Energy bars OK for short-term meal replacement
Q. For a hassle-free, short, two- to three-day backpacking trip in the mountains, I am thinking of bringing meal bars instead of freeze-dried food. Some bars appear to be complete, balanced meals, while others are snacks or slightly better. Do you have any experience with the better complete-type bars? Could I live on these for two to three days at 10,000 feet with plenty of water and not do damage?
R.S., via e-mail
A. My answer will assume that you are in appropriate shape for such a trek, that you have been fully acclimated to high-altitude hiking and that the only issue is what you would be eating. (For those who want background information on hiking and all it entails, there are many excellent resources online, including www.americanhiking.com, www.hikingdude.com or www.about.com.)
That said, an approach based on real food would be preferable, as it offers a wider variety of flavors and textures. You might find that after living off of meal bars for a few days, they'll all begin to taste alike, and mealtime will lose its special appeal. If that is not what you're after, I see no serious nutritional issues with giving meal-replacement bars a try.
Sample all prospects in advance, as you may not find all to be pleasing to your palate. You will be exhausted, and by the end of the day you will want something satisfying. Find an assortment that brings together sufficient energy (calories), high protein and a balance of nutrients. Select some designed for exertion and others designed to be meal replacements. Have a variety of products so you won't get bored.
Consider supplementing the selection with real food, such as jerky, nuts and dried fruits, as these bring concentrated energy, nutrients and variety. They would add a welcome hedonic boost. With your fluids, you will be all set.
It's only two to three days, the key is to bring along enough calories and nutrients to facilitate, rather than impede, the outing.
Q. I am a trainer in San Diego and have recently heard about an herb or medication that teenagers are ingesting. What are your thoughts on Intelectol/vinpocetine? The advertisement on a Web site says that it is in the Physicians' Desk Reference and seemingly safe. I am worried about teens using this substance - and, actually, anyone! What are your thoughts?
D.B., San Diego, Calif.
A. Why are teenagers taking this stuff? Being in the Physicians' Desk Reference means only that someone has paid to have it listed; it does not denote effectiveness.
Vinpocetine is a synthetic derivative of a chemical found in the periwinkle plant. Studies done to date are quite preliminary, and most involve animal research. Vinpocetine seems to enhance blood flow to the brain and other parts of the body, particularly when administered when there is reduced blood flow, such as after a stroke or other type of vascular accident or cognitive impairment. The idea that this substance might enhance an otherwise normal memory is without scientific merit.
To date, we have some sketchy evidence from stroke victims, or studies in which a memory inhibitor is given, then the vinpocetine is administered to see whether it can counteract the inhibitor. Use by teenagers and young adults is ill-advised, as there is no information on long-term effects or on how this substance might affect memory development.
There are also potential interactions with medications.
Ed Blonz, Ph.D., is the author of the "Your Personal Nutritionist" series. Send questions to: On Nutrition, Ed Blonz, c/o Newspaper Enterprise Association, 200 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10016 or ed@blonz.com. Due to the volume of mail, personal replies cannot be provided.