Taos Tap: Altitude Lies Crashing Baby Enzymes?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

May 26, 2026

The crisp mountain air bites at your cheeks, a stark contrast to the sun beating down. You’ve just moved to Taos, New Mexico, a land of stunning beauty and challenging altitude. While you’re excited to explore the trails and soak in the culture, a nagging worry persists: how will this drastic change affect your infant or toddler? The “Taos Tap,” a local term for pushing oneself in high-altitude running, might be great for seasoned athletes, but could it inadvertently harm your little one’s developing physiology?

The allure of Taos is undeniable. But the altitude, typically around 7,000 feet, presents a significant physiological stressor. This stress can manifest in various ways, particularly in infants and toddlers whose bodies are still developing. One area of concern is enzyme function. Enzymes are crucial for countless bodily processes, from digestion to energy production. High altitude can disrupt these processes, potentially leading to health issues.

Infants and toddlers are particularly vulnerable to altitude-related problems. Their respiratory systems are still maturing, making them more susceptible to altitude sickness. They also have a higher metabolic rate and oxygen demand relative to their size, increasing the strain on their bodies at altitude. Common issues include:

Altitude sickness: Symptoms can be subtle in infants, such as fussiness, poor feeding, and difficulty sleeping. Toddlers may experience headaches, nausea, and vomiting.
Dehydration: The dry air at high altitude can lead to rapid fluid loss. Infants and toddlers are more prone to dehydration due to their smaller body size and higher fluid turnover.
Respiratory problems: High altitude can exacerbate existing respiratory conditions like asthma or bronchiolitis. The lower oxygen levels can also trigger respiratory distress in susceptible individuals.
Sleep disturbances: The reduced oxygen saturation at night can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to irritability and fatigue.

The “Taos Tap” mentality, while encouraging for adult athletes, can be detrimental to infants and toddlers. It often involves pushing oneself to the limit, ignoring early warning signs of altitude sickness. This approach is simply not appropriate for young children who cannot communicate their discomfort effectively.

So, what can parents do to support their child’s acclimatization in Taos? Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Slow and Steady Wins the Race: Avoid rushing into strenuous activities immediately upon arrival. Allow your child’s body time to adjust to the altitude gradually. For the first few days, focus on light activities and plenty of rest.
Hydration is Key: Offer frequent sips of water or breast milk/formula. Monitor your child’s urine output to ensure they are adequately hydrated. Look for signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, decreased urination, and sunken eyes.
Monitor for Symptoms: Be vigilant for signs of altitude sickness, such as fussiness, poor feeding, vomiting, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Adjust Feeding Schedules: Infants may need to feed more frequently at high altitude due to increased energy expenditure. Toddlers may experience a decreased appetite initially, so offer smaller, more frequent meals.
Consider Iron Supplementation: High altitude can increase the risk of iron deficiency. Talk to your pediatrician about whether iron supplementation is appropriate for your child.
Humidify the Air: Use a humidifier in your child’s room to combat the dry air and prevent respiratory problems. Clean the humidifier regularly to prevent mold growth.
Dress in Layers: The temperature in Taos can fluctuate dramatically throughout the day. Dress your child in layers so you can easily adjust their clothing to keep them comfortable.
Limit Sun Exposure: The sun’s rays are more intense at high altitude. Protect your child’s skin with sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
Consult with a Pediatrician: Before moving to Taos, schedule a visit with your pediatrician to discuss any potential health concerns and develop a plan for acclimatization. Find a pediatrician in Taos who is experienced in treating children at high altitude.
Be Patient: Acclimatization takes time. It may take several weeks or even months for your child to fully adjust to the altitude. Be patient and understanding, and don’t push them too hard.

One common mistake parents make is assuming that their child is “just being fussy” when they are actually experiencing altitude sickness. It’s crucial to differentiate between normal infant behavior and symptoms of altitude sickness. Another pitfall is overexertion. Avoid taking your child on strenuous hikes or activities until they have fully acclimatized.

Consider the case of the Miller family, who moved to Taos from sea level with their 18-month-old daughter, Lily. Initially, they were eager to explore the hiking trails. However, they quickly realized that Lily was struggling with the altitude. She became irritable, refused to eat, and had difficulty sleeping. After consulting with a pediatrician, they slowed down their pace, focused on hydration, and allowed Lily more time to rest. Within a few weeks, Lily had fully acclimatized and was able to enjoy the outdoors with her family.

Another example is the Johnson family, who moved to Taos with their 6-month-old son, Ethan. Ethan had a history of respiratory problems, which were exacerbated by the high altitude. The Johnsons worked closely with a pulmonologist to manage Ethan’s condition and ensure he received the necessary respiratory support. They also used a humidifier in his room and avoided exposing him to smoke or other irritants.

Moving to Taos with an infant or toddler requires careful planning and preparation. While the “Taos Tap” might be a popular approach for adult athletes, it’s essential to prioritize your child’s health and well-being. By following these guidelines and working closely with your pediatrician, you can help your child acclimatize safely and enjoy all that Taos has to offer. Remember, a slow and steady approach, combined with careful monitoring and proactive care, is the key to ensuring your little one thrives in the high-altitude environment of Taos.