Dietary Tips for the Manaslu Circuit Trek: From Apples to Pomegranates

26 Sep 2024 Chandra Gurung

One of our trekkers quoted, ‘’The fruits (apple and pomegranate) for extra vitamins were a nice touch at the end of the day. Highly recommend it!’’ You can not overlook how these fruits we often ignore on our kitchen tables are an important part of our diets during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. 

They weren’t wrong when saying ‘’An apple a Day Keeps a Doctor Away.’’ Think of this quote during the trek and much on the delicious fruit to get the stamina to keep going. 

Why do trekkers consume lots of apples and pomegranates while trekking? Let us explore more about why a trekker’s balanced diet includes many fruits.

Why Should a Trekker Include Apples and Pomegranates in their diet?

What happens to the human body while trekking? Walking different routes and that too in extreme conditions, your body is trying to adapt to everything quickly, making it sick. 

A small apple and a pomegranate give your body the right dose of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants while trekking. That is not all. Trekking quickly dehydrates your body and these fruits have high water content, keeping you hydrated as well as making your taste buds happy. For those who drink less water during the trek, hydrate your body with these fruits. 

A proper combination diet of carbs, protein, and vitamins, is needed to fight any challenges that the Manaslu Trek may throw at you. And fruits like apples and pomegranates also make it to the list.

Due to weather factors or bodily stress, trekkers sometimes suffer from poor digestion. But guess what? These two wonder fruits are rich in fiber that strengthens your gut health and helps in digestion. So, trek freely without the fear of having a poor stomach. 

Nutrient composition in apples

You will find cell protection properties in apples called quercetin. Get your dose of vitamins A, C, and K in just one apple. Apples promote strong bones and teeth because of their presence in potassium, calcium, and phosphorus.

Nutrient composition in pomegranates

Make your heart healthy and glowing skin, and have pomegranates. With polyphenols and anthocyanins, this wonder fruit fights against many issues like aging, cardiovascular disease, etc. 

These fruits also have punicalagins which fight inflammation. This fruit also contains potassium, manganese, and copper.

Can Everyone Eat Apples and Pomegranates on the Trek?

The honest answer is No. Certain situations and health issues demand a person to avoid eating apples and pomegranates. Gastrointestinal patients must not eat apples on an empty stomach or after sunset as it can make matters worse. Before having an apple, make sure your stomach is already full.

In pomegranate’s case, this fruit is better avoided by people who are on cancer or blood pressure medications. 

If you have any of these issues, no worries, there are plenty of fruits with the same nutrients as these like pears, apricots, figs, etc.

Do Apples and Pomegranates Grow Near Manaslu?

Apples do not thrive in the harsh high altitudes of Nepal including the Manaslu. That said, this tasty fruit is grown in some parts of the lower region of Manaslu. 

The locals also import apples from other parts of the country. So, if you’re thinking of adding apples to your diet, you can easily buy them from local markets or teahouses.

Pomegranates are not normally suitable for growing in the Manaslu mainly because of their specific climate needs. You need to carry them from Kathmandu or Pokhara because it is unlikely that you will find them in Manaslu.

What else should a trekker’s diet consist of?

A trekker must eat lots of carbohydrates and proteins as well. The Manaslu circuit offers a different range of organic and healthy foods. The teahouses where trekkers stay prepare fresh food with ingredients straight from their gardens. 

You will be served a combination of rice, veggies, lentil soup, meat, etc which have different forms of nutrients to give you energy, something you can never go wrong with. No wonder why Nepalese parents insist their kids eat these items. 

Dal-bhat as it is called in Nepali is a high-calorie food. It is a bit heavy for someone who is on a diet but a perfect meal for trekkers. Just have a stomach full of dal-bhat and do not underestimate the level of energy this food combo can give you. 

If you’re a snacker and love munching on a lot, there are plenty of options to keep in your trekking bag. 

• Carry dry fruits and seeds for extra nutrients. 
• Also, pack some chocolates or dark chocolates should I say since they are great antioxidants. 
• Taking packets of dehydrated foods and crackers will also give you a fulfilling meal where there is no place to eat.
• Energy bars can not be missed during trekking. 

The options to buy food items lessen as you go up. Therefore, buy some cans of energy drinks as they can help energize your body. Carrying some instant noodle packets so you can eat whenever you feel hungry. 

Note that your Manaslu Trek takes from 14 to 20 days so it is up to you to estimate how much fruit or snacks you have to carry. We insist on eating lots of fruit on your trek.

Food Restrictions During Manaslu Trek

Now that you are clear about what foods you can have during the Manaslu Trek, let’s discuss some food items that you should avoid. It is equally necessary to note that certain foods must be kept off your list during the trek or else some serious issues may pop up.

This is going to make meat lovers a bit disappointed. Take this advice and do not eat meat if you go above 2500 meters. This is because the freezing system is not good and that does not keep the meat fresh, creating chances of making you ill. Many of us can’t do without spicy foods but spicy foods and trek don’t mingle. You can relish spicy dishes once the trek is over, successfully.

If you are lactose-intolerant, your stomach won’t prefer milk or cheese even if they are fresh. Carbonated drinks and caffeine should not make it to your normal diet let alone the trekking diet. These items cause dehydration so that’s another reason not to consume them on days when you require extra hydration. 

Increase Hydration Level During Manaslu Circuit Trek

Isn’t it unfair to forget water when it is the most important part of your diet? Mainly a trekker who is constantly walking to a higher altitude, hydration plays the biggest part. A trekker needs to drink at least three liters of water a day to prevent altitude sickness. Lukewarm water instead of cold water is better. 

Mineral water bottles are available at every teahouse but we have to think about the environment as well. So what can you do? The best option is to bring your reusable bottles and refill them at rest stops along the way. 

The locals drink fresh spring water often created from melted snow. You can try that as well but remember to purify the water because the locals are accustomed to it and you’re not.

You can use water purification tablets for this purpose. That way you will stay hydrated and not harm the environment as well. 

What Should Post-Trek Diet Look Like?

Do yourself a favor and have a nutritious diet after the long trek. Trust me your body will thank you for it. Listening to your body’s cravings is important since it is trying to navigate the changes.

That said, remember that your body is still recovering from the stress and trying to get back to its normal phase. So, treat it with lots of hydration, proteins, vitamins, and electrolytes. Enjoy your meal but in a good way.

Conclusion

Manaslu Trek tests a trekker’s determination to bits. To conquer the difficult circuit trek, one needs to give their body the right nutrition. Apples and pomegranates are some of the fruits that you should not hesitate to add to your diet if you are willing to complete the trek successfully. Since these fruits are very portable and do multitasking for your health, take them with you on the trek.

Also, you can contact the Manaslu Guide team to help you with your trip to Manaslu Circuit Trek.

FAQs

Q: Can we eat while trekking?

A: Absolutely! Eating while trekking is necessary for your body as that is one way to prevent fatigue and maintain the energy level of your body. We strictly prohibit you from skipping any meals and water. Pack your favourites like protein bars, chips, and dried fruits. Hydrate your body with water and fruits. If you feel dizzy or tired, take a break, eat your snacks and rest for a while. 

Q: What Should I Eat Before Trekking to Manaslu?

A: Remind yourself to eat a balanced diet a few hours before starting a trek. Manaslu Circuit Trek can be daunting to some. Eat your carbohydrates like oatmeal or rice and lean protein like chicken, fish, and lots of fruits and veggies. You can touch spicy foods after the trek. And hydrate.