Extra Protein

Yep! It happened…

I. ate. a. bug.

Sucked the thing straight down into my oesophagus and it was gross. I choked, I spat. I tried all the super classy methods to evict that sucker! Inevitably, though, I ate it. Mortified does not begin to cover how I felt.

I know it has happened to us all before. As a child, I have vivid memories of my mother telling me, “don’t worry, it’s just a bit of extra protein.” However, this time I felt violated somehow. I did not want that type of protein. The protein decision should be mine and mine alone.

So, my unwanted bug encounter got me thinking about protein preparation for my upcoming overnight hike.

Why do hikers need protein?

I am not an athlete; I do not count calories or have a deep understanding of the mechanisms of the human body. Nevertheless, I know that protein is important to any diet, let alone the diet of a hiker during a multi-day hike.

Protein is essential for life. It makes amino acids, which produce important molecules in our bodies (okay, I know the science teacher in me is coming out here. It was always going to happen for a post like this. Please bear with me). Adequate amounts of protein are required for the production of enzymes, hormones and antibodies. They also repair muscles, control glucose levels and help your body to digest food.

So, the point is…protein is good for you.

If you intend to hike, regardless of the distance, you will need to ensure you have enough protein to sustain your energy levels throughout the walk. If, like me, you intend to complete a multi-day hike, protein is essential to get right.

My current go-to’s

Many of you will know that I am a hiking novice. All food options for me are a process of trial and error and I won’t lie; I’m pretty fussy. Here is my list of success stories when it comes to protein:

Salami and cheese.

I do love me a bit of wurst. It is easy to transport and doesn’t require chilling. Cheese, on the other hand, can be tricky. The best options I have tried so far are the little ‘Laughing Cow’ spreadable cheeses and the small ‘Babybel’ options. Both are tasty options.

Nut bars.

Raw nuts stuck together with loads of honey! YUM! There are so many options available. You can find them in the health food section of the grocery store with little preservatives (and little sugar, if you so desire).

Peanut butter.

Peanut butter on bread. Peanut butter and celery. Peanut M&M’s. Peanut butter protein balls (with extra protein powder added). I love peanut butter and will incorporate it in every possible situation. I make no excuses for this love affair haha.

Yet to try protein options:

Boiled eggs.

This will be my breakfast option for my first multi-day hike. I love eggs. I eat them every morning for breakfast and they are the only way that my stomach will not scream at me before 11:30am (teacher lunch time).

Edamame.

One of the best things about Japanese cuisine, is also a big ticket item in the protein world. #winning In fact, they are one of the highest-ranking vegetables for protein! My biggest issue will be skipping the salt while hiking (sad face).

Mr T recommends:

For those, like Mr T (insert corny love music here), who are far less fussy than I am, try the following:

Jerky.

It’s dried meat. I will never try it but apparently, it is tasty and is loaded with protein.

Canned tuna.

Dear tuna…I hate your stinking guts…you make me vomit (top marks for those who guess the movie reference). I honestly wish I liked tuna because I know just how good it is for your body. I just cannot stomach it. However, if you’re into it, take it on your hike. It is lightweight, high in protein and low in fat. Just be kind and brush your teeth before you go kissing anyone.

Protein comes in many, non-buggy forms. Whichever options you choose, make sure you are prepared with enough food to adequately sustain your energy throughout the hike.

My inexperienced hiker rule – always pack too much food.

What protein-laden foods do you pack during your hikes? Let me know in the comments below.