Introduction
Researches about Damavand mount acclimatization problems show that : 70% of the mountaineers who spent one night in Damavand hut (4250m) have suffered some kind of height problem.
Most people experience only headaches, however, cases such as acute altitude sickness and even edema have been reported. The main reason for this is the decrease in air pressure at high altitudes, so that the air pressure at Damavand Peak is about 50% of the high seas.
In this article, we will point out some key points to help you for better Damavand mount acclimatization .
1. Increase physical fitness
One of the key factors for better Damavand acclimatization increasing physical fitness . Doing aerobic exercise increases blood volume and thus easier delivery of oxygen to cells.
The prepared person is less exposed to sports stress, and as a result, key body functions will be less stressed after hours of activity. The digestive system is no exception.
In order to get ready enough to climb Damavand , we suggest : regular mountaineering , weekly aerobic exercises and weight training . The key factor is to maintain an exercise routine so that your body gets used to the new conditions.
2. Touch altitude to improve Damavand acclimatization
The process of Damavand acclimatization is usually formed gradually in the body of people and includes getting used to the altitude mentally and physically. Climbing an over 4,000 meters peak alone can not lead to good acclimatization for Damavand peak . We suggest that you have a two to three month plan to climb Damavand Peak . You can start with a few easy peaks . Allow at least twice to touch an altitude of 4,000 meters. Touching an altitude means staying at that altitude for at least 2-3 hours so that the body receives enough signal to produce enough red blood cells. Experience has shown that twice touching the height definitely works better than once.
Note that red blood cells take 7 to 10 days to grow and mature. On the other hand, the lifespan of blood cells is three weeks. This means that after the last touch of altitude, the effect of weathering appears in the body after about a week and will remain for three weeks.
3. Consumption of antioxidants
Consumption of antioxidants such as vitamin C can inhibit oxidative stress on the body. This stress at height altitude can increase due to lack of oxygen and more effort of the body.
A study of climbers on Mount Everest showed that antioxidant supplements were effective in reducing the incidence of acute mountain sickness (AMS) and improving the physiological characteristics of climbers. You can increase the use of vitamin C and other antioxidants during the climb to Damavand and training days.
4. High-energy and fast-digesting foods
During your climb eat foods that are not heavy for the digestive system and, of course have high energy. Foods such as boiled potatoes, low-fat pasta, and sugary drinks can be considered as examples in this regard. Eating slow-digesting foods puts extra strain on the body’s mechanisms. In addition, eat foods that you are familiar with and normally consume in your diet. Never try new foods on the mountain.
5. Drink enough water
We lose water during daily activities through sweating, breathing and urination, which increases with more activity. One of the reasons for the increase in blood concentration can be dehydration . it reduces the fluidity of the blood and the poor transfer of oxygen to the cells and it can have a negative impact on mountaineering to climb Damavand or any other peak.
During the climb to maintain body fluids, include 300 to 500 cc of fluid intake in your schedule every hour to minimize the effects of dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration include not urinating or colored urine.
6. Use a suitable backpack
Carrying unnecessary equipment and supplies will make your backpack heavier and the weight of the backpack will increase the pressure on the body. This causes excessive pressure, especially for those who are not accustomed to backpacking, which will negatively affect the weathering process.
We recommend that you carry only the equipment you need. The weight of the bag for a typical climb in Damavand summer is 10-12 kg and for a climb in winter is usually about 15 kg, which of course will include all the necessities. To adjust the bag, check different items with the help of more experienced friends so that you do not take too much with you or leave anything behind.
Final tip : best Damavand acclimatization is climbing Damavand with :Persiatrek co.
You can chose one of our following tour fro climbing mount Damavand :