Taos Tap: Altitude Air Stealing Gummy Zinc?
By Franklin Everett ShawEver felt like you’re breathing through a straw after arriving in Taos, New Mexico? You’re not alone. But before you reach for that gummy zinc supplement promising to combat “altitude air stealing,” let’s pump the brakes and explore the real science behind altitude sickness and how to actually prevent it.
The “Taos Tap” conspiracy, as some call it, suggests that gummy zinc supplements sold in Taos magically alleviate altitude sickness. The claim is that these supplements somehow counteract the effects of thinner air. This is, to put it mildly, nonsense.
Let’s dissect this claim. Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), occurs because your body struggles to adapt to the lower oxygen levels at higher elevations. The air pressure is lower, meaning each breath contains fewer oxygen molecules. This leads to symptoms like headache, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness.
Zinc plays a vital role in various bodily functions, including immune function and wound healing. However, there’s zero scientific evidence to suggest that zinc supplementation directly improves oxygen uptake or acclimatization to high altitude. The idea that it can “combat altitude air stealing” is a complete fabrication.
So, why the persistent belief in Taos? It likely stems from a combination of factors: the placebo effect, clever marketing, and a misunderstanding of how altitude acclimatization works. People want a quick fix, and a tasty gummy seems far more appealing than the hard work of proper acclimatization.
Now, let’s get to the real solutions. Forget the gummy zinc and focus on these evidence-based strategies for preventing altitude sickness, applicable whether you’re hiking Wheeler Peak in New Mexico or skiing in Aspen, Colorado.
Gradual Ascent: This is the single most important factor. Don’t fly directly from sea level to a high-altitude destination and immediately start strenuous activity. If possible, spend a few days at an intermediate altitude (e.g., Denver, Colorado Springs) before heading to Taos (7,000 feet) or higher. For every 1,000 feet above 10,000 feet, spend an extra day acclimating.
Hydration: Dehydration exacerbates altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your arrival. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, as they can contribute to dehydration. Aim for pale yellow urine.
Avoid Strenuous Activity Initially: Take it easy for the first 24-48 hours. Light walks are fine, but avoid intense hiking or skiing until your body has adjusted.
Eat a High-Carbohydrate Diet: Your body uses oxygen more efficiently when metabolizing carbohydrates. Focus on complex carbohydrates like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Consider Acetazolamide (Diamox): This prescription medication can help your body acclimatize faster by increasing the rate of respiration and helping to balance your body’s pH. Consult your doctor before taking Diamox, as it has potential side effects. It’s crucial to start taking it a day or two before you ascend.
Recognize the Symptoms: Be aware of the early signs of altitude sickness: headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and loss of appetite. If you experience these symptoms, descend immediately. Don’t try to “tough it out.”
Descend, Descend, Descend: If symptoms worsen despite rest and hydration, the only effective treatment is to descend to a lower altitude. Even a descent of a few hundred feet can make a significant difference.
A common pitfall is pushing yourself too hard, too soon. Many visitors to places like Telluride, Colorado (8,750 feet) arrive eager to hit the slopes or trails, ignoring the need for acclimatization. This often leads to a miserable experience and potentially serious health consequences.
Another mistake is confusing altitude sickness with dehydration or exhaustion. While these conditions can mimic AMS, they require different treatments. If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and descend.
Let’s consider a real-world scenario. Imagine you’re planning a hiking trip to Breckenridge, Colorado (9,600 feet). Instead of flying directly into Denver and driving straight to Breckenridge, spend a night or two in Denver (5,280 feet). During your time in Denver, stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity, and eat a balanced diet. When you arrive in Breckenridge, take it easy for the first day, perhaps going for a short, gentle walk. If you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, descend to a lower elevation until you feel better.
The key takeaway is that altitude sickness is a real physiological response to lower oxygen levels. There’s no magic bullet, no gummy zinc savior. The only proven methods for prevention and treatment are gradual ascent, proper hydration, rest, and, if necessary, descent.
Don’t let misinformation ruin your trip to Taos, Santa Fe, or any other high-altitude destination. Arm yourself with knowledge, prioritize acclimatization, and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the mountains safely and responsibly. Remember, your health is more important than conquering that peak on day one.