Taos Tea: Altitude Air Stealing Summer Livers?
By Franklin Everett ShawForget the green beer and the shamrocks. Let’s talk about something far more relevant to your daily life in Denver: how to enjoy your Taos Tea (yerba mate) without accidentally stressing your liver, especially given our unique high-altitude environment. Many of us in the Mile High City reach for that energizing brew, but are we considering the potential impact on our bodies?
Yerba mate, while generally safe, contains compounds that can, in excess, put a strain on the liver. This is compounded by the fact that Denver’s altitude affects how our bodies process substances. Let’s dive into how Denverites can enjoy Taos Tea responsibly, focusing on liver health.
First, let’s understand the potential risks. Yerba mate contains caffeine, which, in moderate amounts, is generally fine. However, excessive caffeine intake can lead to increased liver enzyme activity, indicating stress. More concerning are the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) found in yerba mate, particularly if it’s smoked or roasted. These PAHs are known carcinogens and can contribute to liver damage over time.
Now, let’s get practical. How do we minimize these risks while still enjoying our beloved Taos Tea?
Source Matters: Opt for organic, unsmoked yerba mate. Natural Grocers on South Colorado Boulevard and Whole Foods Market in Cherry Creek are excellent places to find high-quality, unsmoked varieties. Look for brands that specifically state “unsmoked” or “air-dried” on the packaging. This significantly reduces PAH exposure.
Moderation is Key: Limit your daily intake. One to two servings (8-16 ounces) of Taos Tea per day is generally considered safe for most adults. Pay attention to your body’s signals. If you experience symptoms like fatigue, nausea, or abdominal pain, reduce your consumption.
Hydration, Hydration, Hydration: Denver’s dry air and high altitude exacerbate dehydration. Dehydration puts extra stress on the liver, hindering its ability to detoxify. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water daily, especially when consuming Taos Tea. Carry a reusable water bottle and sip throughout the day. Consider adding electrolytes to your water, especially after exercising or spending time outdoors.
Support Your Liver with Food: Incorporate liver-supporting foods into your diet. Luckily, Denver offers a wealth of options.
Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and kale are readily available at any King Soopers or Safeway. These vegetables contain compounds that help the liver detoxify. Roast them with olive oil and garlic for a delicious and liver-friendly side dish.
Garlic and Onions: These pungent vegetables contain sulfur compounds that aid in liver detoxification. Add them liberally to your cooking.
Beets: Beets are a powerhouse for liver health. They contain betaine, which helps protect the liver from damage. You can find fresh beets at the Denver Central Market or the South Pearl Street Farmers Market (seasonal). Roast them, juice them, or add them to salads.
Leafy Greens: Spinach, arugula, and dandelion greens are packed with antioxidants and chlorophyll, which support liver function. Add them to smoothies, salads, or sauté them with garlic.
Healthy Fats: Olive oil, avocados, and nuts provide essential fatty acids that support liver health. Drizzle olive oil on your salads, add avocado to your toast, and snack on a handful of almonds or walnuts.
Altitude Considerations: Denver’s altitude (5,280 feet) presents unique challenges. At higher altitudes, our bodies work harder to oxygenate blood, which can increase oxidative stress. This can further burden the liver.
Acclimatize Gradually: If you’re new to Denver, give your body time to adjust to the altitude before increasing your Taos Tea consumption.
Increase Antioxidant Intake: Combat oxidative stress by consuming plenty of antioxidant-rich foods, such as berries, dark chocolate (in moderation), and green tea. You can find a wide variety of berries at the local farmers’ markets during the summer months.
Avoid Alcohol and Other Liver-Taxing Substances: Alcohol, processed foods, and certain medications can further stress the liver. Minimize your intake of these substances, especially when consuming Taos Tea.
Recognize the Signs of Liver Distress: Be aware of the symptoms of liver problems. These can include:
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain (especially in the upper right quadrant)
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Dark urine
- Pale stools
If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately. Don’t self-diagnose or attempt to treat liver problems on your own.
Consider Liver-Supporting Supplements (with caution): Some supplements may support liver health, but it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements, especially if you have pre-existing liver conditions. Milk thistle, dandelion root, and artichoke extract are often touted for their liver-protective properties. However, supplements are not a substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your doctor, including liver function tests, especially if you have risk factors for liver disease (e.g., excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, family history of liver disease). Early detection is key to preventing serious liver problems.
Listen to Your Body: This is the most important advice. Pay attention to how your body responds to Taos Tea. If you experience any adverse effects, reduce your consumption or discontinue use altogether. Everyone’s tolerance is different.
Let’s address some common mistakes Denver residents make when consuming Taos Tea:
Overconsumption: Many people underestimate the caffeine content of yerba mate and consume excessive amounts, leading to liver stress and other side effects.
Dehydration: Failing to drink enough water, especially at high altitude, exacerbates the potential negative effects of yerba mate on the liver.
Ignoring Symptoms: Dismissing early signs of liver distress, such as fatigue or nausea, can lead to more serious problems.
Relying on Supplements Alone: Thinking that supplements can compensate for an unhealthy diet and lifestyle is a common misconception. Supplements should be used as an adjunct to, not a replacement for, healthy habits.
Combining with Other Liver-Taxing Substances: Consuming Taos Tea in combination with alcohol, processed foods, or certain medications can significantly increase the risk of liver damage.
Enjoying Taos Tea in Denver doesn’t have to be a gamble with your liver health. By making informed choices about sourcing, moderation, hydration, diet, and altitude considerations, you can savor this energizing beverage responsibly and maintain a healthy liver. Remember, listen to your body, consult with healthcare professionals, and prioritize a healthy lifestyle. Now, go enjoy that mate, Denver, but do it wisely!