Taos Tap: Altitude Lies Crashing Liver Lasers?
By Franklin Everett ShawForget the Instagram influencers promising instant altitude fixes. Living in Taos, New Mexico, isn’t about quick hacks; it’s about respecting the mountain. We’re talking about the “Taos Tap” – a trendy, yet questionable, combination of liver support supplements and at-home laser therapy marketed as an altitude acclimatization shortcut. Let’s dissect this trend and see if it holds water, or if it’s just another way to separate Taoseños from their hard-earned dollars.
The “Taos Tap” typically involves two components: liver support supplements, often containing ingredients like milk thistle or artichoke extract, and the use of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) devices, often marketed for pain relief and cellular regeneration. The claim? That these two things, when combined, somehow enhance the body’s ability to adapt to the lower oxygen levels at Taos’s 7,000+ foot elevation.
Let’s start with the liver. The idea behind liver support supplements is that a “detoxified” liver functions more efficiently, supposedly improving oxygen uptake and utilization. This is where the science gets murky. The liver is a vital organ responsible for filtering toxins, but the concept of “detoxifying” it with supplements is largely unsupported by scientific evidence. A healthy liver already does an excellent job of detoxifying the body. Overloading it with supplements, especially without consulting a healthcare professional, can actually be detrimental.
Consider this: many liver support supplements contain ingredients that can interact with medications or have side effects, especially in individuals with pre-existing liver conditions. For example, milk thistle can interfere with certain medications metabolized by the liver, potentially altering their effectiveness. Artichoke extract, while generally safe, can cause digestive upset in some individuals.
Now, let’s move on to the laser therapy. LLLT, also known as cold laser therapy, involves exposing the body to low levels of red or near-infrared light. Proponents claim it can stimulate cellular activity, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. While LLLT has shown some promise in treating certain conditions like musculoskeletal pain, its effectiveness for altitude acclimatization is highly speculative.
The biggest challenge with at-home LLLT devices is the lack of regulation and standardization. The power output, wavelength, and treatment protocols can vary widely between devices, making it difficult to determine their safety and efficacy. Using a device improperly, or for too long, could potentially lead to skin irritation or other adverse effects.
So, what’s the real deal for Taoseños struggling with altitude? The answer is simple: evidence-based acclimatization strategies. Forget the quick fixes and focus on proven methods.
Here’s a practical, safer, and more effective approach to altitude acclimatization, tailored for the unique challenges of living in Taos:
Gradual Ascent: If you’re new to Taos, avoid strenuous activity for the first few days. Give your body time to adjust to the altitude. This is especially important if you’re coming from a lower elevation.
Hydration is Key: Drink plenty of water. Altitude can increase fluid loss, leading to dehydration, which can worsen altitude sickness symptoms. Carry a reusable water bottle and sip on it throughout the day.
Avoid Alcohol and Sedatives: These substances can interfere with your body’s ability to acclimatize and may mask the symptoms of altitude sickness. Limit your alcohol intake, especially during the first few days at altitude.
Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on complex carbohydrates and avoid heavy, fatty meals. Carbohydrates are your body’s primary source of energy at altitude.
Iron-Rich Foods: Ensure adequate iron intake. Iron is essential for oxygen transport in the blood. Consider incorporating iron-rich foods like spinach, lentils, and red meat into your diet.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, fatigue, or shortness of breath. If you experience these symptoms, rest and descend to a lower altitude if possible.
Consider Intermittent Hypoxic Training (IHT): This involves breathing air with reduced oxygen levels for short periods, followed by periods of normal breathing. IHT can stimulate the body’s natural acclimatization processes. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting IHT, as it may not be suitable for everyone.
Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you have any underlying health conditions or are concerned about altitude sickness, talk to your doctor. They can provide personalized advice and recommend appropriate medications if necessary.
A common mistake developers make when addressing altitude acclimatization is focusing solely on oxygen levels. While oxygen is crucial, other factors like humidity, temperature, and solar radiation also play a role. Taos, with its dry climate and intense sun, presents unique challenges.
Another pitfall is relying on anecdotal evidence or unproven remedies. Just because something worked for one person doesn’t mean it will work for everyone. Stick to evidence-based strategies and consult with healthcare professionals.
Living in Taos is a privilege, but it requires respecting the altitude. Forget the “Taos Tap” and embrace proven acclimatization methods. Your body will thank you. Remember, slow and steady wins the race, especially when it comes to adapting to the high-altitude environment of northern New Mexico.