Sichuan Hiking Tips: Eat and Drink

Hiking and trekking are some of the most exhilarating outdoor activities while traveling in Sichuan. While a lot of wild and beautiful places in Sichuan especially in western Sichuan will involve hiking or trekking for hours or even days. Hiking allows you to explore nature, breathe in the fresh air, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the mountains. However, hiking is also physically demanding, that requires energy and endurance. One of the most important factors that contribute to a successful hike is the food you consume before, during, and after the hiking. In this article, we will provide some suggestions on what food to eat while hiking and trekking in the mountains of Sichuan.

What you eat before the hike can have a significant impact on your performance. Ideally, you should consume a meal that is rich in carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, at least two hours before the activity. This meal will provide you with the necessary energy to sustain you throughout the hike. Here are some foods that you can eat before the activity: Oatmeal is an excellent source of carbohydrates, which provide energy to your body. It also contains fiber, which helps to regulate blood sugar levels and keep you feeling full for longer. You can add some nuts, fruits, or honey to your oatmeal to increase the protein and healthy fat content. Whole-grain bread is an excellent source of carbohydrates, which can provide energy for your hike. It also contains fiber, which can help to regulate blood sugar levels and keep you feeling full for longer. You can add some peanut butter, fruit jams or cheese to your bread for additional protein and healthy fats.

During the hike, it is essential to eat foods that are easy to digest and provide a quick energy boost. Here are some foods that you can eat during the activity: Energy bars are a great source of carbohydrates and protein, which can provide energy and help to maintain muscle mass during the hiking. Look for energy bars that are low in sugar and high in fiber for sustained energy. Fresh fruits such as apples, bananas, and oranges are a great source of carbohydrates and fiber. They also contain vitamins and minerals, which are essential for maintaining good health. They are easy to carry and can provide a quick energy boost during the hiking.

After the hike, your body will need to replenish the nutrients and energy that were lost during the hiking. It is essential to consume a meal that is rich in carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.

Instant Mountain Food

Instant mountain food is difficult to purchase in Sichuan except the instant noodles. Instant noodles are easy to buy almost anywhere. It is the most popular mountain food in China. But when you buy the instant noodles, be aware that most of the noodles are spicy flavored. So if you don’t want to eat the spicy ones pick the non spicy ones. To eat local food is part of your experience doing the hiking in Sichuan. At the hiking destinations, the local food is a combined version of Sichuan style and Tibetan style. Local food are usually a little spicy, but you will probably have already accustomed yourself into it for the first few meals you tried after you arrive in Sichuan. To go in arranged tours, the dinners served are usually stir fires of vegetable and meat, rice, noodles. For breakfast, tea and local bread or noodles are normally popular. You can buy coffee, sugar, oatmeal, fruits in Chengdu and Kandging and bring them with you.

Drinking Water

The water from rivers and streams in the hiking destinations in Sichuan are fine and not polluted. But there are animals at the upstream of the rivers so they are the source of the possible contamination. To go with the porters hot and boiled water is served at the campsites. To boil the water is the popular way to prepare drinking water here. There are no shops along many of the hiking trails.

In addition to the specific food suggestions listed above, here are some general tips for eating while hiking or trekking:

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is essential to maintain good health and performance during the activity. You should drink water before, during, and after the hike to stay hydrated. You can also bring a water filter or water purification tablets if you plan to drink water from natural sources.

Pack Light and Portable Foods

The foods that you pack for the hike should be lightweight, easy to carry, and portable. You can pack foods in small containers or bags to make them easier to carry. You are recommmedned to pack foods that do not require refrigeration or cooking. Remove the extra and unnecessary packaging while packing your food.

Avoid Heavy or Greasy Foods

Heavy or greasy foods can be difficult to digest and can slow down your performance during the activity. You should avoid foods such as fast food, fried food, or high-fat foods before and during the hike.

Listen to Your Body

Your body will give you signals when it needs food or water. You should listen to your body and eat or drink when you feel hungry or thirsty. You should also take breaks and rest when you feel tired or exhausted.