MoonWalkers must be prepared for a long night

Published on Saturday 20 June 2009 11:25

TONIGHT will see the Capital awash with brightly coloured bras when more than 10,000 walkers turn the streets a sea of pink for the annual MoonWalk Edinburgh. Even the classical-looking Balmoral is turning a bold pink hue for those who are taking to the city centre streets to raise millions for the Walk the Walk charity.

When it comes to the actual event itself, let's face it – it's hardly a walk in park. After all, whether you march or run it, a marathon is a testing 26.2 miles of hard slog which pushes the body hard. And so, energy is key. Which is where food comes in.

In the hours leading up to the MoonWalk, nutrition is crucial and the choice of food is essentially the fuel that will sustain energy levels throughout the walk and help the body – and those aching muscles – recover afterwards.

Opt for complex carbohydrates for a slow and lasting release of energy.

Rice, pasta, and baked potatoes are all great and, when combined with lean protein such as fish or chicken, provide the ideal meal to see you through the night. Something as simple as a vegetable lasagne, fish paella or prawn pasta will work.

Whatever you do, stay away from stodge as well as hot spices which will cause sluggishness and dehydration. Choose home- cooked before ready-made as the latter tend to be high in hidden salts and sugars which will dehydrate and provide little nutritional benefit. And remember to hydrate all day and night long.

Good luck Edinburgh MoonWalkers 2009.

Peter Fleming is head chef of Hadrian's Brasserie at The Balmoral, www.thebalmoralhotel.com, 0131-556 2414.