Leadville: Eating at altitude
Posted on July 8, 2009, under Uncategorized.
In the last segment we gave some tips on hydrating prior to your adventure. Yet, man does not survive above 10,000ft on drink alone. You need some fuel for that engine.
Because altitude can effect you a different way from day to day it’s difficult to plan for 5-10 hours of food while in the saddle. Often times if your are racing in a supported event you will be fortunate enough to have a smorgasbord of choices at the support stations. However, you can ensure you’re properly fueled by preparing a day or two before.
Contrary to popular opinion loading up on carbohydrates is not the ideal diet the day before. I have found that a regular breakfast and lunch followed by a protein and some carbohydrates in your dinner is ideal. Stay away from greasy food unless you’d like to see it again the next day. Don’t worry too much about what you eat just make sure you’re eating.
The morning of your race you may have nerves keeping you from sitting at the breakfast table. Make sure you eat, but, don’t worry about consuming a large volume of food. I find oatmeal with raisins and bananas is easy on the stomach and provide some sustainable energy for the first part of your day.
Once you hit the trail you may notice that once again nerves and now altitude and output are effecting your appetite. It’s critical that you eat small amounts frequently. This is where gels come in handy. They digest well for most and provide quick energy. If you are out for more than a few hours you need to consider something more substantial. Peanut butter and jelly, or honey, sandwiches will provide the carbohydrates and protein you need to keep your engine running. Regardless of your appetite you need to consume something substantive after a few hours at altitude. Gels and bars will not sustain you through 4 or 5 hours of hard riding.
So before you head out for your Leadville or other high altitude adventure keep in mind that you don’t need a complicated nutrition program. Eat what you like, keep it healthy, and relax. It’s not your job, right?
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