Are you dreaming of hiking through the majestic Rockies or tackling the iconic Everest Base Camp trek? While these adventures promise unforgettable views and incredible experiences, they can also come with a hidden challenge: altitude sickness. This sneaky condition, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), can strike without warning, leaving you battling headaches, nausea, dizziness, extreme fatigue, and in severe cases, even life-threatening complications. But don’t let AMS derail your plans—by taking simple precautions, you can stay safe and fully enjoy your time in the mountains.
Treating altitude sickness involves highlighting various medications and natural remedies. Altitude sickness occurs when your body struggles to adjust to high elevations with lower oxygen levels. The higher you go, the thinner the air, which places extra pressure on your lungs and circulatory system to deliver oxygen to your body. Factors like how fast you ascend, your level of hydration, and individual susceptibility all play a role in whether or not AMS develops. Knowing the symptoms and how to respond is critical, but prevention is even better. And this is where supplements can be a game-changer.
The right supplements can help your body adapt more easily to high altitudes, reduce the risk of AMS, and keep you feeling strong as you climb higher. From natural remedies like oxygen to trusted medicinal options like Ibuprofen, these supplements and medicines can improve blood flow, oxygen efficiency, and energy levels. Let’s learn about the causes of altitude sickness, how to prepare your body for the challenge, and the six best supplements to have on hand for your next high-altitude adventure. Don’t let altitude sickness hold you back—get ready to conquer those summits!
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a condition that occurs when your body struggles to adapt to the lower oxygen levels found at high altitudes. As you ascend to higher elevations, the air pressure decreases, making it harder for your body to obtain the oxygen it needs. This can lead to a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe health issues. Common symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and extreme fatigue. These symptoms can significantly impact your ability to enjoy your high-altitude adventure, making it essential to understand and address this condition.
Altitude sickness can manifest in several forms, each varying in severity:
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS): This is the most common type of altitude sickness and typically occurs at elevations above 8,000 feet. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue, resembling a severe hangover.
High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE): A more serious condition, HAPE occurs when fluid accumulates in the lungs, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest tightness, and a persistent cough. Medical attention is needed immediately, if left untreated, HAPE can be life-threatening.
High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE): The most severe form of altitude sickness, HACE involves fluid buildup in the brain, causing symptoms like severe headaches, confusion, loss of coordination, and even coma. Immediate medical attention is crucial for anyone experiencing HACE.
Understanding these types of altitude sickness and their symptoms can help you take the necessary precautions to stay safe and healthy during your high-altitude adventures.
For those who don’t know what altitude sickness is, it’s also known as hypoxia, and caused by lower oxygen levels or lack of oxygen at high elevation. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is the most common form of altitude sickness and the symptoms are similar to a hangover without the fun night out.
This occurs when you travel to high altitudes for extended periods of time. Most commonly, people experience this when they go above 8000 feet, but sometimes can experience very mild symptoms when flying in an airplane. Chronic mountain sickness is a progressive condition resulting from long-term exposure to hypoxia, with potential complications that can worse.
While symptoms can range from mild to severe, one of the best ways to combat altitude sickness is preparation—and that starts with choosing the right supplements.
Preventing altitude sickness is key to enjoying your travels to higher elevations without the discomfort and risks associated with this condition. Here are some effective strategies to help you stay healthy and acclimated:
Gradual Ascent: One of the most effective ways to prevent altitude sickness is to ascend gradually. Give your body time to adjust to the change in altitude by spending a few days at intermediate elevations before heading to higher altitudes.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is crucial for staying hydrated and helping your body adapt to high altitudes. Dehydration can exacerbate symptoms of altitude sickness, so make sure to drink water regularly and avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine.
Avoid Overexertion: Physical stress can increase the risk of altitude sickness, especially in the first few days at high altitude. Take it easy, avoid strenuous activities, and allow your body to acclimate gradually.
Take Vitamins: Vitamins such as vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Glutathione can fight oxidative stress that comes from high altitudes. Vitamin C can support your immune system, while Glutathione and Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, protecting your cells from oxidative stress.
Use Natural Remedies: Natural remedies like ginkgo biloba can improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of altitude sickness by enhancing blood flow and oxygen utilization. Also according to research, ginger contains bioactive compounds like gingerol, which work to calm the digestive system and reduce feelings of queasiness that commonly accompany altitude sickness.
Dietary Supplements: Consider taking dietary supplements such as iron, which can boost red blood cell production and improve oxygen delivery to your tissues, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
By incorporating these strategies into your preparation, you can significantly reduce the risk of altitude sickness and enjoy your high-altitude adventures with greater comfort and confidence.
Let’s dive into how to avoid altitude sickness with high altitude pills and supplements. Maca, a Peruvian plant, is known as a dietary supplement that improves mood and energy levels in high-altitude individuals.
In order to prevent altitude sickness symptoms, we have listed some supplements for altitude sickness — including canned oxygen for altitude and altitude adjustment pills — that will help you stay on top of your game! In this article, we take a look at the best supplements for altitude sickness.
Our Zaca chewable hydration packets first gained popularity in Colorado for its many altitude usages. The most natural and effective option – ingredients in Zaca help you rehydrate, replenish, and recover for high altitude adventures by supporting oxidative stress with antioxidants.
According to Forbes, “Zaca tablets help combat issues at high altitudes.”
The chewables contain glutathione, glutamine, japanese raisin and prickly pear – for a synergistic combination to help you feel better faster.
Glutathione has been found in research to deplete up to 45% in high elevation conditions!¹ That ingredient alone in Zaca helps replenish your glutathione so you can fight off the physiological effects and oxidative stress from high altitude.
Glutamine, another ingredient packed in Zaca, is also well known in athletic circles for its hydration enhancing abilities. These science-backed chewables are the best way to help your body prepare for your next altitude journey.
For best use, take Zaca chewables a few days leading up to your trip, and then at least a packet a day during your high altitude trip or visit.
While there are natural remedies for altitude sickness, there are also options such as canned oxygen for altitude to help reverse altitude sickness.
Boost Oxygen is a portable, all-natural respiratory support designed to help fight the effects of aging, low oxygen levels due to today's high stress lifestyle, pollution, smoking and poor health habits.
For altitude sickness, your body is using less oxygen and fighting the effects of hypoxia or low oxygen levels. Boost Oxygen can be used to help your body get more oxygen.
Boost Oxygen is available in different aromas including Natural (Unscented), Peppermint and Menthol-Eucalyptus. It is not a medical device and is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical conditions. The product is intended only for recreational use as an inhalant.
Chloroxygen chlorophyll pills are a natural remedy that may help improve oxygen levels in your body, making them a potential ally against altitude sickness. Chlorophyll, a green pigment found in plants, plays a key role in oxygenating the blood by increasing the production of red blood cells. By enhancing your blood's oxygen-carrying capacity, chlorophyll has been claimed to minimize common altitude sickness symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
One of Chloroxygen's standout benefits is its ability to potentially boost energy levels and overall stamina. At high altitudes, where oxygen levels are significantly lower, your body is forced to work harder to maintain normal functions. Chlorophyll supplementation helps your body adapt to these changes more effectively, enabling you to enjoy your elevation adventure with fewer disruptions.
Chloroxygen pills are particularly popular due to their concentrated formula, offering 50 mg of chlorophyll in every pill. This supplement is simple to incorporate into your routine, as the recommended dosage is typically one to two pills daily. For best results, it’s a good idea to start taking pills a few days before ascending to higher altitudes. This gives your body time to prepare and adjust to the change in oxygen availability.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that chlorophyll may have further health benefits, such as supporting digestive health and promoting fresher breath. This makes it a useful supplement for overall wellness in addition to its altitude advantages. With its multipurpose nature and easy portability, Chloroxygen is a practical and effective option for altitude adjustment.
Although Dramamine is primarily known as a remedy for motion sickness, many travelers have also used it to help alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness. This over-the-counter medication is formulated to treat and prevent nausea, dizziness, and vomiting, which are common symptoms of both motion and altitude sickness. While not specifically designed for altitude-related issues, its effectiveness in managing these overlapping symptoms makes it a convenient option for individuals seeking quick relief.
The active ingredient in Dramamine is dimenhydrinate, an antihistamine that reduces the stimulation of the vomiting center in the brain. This mechanism helps block the signals that cause nausea or dizziness, offering symptomatic relief for those struggling with discomfort in high-altitude environments. Altitude sickness often causes similar physical sensations to motion sickness, which is why many users have found it beneficial during high-altitude trips.
One of Dramamine's advantages is its accessibility and ease of use. It is available over the counter in drugstores and online, making it easy to obtain before your trip. It comes in tablet form and, in some cases, as chewable or liquid versions for those who may prefer alternatives to swallowing pills.
Although Dramamine is not a comprehensive solution to altitude sickness—since it doesn’t address lower oxygen levels or fatigue—it can provide significant relief from nausea and dizziness. Pairing it with other remedies, such as hydration aids, oxygen supplements, or chlorophyll pills, may offer a more holistic approach to managing altitude-related challenges.
For best results, it’s recommended to take Dramamine as directed in the product instructions or as advised by a healthcare professional. Typically, it’s suggested to take one tablet 30 to 60 minutes before beginning your ascent or once you start experiencing symptoms. This proactive approach allows the medication to work effectively before symptoms worsen. However, for extended trips or prolonged exposure to altitude, you may need to manage doses according to the duration of your stay.
Advil, a widely used over-the-counter pain reliever containing ibuprofen, can be an effective option for alleviating some of the symptoms associated with altitude sickness, particularly headaches and mild nausea. Due to reduced oxygen levels, altitude sickness often causes inflammation in the body, and ibuprofen’s anti-inflammatory properties can help mitigate this response, providing much-needed relief. Research suggests that ibuprofen may even help prevent the onset of certain altitude sickness symptoms when taken proactively.
Advil is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid gels, making it easy to find a format that suits your needs. Follow the dosage instructions provided on the packaging or those recommended by a medical professional. Typically, adults can take one to two 200mg tablets every 4-6 hours as needed, but you should not exceed the maximum daily dose of 1,200mg unless directed by a doctor. It’s advised to take Advil with food or milk to minimize the risk of stomach irritation, as ibuprofen can sometimes cause gastric discomfort.
The effectiveness of ibuprofen stems from its ability to block the production of prostaglandins, chemicals responsible for inflammation, pain, and fever. At higher altitudes, the body is under stress, which can result in fluid buildup and pressure in the brain or lungs, leading to discomfort or headaches. By decreasing inflammation, ibuprofen can reduce these effects, allowing you to enjoy your high-altitude activities with less interruption.
To maximize the benefits of Advil for altitude sickness, it’s generally recommended to take it as a preventive measure or at the very onset of symptoms. If you’re aware that altitude typically triggers a headache or other symptoms for you, consult with a healthcare professional to determine the optimal dosage and timing. Many experts suggest taking ibuprofen in the first 24 hours after ascending to a higher altitude, even if symptoms have not yet appeared, to preemptively reduce inflammation.
When used thoughtfully as part of a broader strategy for managing altitude sickness, Advil can serve as an invaluable tool for reducing discomfort and preventing inflammation-related symptoms. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice, especially if you have preexisting health conditions or are planning to stay at high altitudes for an extended period.
Dexterity Health Liquid Oxygen is a highly concentrated liquid supplement designed to deliver increased levels of diatomic oxygen to your body. This unique formulation is particularly beneficial for those exposed to high altitudes, where oxygen levels are naturally lower, often causing fatigue, headaches, and other symptoms of altitude sickness. By supporting your oxygen intake, Dexterity Health Liquid Oxygen helps enhance your energy levels, combat altitude sickness, and promote overall well-being. Some users find it beneficial for improving athletic performance and aiding recovery.
This supplement is incredibly versatile and convenient. It comes in a portable dropper bottle that can be easily carried in a backpack, purse, or bag. To use it, simply add a few drops to your water bottle and drink it throughout the day. The tasteless and odorless formula integrates seamlessly into your hydration routine, ensuring you stay refreshed and supported even in challenging environments.
While Dexterity Health Liquid Oxygen isn’t a substitute for proper acclimatization or medical care, it can be a useful part of your altitude health strategy. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are on medication. By incorporating Liquid Oxygen into your routine, you can better prepare your body for the challenges of high altitudes and enjoy your adventures with greater comfort and vitality.
Our Zaca chewables are the easiest and most natural way to help you during high altitude journeys. With a combo of ingredients such as antioxidants, herbs and amino acids -- Zaca helps you feel better faster via rehydration, replenishment and recovery.
Need to stock up on an altitude supplement for your next high altitude trip? Try our top-rated Zaca chewables today!
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