**Taos Spas: Altitude Air Stealing Liver Lipids?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

October 30, 2025

The crisp mountain air bites at your cheeks, a stark contrast to the sun’s warmth beating down. You’ve arrived in Taos, New Mexico, a land of ancient pueblos, vibrant art, and breathtaking vistas. But beneath the surface of this enchanting destination lies a hidden challenge: the altitude. At nearly 7,000 feet, Taos’s thin air can significantly impact your body, especially your liver and its ability to process fats. This isn’t just about feeling a little winded; it’s about understanding how your body adapts and how you can proactively support its function while enjoying your Taos adventure.

The high altitude in Taos presents a unique metabolic stressor. Lower oxygen levels (hypoxia) trigger a cascade of physiological responses, including increased red blood cell production and altered lipid metabolism. This shift can lead to increased oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially contributing to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), even in otherwise healthy individuals. Think of it as your liver working overtime, struggling to keep up with the demands of a less-than-ideal oxygen environment.

So, how do you navigate this high-altitude hurdle and keep your liver happy in Taos? It’s all about strategic biohacking, dietary adjustments, and leveraging the local resources.

First, let’s talk biohacking. Acclimatization is key. Don’t jump into a strenuous hike on your first day. Instead, spend the first 24-48 hours taking it easy, allowing your body to adjust to the lower oxygen levels. Consider supplemental oxygen, readily available at many pharmacies in Taos, especially if you have pre-existing respiratory conditions. Intermittent hypoxic training (IHT), where you alternate between periods of low and normal oxygen levels, can also be beneficial, but consult with a healthcare professional before starting.

Diet plays a crucial role in supporting liver function at high altitude. Focus on foods rich in antioxidants to combat oxidative stress. Berries, leafy greens, and colorful vegetables should be staples in your Taos diet. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can further burden your liver. Consider incorporating liver-supportive foods like artichokes, beets, and garlic into your meals.

Specific dietary adjustments for Taos should include:

• Increased hydration: The dry air at high altitude can lead to dehydration, which can further stress the liver. Aim for at least 3 liters of water per day. Add electrolytes to your water to replenish those lost through increased respiration.
• Healthy fats: Prioritize healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and olive oil. These fats are easier for the liver to process than saturated and trans fats.
• Lean protein: Choose lean protein sources like fish, chicken, and beans. Avoid excessive red meat, which can be harder to digest.
• Limit fructose: High fructose corn syrup, found in many processed foods and sugary drinks, is particularly detrimental to liver health. Be mindful of your fructose intake.

Now, let’s explore the spa scene in Taos and how you can leverage it for liver support. Taos boasts several spas that offer treatments designed to promote detoxification and reduce inflammation.

Here’s a “how-to” guide to navigating Taos spas for liver support:

1. Research and select a spa: Look for spas that offer detoxification treatments, such as lymphatic drainage massage, infrared sauna therapy, and body wraps. The El Monte Sagrado Living Resort and Spa and the Taos Spa and Tennis Club are good starting points.
2. Consult with a therapist: Before your treatment, discuss your concerns about altitude and liver health with the therapist. They can tailor the treatment to your specific needs.
3. Lymphatic drainage massage: This gentle massage technique helps to stimulate the lymphatic system, which plays a crucial role in removing toxins from the body. It can help reduce inflammation and improve liver function.
4. Infrared sauna therapy: Infrared saunas use infrared light to heat the body directly, promoting sweating and detoxification. This can help eliminate toxins that may be burdening the liver.
5. Body wraps: Certain body wraps, such as those containing seaweed or clay, can help draw out toxins from the skin and improve circulation.
6. Consider herbal remedies: Some spas offer herbal remedies that support liver function, such as milk thistle and dandelion root. Consult with a qualified herbalist before taking any herbal supplements.
7. Post-treatment care: After your spa treatment, drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins. Avoid alcohol and processed foods for at least 24 hours.

A common pitfall developers face when building applications for high-altitude environments is neglecting to account for the potential impact on user experience. Similarly, visitors to Taos often underestimate the impact of altitude on their bodies. They might push themselves too hard too soon, leading to altitude sickness and other health problems.

To overcome this, educate yourself about the effects of altitude and take proactive steps to mitigate them. Listen to your body and don’t be afraid to rest when you need to.

Another challenge is the tendency to rely on quick fixes, such as energy drinks and sugary snacks, to combat fatigue. These can provide a temporary boost, but they ultimately worsen liver health. Instead, focus on sustainable strategies like proper hydration, a healthy diet, and adequate rest.

Here’s a real-world scenario: Imagine you’re visiting Taos for a week-long ski trip. You arrive excited and eager to hit the slopes, but you quickly find yourself feeling fatigued and nauseous. You might attribute this to jet lag or a lack of sleep, but it could be a sign of altitude sickness and liver stress.

To address this, you could:

• Reduce your skiing intensity for the first few days.
• Increase your water intake and add electrolytes.
• Incorporate liver-supportive foods into your meals, such as a salad with beets and artichokes.
• Book a lymphatic drainage massage at a local spa.

By taking these steps, you can help your body adapt to the altitude and enjoy your ski trip without compromising your liver health.

Remember, visiting Taos is an opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of New Mexico. By understanding the impact of altitude on your liver and taking proactive steps to support its function, you can ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip. Don’t let the altitude hold you back; embrace the challenge and discover the magic of Taos.