Hiking provides an unparalleled outdoor experience, thanks to the stunning landscapes, fresh air, and of course, an opportunity to exercise. While mental readiness is important, hikers shouldn’t forget that physical preparation is equally essential.
A critical part of this preparation includes packing the right nutritional supplements to support the body during this arduous yet rewarding activity. In this article, we’ll discuss several supplements you should consider taking on your hiking expeditions, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out.
Must-Have Supplements For Your Hiking Trip
1. Vitamin D Supplements
While the sun naturally provides this vitamin, it is essential to pack Vitamin D supplements while going on a hike. This is because the sun can be scarce, especially if you’re hiking in cloudy weather or through heavily covered areas.
The best bit about Vitamin D supplements is that they help your body to absorb calcium for strong bones and teeth and maintain your immune system strength. Moreover, they are essential for ensuring proper muscle function during your hike.
2. Vitamin B Complex
Another supplement you shouldn’t overlook when considering what to pack for a hiking trip is the Vitamin B complex. This group of essential nutrients plays an instrumental role in energy production by helping to convert the food you eat into fuel.
That means Vitamin B complex supplements can ensure your body has the energy it needs during your outdoor adventures. Additionally, they can support red blood cell growth and proper functioning of different body systems, which is crucial while out on physically demanding hikes.
3. Magnesium Supplements
If you’re preparing for a hike, magnesium supplements are something you might want to consider packing. This is because magnesium is involved in more than 300 biochemical reactions in our bodies!
It plays a significant role in nerve function, muscle contraction, and energy production. When hiking, it becomes even more essential to ensure that these bodily functions are working optimally. In addition to this, having enough magnesium can assist with better sleep after a tiring day of hiking and help prevent muscle cramps on the trail.
4. Iron Supplements
Iron is another vital supplement to consider for hiking. This mineral plays a pivotal role in transporting oxygen in the blood, which is crucial when undertaking physical activities like hiking.
Furthermore, iron can help prevent fatigue that may occur during long or strenuous hikes. If our bodies don’t get enough iron, it could result in anemia, which could make you tired more easily and affect your hiking performance.
Therefore, iron supplements can provide a great backup to ensure your energy levels remain steady throughout your adventure. Remember to pair it with Vitamin C-rich food or drink for better absorption.
5. Pre-workout Supplements
Pre-workout supplements are the unsung heroes of performance-enhancing substances ideal for hiking. As multi-ingredient products, they’re designed to prime your body before you embark on a physically demanding activity.
These supplements essentially give your system the extra push it may need while hiking by supporting increased energy, improved focus, and enhanced athletic performance. They work within 20-30 minutes of ingestion due to the active ingredients present in the formula being metabolized at this pace.
The duration of the pre-workout effects can vary according to each person’s metabolism rate, but they generally help maintain endurance during your hike. Remember, consuming them before starting your hike is best for optimal benefits.
6. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Another essential supplement to consider for your hiking adventure is Omega-3 fatty acids.
Primarily, Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their heart health advantages, and they play a critical role in brain function as well. When you’re hiking, the body requires a lot of resources, and these nutrients aid in supplying them optimally.
Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of Omega-3 can help reduce muscle soreness that generally follows after a strenuous hike.
7. Electrolyte Supplements
This rundown of hiking supplements would not be complete without mentioning electrolyte supplements. When you’re out there sweating on the trails, these marvels help maintain your body’s hydration level, which is crucial for endurance and performance.
Electrolytes like sodium, potassium, chloride, and magnesium are vital for the normal function of your body’s cells and organs. They help maintain fluid balance, nerve signaling, and muscle contractions, including your heart!
However, it is always best to consult a health professional before taking electrolytes or starting any new supplement regime.