Adventure-Tested, Hangry-Approved: Fueling Tips

Exploring Washington state's vast outdoor opportunities can be thrilling - from kayaking in the San Juan Islands to hiking in the North Cascades or rock climbing in Leavenworth. However, it's easy to overlook a crucial aspect of adventure planning: proper fueling. Many of us have found ourselves underprepared, without enough food or water, leading to underfueling during physical activity.

Underfueling can cause a range of issues, including:

- Blood sugar dips

- Low energy and poor performance

- Brain fog

- Mood changes

- Cramps

- Increased injury risk

But don't worry, it's easy to avoid the dreaded "hangry" feeling! Here's how:

1. Assess your adventure: Consider the setting, temperature, duration, water access, and storage needs.

2. Pack snacks for every 60-90 minutes of activity, ensuring each snack includes carbohydrates.

3. Aim for at least 8oz of fluid per hour of activity. If you have access to a water filter, you may not need to pack as much water.

4. Consider adding an electrolyte supplement based on temperature, duration, and intensity.

By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to tackle your next adventure with energy.

Outdoor snack examples:

-dried fruit, Cheerios, nuts

-tortilla, nut butter and honey 

-granola bars (Kind, Bobo’s, Promeal, Larabar, NatureValley)

-popcorn

-hummus and pita bread 

Keep in mind that these tips are just a starting point, and there's more to explore when it comes to optimizing your nutrition for outdoor adventures. For a personalized and comprehensive approach to fueling your outdoor pursuits, consider scheduling a consultation with me. Click the schedule tab to book your appointment and let's dive deeper into tailoring a nutrition plan that meets your unique needs and goals.