Hats off to all the Sherpas! They are a true mountaineers.
But we must understand that Sherpas have superhuman power. Like for real! None of us without their genes can push the body at high altitudes so effortlessly.
Sherpas possess remarkable genetic adaptations enabling them to thrive at high altitudes. One key adaptation is their body's ability to produce more nitric oxide, which facilitates better blood flow and enhanced oxygen delivery to vital tissues. Additionally, they exhibit higher hemoglobin concentrations, aiding in superior oxygen transport throughout the body. A notable feature of their cellular structure is a higher concentration of mitochondria, the energy-producing powerhouses, that continue to operate efficiently even under reduced oxygen conditions. Unlike many lowlanders who respond to lower oxygen levels by ramping up red blood cell production, Sherpas maintain a relatively normal red blood cell count. This unique physiological response is an evolutionary advantage, as it allows for efficient oxygen utilization without the need for increased red blood cell production.
https://youtu.be/QG7j_oue2_w?si=P5eNoPZUzm1wg38H
Whenever I go back to my hometown, and if I start doing physical work without taking a 3-day rest, I start feeling high altitude sickness, even though I am a native. People who are not from that area sometimes have to use additional oxygen.
I respect mountaineers more than anything because I know it's not just about climbing. I have a lot of Nepali friends, and I even know some Nepali language. They are amazing people.
My understanding is that it is not genetic, and is a temporary adaptation. If they descend back to sea level for a few months then back to altitude their bodies generally respond similarly to most
It can vary. 'Most' because most people don't "live" at high altitudes; those altitudes are quite extreme. It is difficult to put in a prospective, there is no other mountain range like Himalayas and Karakoram.
Additionally, there are many serious scientific research regarding Sherpas in this specific matter.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3515610/
For sure. I was in the himalayas a month ago when someone explained the anecdotal phenomenon to me. Regardless, sherpas and anyone living in the desolate altis are elite
I consider them top athletes; it is nice that they are finally getting the recognition. They deserve it more than anyone else.
Btw how was your experience in Himalayas, which region?
For sure. My brother and i did a 2k (vertical) hike when we stopped in sachu beginning at about 15.5k and i was working! 😮💨
Experience was incredible. Shimla to leh on bikes via a few high passes. Really mind blowing. Was it you i saw was there a little earlier ?
Leh! I literally spent my childhood near Leh, Ladakh. I studied for some time in Himachal state, city next to Shimla, when I was in India. 😅
Those are undoubtedly the best places. If you have any plans for the next climbing season, let me know. We can plan something.
My brother and i both said - we could easily live in Leh. Beautiful part of the world
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