Protein is an essential nutrient for backpacking. It helps to fuel your body, build and repair muscle tissue, and provide energy while on the trail. But how much protein do you need a day when backpacking?
The exact amount of protein you need when backpacking depends on several factors, such as your activity level, body size, and gender. Generally speaking, most hikers should consume between 0.5-1 gram of protein per pound of body weight per day. For example, if you weigh 160 pounds, you should try to get 80-160 grams of protein each day while backpacking.
There are many excellent sources of protein for backpacking trips. Beef jerky is a popular option because it’s lightweight and easy to pack. Other great sources include nuts, dried beans, soy products (such as tofu or tempeh), nut butters, seeds (such as chia or hemp seeds), eggs (dehydrated or fresh), Greek yogurt (dried or fresh), and quinoa.
Protein Supplements
In addition to food sources of protein, some hikers opt for a supplemental form such as whey or plant-based proteins. Protein powders are usually much higher in calories than food sources and can help you reach your daily protein requirements with fewer calories.
Benefits Of Protein
Protein has many important benefits when it comes to backpacking trips. It can help increase muscle mass and strength while supporting tissue repair after exercise.
Protein can also help maintain healthy blood sugar levels which is important for energy during long days on the trail. Finally, it can help keep hunger levels low so that you don’t give into cravings along the way.
Conclusion
How much protein do I need a day when backpacking? The amount of protein needed depends on several factors such as activity level, body size and gender but most people should consume between 0. There are many excellent food sources of protein along with supplemental forms such as whey or plant-based proteins that can assist in reaching your daily requirement with fewer calories.