Nutrition in the Wilderness

Abstract

and DynaMed and the University of Vermont's library sources on proper nutrition in the backcountry, athletic energy expenditure, and military rationing for wilderness travel from the year 1980 to present. Results: Energy expenditure often increases in the backcountry. Energy expenditure in athletes frequently far exceeds (31%) their energy intake. In the backcountry, polar climates induce increased energy expenditure due to maintenance of core body temperature. High-altitude climates require a high carbohydrate intake to aid in acclimatization. Hot climates induce sweating and require fluid and electrolyte replacement. Conclusions: Many factors, including energy intake and expenditure, hydration, and climate, influence the macronutrient and micronutrient composition necessary to maintain health in the backcountry and should be taken into consideration in the planning and preparation of a backcountry expedition. Nutr Today. 2013;48(6):262Y266 BACKCOUNTRYThe backcountry, defined as ''1 or more primitive or wilderness areas that are reached primarily by hiking, boating, or horseback,'' is widely used and enjoyed by the public. 1 In 2010, more than 1.7 million people spent time in the backcountry in the National Park system, and there are more than 84 million acres of backcountry wilderness in the United States. 1 Time spent in the backcountry often involves high-exertion activities such as backpacking, skiing (both cross-country and alpine), snowboarding, ice climbing, snow walking, or mountaineering. These activities demand high energy expenditures (EEs) and intakes for participants to maintain energy balance. The climate in the backcountry can vary greatly. Climate conditions can affect the nutrient requirements of people in the backcountry. In the wilderness, it is often necessary for people to carry all their food and occasionally their water. During backcountry expeditions, there are often physically challenging activities (eg, backpacking, skiing, mountaineering) paired with harsh climates (polar, high-altitude, or hot climates) that can influence the macronutrients and micronutrients necessary for participants to maintain proper metabolic functioning. ENERGY EXPENDITURE AND ENERGY INTAKEIn the United States, nutrition is often aimed at lowering the risk of developing chronic lifestyle-related diseases and maintaining long-term optimal health for a dominantly urban and sedentary population. However, when in the backcountry, the nutritional focus shifts to more immediate needs. According to Auerbach, 2 ''when a stressful physical environment is superimposed on the physically demanding tasks associated with wilderness activities, the role of nutrition becomes of prime importance for maintenance of performance and prevention of disease and injury.'' Proper nutrition in the backcountry maintains the physical foundation for an injury-free trip and improves chances for survival. In order to maintain weight, a general rule is that 44 to 55 kcal per kilogram of body weight per day is needed to meet the energy needs of...