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Writer's picturePawan Sohi

5 Natural Food remedies For Altitude Acclimatization

Updated: Jul 26, 2024

Embrace the revitalizing power of nature with mountain-friendly foods for altitude


Natural remedies for high altitude
Mountain kitchen

For many first-time or experienced climbers at high altitudes, medications such as Diamox are often the preferred choice. While these are generally very effective, there may be reasons why you might want to consider trying additional natural remedies. One common issue reported is the need to wake up at night to use the restroom, which can lead to sleepless nights, especially at high altitudes when sleep is already compromised. Additionally, some individuals may be allergic to Diamox. Of course, the best remedy for altitude sickness is to descend and pay attention to your body's signals. It is always recommended to consult with your physician on the best course for your medical conditions. Natural foods can be good remedies for altitude acclimatization.


Here are 5 Natural Food Remedies for Altitude Acclimatization:

Beet Roots - When at high altitudes, the body receives less oxygen, making it beneficial to find ways to increase oxygen delivery. This is where the vibrant root vegetable, beets, becomes valuable. Beets are rich in nitrates, which the body changes into nitric oxide (NO). Nitric oxide helps to relax blood vessels, facilitating better functioning in low-oxygen environments. You can start preparing yourself by taken beetroot juice few months in advance and carry powered form for your days in high altitude


Beetroot juice for high altitude
Beetroot

Garlic - Another powerful food, pungent to some but very useful in improving blood circulation as it acts as a vasodilator. Throughout the mountains region you will find people consuming garlic in different forms - soups, in vegetables, dips and pickle. If you do not like the taste you can also consume garlic capsules to ensure altitude sickness is kept at a distance


Garlic prevents mountain sickness
Garlic

Ginkgo Biloba - A tree whose leaves are utilized to enhance circulation and brain health in low-oxygen environments. Ginkgo Biloba has been found to alleviate common symptoms of altitude sickness, such as dizziness, nausea, and headaches, according to certain studies.


Ginkgo for high altitude
Ginkgo Biloba

Coca Leaves - The coca leaf has been chewed and brewed for tea traditionally for centuries among indigenous peoples in the Andean region to control altitude sickness and it works. However coca leaves is harmless in this form but there is no doubt that the same leaves are used to derive cocaine. which of course is dangerous.


Coca Leaves tea
Coca Leaves

Green Leafy vegetables - Sufficient iron is essential for your blood to carry oxygen efficiently to all parts of your body. Enhanced oxygen supply is crucial for adjusting to high altitudes. Spinach, kale, mustard leaves are great sources to include in your diet month prior and during the high altitude adventure


Green leaft vegetables for mountain sickness
Green leafy vegetables




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