Taos Livers: Altitude Air Stealing NAC Youth?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 11, 2026

The crisp mountain air of Taos, New Mexico, is a siren song to athletes seeking an edge. But sometimes, the pursuit of peak performance leads down paths paved with questionable supplements and practices. Are young athletes in Taos turning to N-acetylcysteine (NAC) as a quick fix for altitude sickness and a performance enhancer, and if so, what are the potential dangers?

NAC, a derivative of the amino acid L-cysteine, is touted for its antioxidant and mucolytic properties. It’s readily available over the counter, often marketed for liver support and respiratory health. But its use in sports, particularly among adolescents, raises serious concerns.

The allure of NAC stems from its potential to increase glutathione levels, a powerful antioxidant that can combat oxidative stress induced by intense exercise and altitude. Some believe this can lead to faster recovery and improved performance. However, the evidence supporting these claims, especially in young athletes at altitude, is far from conclusive.

Let’s be blunt: using NAC as a performance enhancer in adolescent athletes is a risky gamble. Their bodies are still developing, and the long-term effects of supplement use are largely unknown. We need to consider the unique physiological vulnerabilities of young athletes in Taos.

Here’s why this is a problem, broken down:

Lack of Regulation and Quality Control: The supplement industry is notoriously unregulated. What’s on the label may not be what’s in the bottle. This is especially concerning for NAC, where purity and dosage can vary wildly. Imagine a young athlete unknowingly consuming a contaminated product.
Potential Side Effects: While generally considered safe for short-term use in adults, NAC can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and even allergic reactions. The impact on developing bodies is less understood. We’re talking about potentially disrupting hormonal balance or interfering with normal growth processes.
Masking Underlying Health Issues: Altitude sickness can be a symptom of more serious conditions. Relying on NAC to mask these symptoms could delay proper diagnosis and treatment. A persistent headache at 8,000 feet might be more than just altitude sickness; it could be a sign of something far more serious.
Ethical Considerations: Encouraging young athletes to use supplements for performance enhancement sends the wrong message. It promotes a culture of “quick fixes” and undermines the importance of proper training, nutrition, and rest. We’re teaching them that shortcuts are acceptable, which is a terrible lesson.
Drug Interactions: NAC can interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and some antidepressants. Young athletes may not be aware of these potential interactions, especially if they’re not disclosing their supplement use to their doctors. This is a recipe for disaster.

So, what’s the alternative? How do we protect young athletes in Taos from the potential harms of inappropriate NAC use? The answer lies in education and evidence-based strategies.

Here’s a step-by-step approach to altitude acclimation that’s far safer and more effective than relying on supplements:

Gradual Ascent: This is the golden rule of altitude acclimation. Spend several days at a moderate altitude (e.g., 6,000-7,000 feet) before ascending to higher elevations. Taos Ski Valley sits at over 9,000 feet; a staged arrival is crucial.
Hydration: Dehydration exacerbates altitude sickness. Encourage athletes to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Avoid sugary drinks and excessive caffeine, which can have a diuretic effect.
Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in carbohydrates can help fuel the body at altitude. Avoid heavy, greasy foods that can be difficult to digest.
Rest and Recovery: Adequate sleep is essential for acclimation. Encourage athletes to get at least 8 hours of sleep per night. Avoid overtraining, especially during the initial days at altitude.
Listen to Your Body: Athletes should be encouraged to report any symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, fatigue, or shortness of breath. Don’t push through the pain; rest and descend if necessary.
Consider Acetazolamide (Diamox): In some cases, a doctor may prescribe acetazolamide, a medication that can help prevent and treat altitude sickness. However, this should only be used under medical supervision and is generally not recommended for routine use in young athletes.
Iron Levels: Ensure adequate iron intake. Iron deficiency can worsen the effects of altitude. Consider iron-rich foods or, if necessary, iron supplementation under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Now, let’s address the regulatory landscape in New Mexico. NAC is currently available over the counter, but its legal status has been debated due to its classification as a drug by the FDA in certain contexts. This ambiguity makes it even more crucial for parents and coaches to be informed and proactive.

Here’s what parents and coaches in Taos need to do:

Educate Yourselves: Learn about the risks and benefits of NAC and other supplements. Consult with a sports medicine physician or registered dietitian for evidence-based information.
Talk to Your Athletes: Have open and honest conversations about supplement use. Emphasize the importance of proper training, nutrition, and rest.
Set Clear Expectations: Establish a team policy that discourages the use of performance-enhancing supplements. Focus on creating a healthy and supportive environment where athletes feel comfortable discussing their concerns.
Be a Role Model: Lead by example. Demonstrate a commitment to healthy habits and ethical sportsmanship.
Know the Resources: Familiarize yourself with local and national resources for youth athlete health and supplement information. The New Mexico Department of Health and organizations like the National Center for Drug-Free Sport can provide valuable guidance.

The challenge isn’t just about preventing NAC use; it’s about fostering a culture of informed decision-making and prioritizing the long-term health and well-being of young athletes. We need to move beyond the allure of quick fixes and embrace a holistic approach to athletic development.

One common pitfall is the “everyone else is doing it” mentality. Athletes may feel pressured to use supplements if they believe their peers are gaining an advantage. Coaches and parents need to actively counter this narrative by emphasizing the risks and promoting a culture of integrity.

Another mistake is relying on anecdotal evidence or misinformation from unreliable sources. The internet is rife with misleading claims about supplements. It’s crucial to rely on credible sources and consult with qualified healthcare professionals.

The situation in Taos is a microcosm of a larger issue: the pressure to perform in youth sports. We need to shift the focus from winning at all costs to fostering a love of the game and promoting healthy habits that will last a lifetime.

Let’s be clear: there are no magic bullets when it comes to athletic performance. Hard work, dedication, and a commitment to healthy living are the keys to success. NAC and other supplements may offer a temporary boost, but they come with significant risks, especially for young athletes.

Instead of chasing fleeting advantages, let’s empower young athletes in Taos with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Let’s prioritize their long-term development over short-term gains. The future of these athletes, and the integrity of the sport, depends on it.