21 April 2008 09:00
Our ability to digest starch rather than meat is the reason for man’s success over other animals, say scientists from the University of California Santa Cruz, California. They discovered we have extra copies of a gene called AMY1 that allow us to break down and get energy from starchy foods. So which camping meal is best equipped to provide us with this extra energy source on the hill?
Answer
By Anonymous
Nutritionist Allan Johnson explains, “Starch carries a similar energy content to other sugars, but it is released into your body more slowly than the sweet-tasting variety, making it a great energy source for day-long walks. For camping trips, take meals which include the potatoes, pasta, crisps, rice, peas, beans and wholemeal bread. For snacks during the day, cereal bars and ripe bananas are best.”
>> Get your hill food analysed by Allan at www.nutritionroundtheclock.com
Wayfayrer Beans and Sausages in Tomato Sauce
Low starch content 12%
This is modified starch with extra additives to stabilise the gooey mess in the cold.
There’s more fat than protein here, giving it a medium-high calorie content.
Heater Meals Beans and Burger Bites
Low starch content 14.5%
Good low salt content and more protein than fat, giving it a medium to high calorie content.
Expedition Foods Tuna and Pasta
High starch content 58%
High in calories with some healthy oil and fat.
Tesco vegetable rice
Medium starch content 40%
Tasty but salty, with low fat levels, but still plenty of useful calories.
Pot Noodle chicken and mushroom
Low starch content 18%
Low calorie snack, so add some peas or beans. Sauce adds extra salt and flavourings although they claim no artificial preservatives or colourings are included.