Eating Right Fortifies Hunters
October 2, 2007
Seafood provides energy and nutrition for a more successful hunt
Once again, it’s that blaze-orange time of year when thousands of
hunters take to the woods with hopes of bagging a trophy buck. A good deer hunting season takes more than a steady shot and a little luck. Key to the success of the hunt is the stamina, energy and alertness of the hunter, which translates into “Eat Right!” When your body is properly fueled, you can hunt longer and more effectively. You won’t run out of gas during a drive or lack the necessary alertness while on the stand.
Hunters are usually meat-eaters, but when you eat meat, your digestive system has to really work to break down the high concentration of protein. This means that blood is directed to the digestive system to allow it to work harder. In turn, there is less blood feeding the muscles, so you feel more tired, more quickly. Good nutrition and eating habits not only provide fuel for the chase, but also affect long-term health and physical fitness – both of which can significantly impact hunting success.
“Seafood is a great alternative to meat and is healthier for you too,” says Kim Wall, a seafood expert whose company produces the popular Ma Baensch herring. “It’s a good source of omega-3s, which medical research has shown to be key in the battle against heart disease. A fish like herring is rich in omega-3s, plus there’s the tradition of eating herring for good luck – which makes a powerful combination for today’s hunter.”
Another energy-saving tip is to actually eat more often. Regular, light snacks get digested quicker to produce the maximum amount of energy in your body. So, when you’re packing your hunting gear and loading the coolers, think healthy snacks and seafood options. Smoked trout, canned or pouched salmon and herring are delicious ways to incorporate seafood into your hunting weekend menu. “Smoked fish and ready-to-eat seafood taste great with crackers and require no prep work,” Wall says. “But then when the hunt is over, fire up the grill, trade some glory stories with your fellow hunters and treat yourself to a big, juicy steak. And if you’re really feeling adventurous, throw some shrimp on the ‘Barbie’ for a surf-and-turf classic!”
An Easy Seafood Recipe from Ma Baensch
What better way to start the day than with a healthy breakfast of salmon cakes, eggs and whole wheat toast? Believe it or not, substituting heavy breakfast meats like bacon, ham or sausage, with seafood like salmon can boost energy and stamina levels throughout the day.
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Mediterranean Salmon Cakes
4 – 7 oz pouches pink salmon, boneless and skinless
3 eggs, raw
½ cup whole wheat bread toasted and shredded
½ cup onion, minced
½ cup kalamata olives, diced
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
1 T oregano
1 t cumin
¼ t dill
2 T freshly squeezed lemon juice
Olive oil
Lemon wedges
In large skillet over medium heat, sauté onions in a small amount of olive oil. In a medium bowl, combine salmon, eggs, shredded bread, onions, olives, feta cheese, spices and lemon juice. Mix well; shape into eight 1/2-inch thick patties.
Add salmon patties and a small amount of more olive oil to the skillet. Cook three to four minutes per side or until golden brown. Serve patties with fresh lemon wedges and toast.
Makes 8 cakes
