenges and crafting a personalized strategy.
Let’s start with hydration. Generic advice tells you to drink more water. But how much more? And what kind? The dry desert air of Taos, combined with the lower air density at 7,000+ feet, means you lose water faster through respiration and perspiration. A simple rule of thumb is to increase your daily water intake by at least 50%. But don’t just chug plain water.
Consider adding electrolytes. Sodium, potassium, and magnesium are crucial for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function. Many sports drinks are loaded with sugar. Instead, opt for electrolyte tablets or powders with minimal sugar. Nuun and LMNT are good choices, but experiment to find what works best for your body. A pinch of Himalayan pink salt in your water can also help.
Timing is also critical. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Sip water consistently throughout the day, especially before, during, and after physical activity. Carry a reusable water bottle and make it a constant companion.
Next, let’s tackle the electrolyte imbalance. The summer heat in Taos can lead to significant electrolyte loss through sweat. This is compounded by the diuretic effect of altitude, which can further deplete electrolytes.
Don’t just blindly reach for a sports drink. Understand your individual needs. If you’re a heavy sweater, you’ll need more sodium. If you experience muscle cramps, you might be deficient in magnesium or potassium.
Consider getting a sweat test. While not readily available in Taos itself, you can find facilities in larger cities like Albuquerque. This test analyzes the electrolyte content of your sweat, providing personalized recommendations for electrolyte replacement.
In the meantime, focus on consuming electrolyte-rich foods. Leafy greens, avocados, bananas, and nuts are excellent sources of potassium and magnesium. Salty snacks like pretzels or salted nuts can help replenish sodium.
Now, let’s address altitude acclimation. Moving to or visiting Taos requires your body to adapt to the lower oxygen levels. This process takes time and can be challenging, especially during the summer when you’re more active.
Don’t jump into intense workouts immediately. Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your activities. Listen to your body and rest when needed.
Consider altitude-acclimation-focused fitness routines. These routines involve interval training at varying intensities to stimulate red blood cell production and improve oxygen utilization. Consult with a local fitness professional who understands the challenges of high-altitude training.
A common mistake is pushing yourself too hard too soon. This can lead to altitude sickness, which can derail your acclimation process. Be patient and persistent, and your body will eventually adapt.
Beyond hydration, electrolytes, and acclimation, there are other factors that can contribute to “air crashing.” One often overlooked aspect is sleep quality.
The summer heat in Taos can disrupt sleep, leading to fatigue and decreased performance. Invest in blackout curtains to block out the early morning sun. Use a fan or air conditioner to keep your bedroom cool.
Consider a white noise machine or earplugs to block out any distracting sounds. A cool, dark, and quiet sleep environment is essential for optimal recovery.
Another factor is decreased blood oxygen levels. At high altitude, your body has to work harder to extract oxygen from the air. This can lead to fatigue, headaches, and other symptoms.
Consider exploring alternative therapies like hyperbaric oxygen. While not a cure-all, hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help increase blood oxygen levels and promote healing. There are clinics in Albuquerque that offer this treatment.
Iron deficiency can also exacerbate the effects of altitude. Iron is essential for red blood cell production, which carries oxygen throughout the body.
Get your iron levels checked by your doctor. If you’re deficient, consider taking an iron supplement. However, be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplements.
Finally, be mindful of your diet. Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks, which can dehydrate you and deplete your energy levels. Focus on consuming whole, unprocessed foods that are rich in nutrients.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats. These foods will provide your body with the fuel it needs to thrive at high altitude.
Living and thriving in Taos, New Mexico, or any high-altitude town, requires a proactive and personalized approach. It’s not just about drinking more water; it’s about understanding the specific challenges and crafting a strategy that works for your body. By focusing on hydration, electrolyte optimization, altitude acclimation, sleep quality, blood oxygen levels, and diet, you can conquer “air crashing” and enjoy all that Taos has to offer.