Tag: Altitude sickness prevention

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 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.

At high altitudes like Colorado Springs, the body loses water through respiration twice as fast as at sea level. This means that standard hydration advice simply isn't enough to prevent dehydration and ward off altitude sickness for residents and visitors alike. Understanding your body's increased needs is crucial for a healthy and safe experience in the Pikes Peak region.

Studies indicate that dehydration at high altitude can occur 20% faster than at sea level, primarily due to increased respiration and dry air. Finding the best electrolyte drink for altitude sickness is therefore crucial for staying properly hydrated and mitigating symptoms.

Historically, K2 has been one of the deadliest mountains, with reports citing a fatality rate above 20% before 2021. For serious climbers, the answer to **what percentage of people survive K2?** depends as much on physical preparation and skill as it does on a meticulously planned nutrition diet capable of countering the punishing effects of extreme altitude.

Over 20% of visitors to high-altitude destinations experience some form of acute mountain sickness. Knowing what should you eat at high altitude is a key strategy for mitigating the risk of altitude sickness by providing your body with the right fuel and hydration to acclimatize effectively.