Taos Saunas: Altitude Lies Stealing Senior Livers?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 3, 2026

The crisp mountain air bites at your cheeks, a stark contrast to the sweltering heat radiating from the small, wooden structure nestled against the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. You’re in Taos, New Mexico, a town known for its art, its spiritual energy, and its altitude – a lung-searing 7,000 feet above sea level. But today, you’re contemplating something else: a high-altitude sauna. Is it a path to detoxification and well-being, or a potential health hazard, especially for seniors? The answer, as with most things in life, is nuanced.

Saunas, traditionally used for relaxation and purported detoxification, are gaining popularity even in high-altitude locations like Taos. But the thin air and the physiological changes it induces demand a cautious approach, particularly for older adults. The question isn’t whether seniors in Taos can use saunas, but how they can do so safely and effectively, minimizing potential risks to their liver and overall health.

The allure of a sauna is understandable. The dry heat promotes sweating, which many believe helps eliminate toxins. However, the liver, not sweat, is the primary organ responsible for detoxification. The liver processes toxins, breaking them down into less harmful substances that can be eliminated through urine and feces.

At high altitude, the liver faces unique challenges. Lower oxygen levels (hypoxia) can impair liver function. The liver requires oxygen to perform its metabolic processes, including detoxification. Reduced oxygen availability can lead to oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially damaging liver cells. This is especially concerning for seniors, whose liver function may already be compromised due to age or pre-existing conditions.

Furthermore, high altitude can increase red blood cell production to compensate for the lower oxygen levels. This process, called erythropoiesis, can increase blood viscosity, making it harder for the liver to filter blood effectively. Dehydration, a common side effect of both high altitude and sauna use, further exacerbates this issue.

So, what are the specific risks of sauna use for seniors in Taos?

• Increased Liver Stress: The combination of hypoxia, dehydration, and the metabolic demands of heat exposure can place significant stress on the liver. This can be particularly problematic for individuals with pre-existing liver conditions like fatty liver disease or hepatitis.
• Cardiovascular Strain: Saunas increase heart rate and blood pressure. At high altitude, where the cardiovascular system is already working harder to deliver oxygen, this added strain can be dangerous, especially for individuals with heart conditions.
• Dehydration: High altitude increases fluid loss through respiration. Saunas further exacerbate dehydration through sweating. Dehydration can impair liver function, reduce blood volume, and increase the risk of blood clots.
• Electrolyte Imbalance: Sweating leads to the loss of electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Electrolyte imbalances can cause muscle cramps, fatigue, and even cardiac arrhythmias.

Given these risks, what precautions should seniors in Taos take when considering sauna use?

1. Consult Your Doctor: This is paramount. Discuss your medical history, current medications, and any pre-existing conditions with your physician. They can assess your individual risk factors and provide personalized recommendations.
2. Hydrate Adequately: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after sauna use. Consider adding electrolytes to your water to replenish those lost through sweat. Avoid sugary drinks, which can worsen dehydration.
3. Limit Sauna Time: Start with short sessions (5-10 minutes) and gradually increase the duration as tolerated. Pay attention to your body and exit the sauna immediately if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or nauseous.
4. Lower the Temperature: Opt for lower sauna temperatures (150-175°F) to minimize cardiovascular strain and dehydration.
5. Avoid Alcohol and Medications: Alcohol and certain medications can impair liver function and increase the risk of dehydration. Avoid them before and after sauna use.
6. Listen to Your Body: Pay close attention to your body’s signals. If you experience any discomfort, dizziness, or lightheadedness, exit the sauna immediately.
7. Consider Alternatives: Explore alternative detoxification methods that are better suited for high-altitude living.

What are some safer alternatives to saunas for seniors in Taos seeking detoxification?

• Hydration: Simply drinking enough water is crucial for supporting liver function and flushing out toxins. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day.
• Diet: A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber can support liver function and promote detoxification. Focus on foods that are naturally detoxifying, such as leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, kale), and berries.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity can improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and support liver function. Choose low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or yoga.
• Herbal Support: Certain herbs, such as milk thistle and dandelion root, have been traditionally used to support liver function. However, consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using herbal supplements, as they can interact with medications.
• Deep Breathing Exercises: Deep breathing exercises can improve oxygenation and reduce stress, both of which are beneficial for liver function. Practice diaphragmatic breathing for 10-15 minutes per day.

The key takeaway is that sauna use at high altitude, particularly for seniors, requires careful consideration and a personalized approach. While saunas may offer some potential benefits, the risks to liver health and cardiovascular function should not be ignored. By consulting with a doctor, taking appropriate precautions, and exploring safer alternatives, seniors in Taos can prioritize their well-being and enjoy the benefits of high-altitude living without compromising their health. Remember, the goal is to support your body’s natural detoxification processes, not to overwhelm them.