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| Information > Base Info > Altitude |
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Adjusting to High Altitude
 Altitude at the U.S. Air Force Academy varies from approximately 6,200 feet near Interstate 25 to 9,000 feet on the Farish Recreation Area grounds. Newcomers to Colorado may experience symptoms related to altitude sickness until their bodies adjust to the lower air pressure.
The following steps can help you prevent or reduce the effect of high altitude until your body adjusts to the climate:
-- Stay hydrated. Fluid loss often accompanies the acclimatization process, so drink three to four quarts of water per day to remain properly hydrated.
-- Don't overexert yourself. Light activity during the day is better than sleeping because respiration decreases during sleep, exacerbating symptoms of altitude sickness.
-- Avoid alcohol and tobacco. Alcohol acts as a depressant to depress respiration during sleep. In addition, tobacco products may decrease lung capacity.
-- Eat a high-carb diet. More than 70 percent of your daily calories should come from complex carbohydrates such as starches.
For more information on adjusting to high altitude, visit Princeton University's Outdoor Action Guide to High Altitude*.
* Disclaimer: The appearance of hyperlinks does not constitute endorsement by the U.S. Air Force of this Web site or the information, products, or services contained therein. For other than authorized activities such as military exchanges and morale, welfare and recreation sites, the U.S. Air Force does not exercise any editorial control over the information you may find at these locations. Such links are provided consistent with the stated purpose of this DOD Web site.
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