Cannabis and Altitude: How to Enjoy Yourself Safely in Breckenridge, CO

Colorado is one of the most beautiful states. It’s also the highest state in terms of average elevation and the best state to find quality local craft cannabis when looking for a memorable high. All this beauty may come at a price, however. The average elevation in Colorado is 6,800 feet, which makes altitude sickness a real possibility for visitors. Luckily, we have tips on how to avoid altitude sickness when in Colorado, so you can enjoy and appreciate its unmatched beauty and outstanding weed safely.

What Is Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness results from exposure to lower oxygen at high altitudes. Low atmospheric pressure at elevations of just 5,000 feet can cause negative symptoms. Moving to higher elevations without allowing your body to adapt to lower oxygen and air pressure can lead to shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, diminished appetite, and sleep disturbances. In extreme cases, serious symptoms can be fatal.

What Is the Altitude of Breckenridge Colorado?

Breckenridge, at 9,600 feet above seal level, is a popular destination in Colorado because of its world-class skiing and snowboarding and award-winning cannabis cultivators, among countless other attributes. Breckenridge Ski Resort’s summit sits at 12,998 feet. At these elevations, you’re at heightened risk of altitude sickness, which can catch you off guard if you don’t take precautions.

How to Avoid Altitude Sickness in Colorado

As soon as you step off the plane at Denver International Airport, you’re at 5,280 feet! Whether you’re consuming cannabis or just hitting the slopes, these tips can help you mitigate your risk of altitude sickness:

1. Start Low Go Slow: Like cannabis dosing, to avoid altitude sickness, consider spending a few days at lower elevations before ascending to higher destinations. A quick layover in Denver, for example, can cut your risk by up to half. For elevations over 10,000 feet, experts suggest ascending less than 1,000 feet daily.
2. Sleep at Lower Elevations: Enjoy the day on the slopes but sleep at lower elevations. When sleeping, your breathing slows, so you’re getting less oxygen, which can worsen altitude sickness effects.
3. Keep Hydrated: The air becomes drier at higher altitudes. Dehydration can worsen altitude sickness symptoms. Consider drinking at least five large glasses of water daily.
4. Steer Clear of Alcohol, Caffeine, and Salty Foods: They are very dehydrating, so avoid them, especially during the first few days, until your body becomes acclimated.
5. Bulk Up on Carbs: You can metabolize carbs better than fat and protein at higher altitudes. Consider a diet of about 70 percent carbohydrates.
6. Take It Easy: Rest sufficiently and avoid strenuous exercise or activities for a few days, so your body can acclimate.
7. Watch for Symptoms: Note any symptoms of altitude sickness that continue or worsen and seek medical attention.

Can Cannabis Help with Altitude Sickness?

Some cannabis products may ease mild altitude sickness symptoms like nausea, headaches, appetite loss, and insomnia. Here’s how different cannabinoids can help:

• THC: Can help with nausea and bronchial dilation (expanded airways) for better airflow.
• CBD: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD can help manage headaches and fatigue. Try products like:
  • Mary’s Medicinals Tinctures and Patches
  • WYLD Gummies
  • Wana Gummies
  • CBDayz products (popular among Colorado’s extreme athletes)
• CBG: Offers focus and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great option for those staying active. Recommended products:
  • WYLD Gummies
  • Wana Gummies
  • Mary’s Medicinals Patches
• CBN: Best for sleep support. It can aid nighttime recovery by improving rest. Consider:
  • WYLD Gummies
  • Wana Gummies
  • Mary’s Medicinals Patches

Boost Oxygen can also provide temporary oxygen relief. While it lacks certified medical benefits, anecdotally, it has been a helpful product to many throughout Breckenridge.

Does Weed Help with Altitude Sickness?

Some studies and anecdotal research show cannabis may help with mild symptoms of altitude sickness, such as nausea, headache, loss of appetite, and insomnia. Consuming small doses of THC may also help expand the bronchial air passages (bronchodilation), increasing airflow to your lungs.

If you’re in the Breckenridge area, stop by Breckenridge Organic Therapy and speak with one of their expert budtenders for more information. You’ll find Colorado’s highest quality cannabis, including award-winning strains and all your cannabis needs.