Category: High altitude

A study on simulated Everest ascents found climbers had a significant involuntary weight loss of up to 5 kg, despite ample food. So, do you need to eat more at higher altitude? The answer is nuanced, involving altered metabolism, reduced appetite, and increased energy expenditure.

Studies show that your body's energy expenditure can increase significantly at high altitudes, sometimes requiring thousands of extra calories per day. Given this increased metabolic demand, the question naturally arises: should I eat more at altitude? The answer is a definitive yes, though the reality is often complicated by a simultaneous decrease in appetite and other physical challenges.

At 5,000 feet, water boils at 202°F instead of 212°F, profoundly changing what happens to food at high altitude during preparation. This fundamental difference in atmospheric pressure affects everything from the cooking time for pasta to the rise of a cake, requiring specific adjustments for culinary success.

Studies show that at high altitude, the body's reliance on carbohydrates for fuel significantly increases, primarily because carbohydrate metabolism is more oxygen-efficient than fat or protein metabolism. This makes a high-carbohydrate diet a crucial component for anyone traveling to elevated areas, from trekkers to mountain athletes.