## Taos Livers: Altitude Air Crashing Milk Thistle?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 9, 2026

The thin air of Taos, New Mexico, isn’t just about breathtaking views and a vibrant art scene. It’s a physiological reality that can subtly, yet significantly, impact your body, especially your liver. Many newcomers and even long-time residents often overlook this crucial aspect of high-altitude living.

Living in Taos, at an elevation of nearly 7,000 feet, presents unique challenges. The reduced oxygen levels force your body to work harder. This increased workload can affect various organ systems, including the liver.

Let’s delve into how altitude affects liver function and explore the potential role of milk thistle in mitigating these effects, specifically tailored for the Taos environment.

The primary challenge at high altitude is hypoxia, or oxygen deficiency. Your body responds by:

Increasing red blood cell production to carry more oxygen.
Elevating heart rate and breathing rate to circulate blood faster.
Shunting blood flow to vital organs like the brain and heart.

This increased workload places stress on the liver. The liver is responsible for filtering toxins, processing nutrients, and producing essential proteins. Hypoxia can impair these functions.

Specifically, altitude can lead to:

Increased oxidative stress: The body produces more free radicals in response to hypoxia, potentially damaging liver cells.
Impaired liver metabolism: The liver’s ability to process drugs, alcohol, and other substances may be reduced.
Increased risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): Studies suggest a link between chronic hypoxia and NAFLD.

These effects are often subtle and may not be immediately noticeable. However, over time, they can contribute to liver dysfunction.

Milk thistle, scientifically known as Silybum marianum, is a plant with a long history of use in traditional medicine, primarily for liver disorders. Its active compound, silymarin, is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.

Silymarin is believed to:

Protect liver cells from damage: It acts as a free radical scavenger, reducing oxidative stress.
Promote liver cell regeneration: It stimulates protein synthesis, aiding in the repair of damaged liver tissue.
Reduce inflammation: It inhibits the production of inflammatory compounds in the liver.

While research on milk thistle is ongoing, several studies suggest its potential benefits for various liver conditions, including NAFLD, hepatitis, and cirrhosis. However, it’s crucial to note that milk thistle is not a cure-all and should be used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatments and lifestyle modifications.

Now, let’s address the crucial question: can milk thistle help mitigate the effects of high altitude on liver function in Taos?

Theoretically, yes. By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, milk thistle could potentially protect the liver from the added strain of hypoxia. However, there’s limited research specifically on milk thistle’s effects in high-altitude environments.

Therefore, it’s essential to approach milk thistle supplementation with caution and consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have pre-existing liver conditions or are taking other medications.

If you’re considering milk thistle in Taos, here’s a practical guide:

Consult with a healthcare provider: Discuss your individual health status and potential risks and benefits. A doctor familiar with altitude sickness is ideal.
Choose a high-quality product: Look for standardized extracts containing at least 70-80% silymarin.
Start with a low dose: Begin with the lowest recommended dose and gradually increase it as tolerated.
Monitor for side effects: Common side effects include mild gastrointestinal upset. Discontinue use if you experience any adverse reactions.

Finding quality milk thistle in Taos can be a challenge. Here are some options:

Local health food stores: Check stores like Cid’s Food Market or Taos Herb Company. Inquire about the source and quality of their milk thistle products.
Pharmacies: Some pharmacies may carry milk thistle supplements.
Online retailers: Reputable online retailers like Amazon or iHerb offer a wide selection of milk thistle products. Ensure the product is third-party tested for purity and potency. Look for brands like Thorne Research or Gaia Herbs.

When purchasing online, be wary of products with unsubstantiated claims or suspiciously low prices. Counterfeit supplements are a real concern.

Dosage recommendations for milk thistle vary depending on the product and individual needs. A typical dose is 200-400 mg of silymarin per day, divided into two or three doses.

It’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consult with your healthcare provider for personalized dosage recommendations.

Milk thistle is generally considered safe, but it can interact with certain medications, including:

Antidiabetic drugs
Anticoagulants
Some chemotherapy drugs

Always inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you’re taking.

Beyond milk thistle, several lifestyle factors can support liver health in Taos:

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your liver flush out toxins.
Limit alcohol consumption: Alcohol places a significant burden on the liver.
Eat a healthy diet: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods, including fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.
Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks: These can contribute to NAFLD.
Exercise regularly: Physical activity helps improve liver function and reduce inflammation.
Consider intermittent fasting: Some studies suggest that intermittent fasting can improve liver health.

Living in Taos offers a unique lifestyle, but it also requires awareness of the potential health challenges posed by high altitude. While milk thistle may offer some benefits for liver health, it’s not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle and regular medical care.

Don’t fall into the trap of thinking a supplement is a magic bullet. It’s a tool, not a solution.

Common mistakes developers make when addressing altitude-related health concerns include:

Ignoring the issue: Assuming that altitude sickness only affects newcomers.
Self-treating without consulting a doctor: Relying on anecdotal evidence or online information.
Using low-quality supplements: Choosing products based on price rather than quality.
Neglecting lifestyle modifications: Relying solely on supplements without addressing underlying lifestyle factors.

To overcome these challenges:

Educate yourself about the effects of high altitude.
Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Prioritize a healthy lifestyle.
Choose high-quality supplements from reputable sources.
Monitor your health and seek medical attention if you experience any concerning symptoms.

Remember, living in Taos is a privilege. Taking proactive steps to protect your liver health will allow you to fully enjoy the beauty and vibrancy of this unique community for years to come. Don’t let the altitude be a silent threat.