by Mollie Millington | Nov 19, 2018 | health, product review, recovery
The biggest worry people seemed to have about my desert ultra was how I was going to stay hydrated. In actual fact, more people tend to suffer from hyponatremia during these sorts of events than dehydration. Hyponatremia happens when you drink too much water and the salts in your body reach a low concentration. I remember hearing stories of people dying from chugging water for a radio contest or when pledging a fraternity (because they were under age). Careful planning went into the food and supplements I brought with me to Jordan. I chose salty foods, like Lucky Me instant noodles and pretzels. I also brought Tailwind and nuun tablets, both of which provide electrolytes by dissolving the product in your water. Finally, I invested in salt tablets from Decathlon as an additional preventative measure.
The week before the race, I started taking the salt tablets as directed on the bottle to make sure I could stomach them and also to start off with a higher-than-normal salt concentration. I avoided drinking loads in the week leading up to the race and on the plane. Starting off my adventure with a hangover would not be wise. My plan was to space out the salt suppliments I had evenly throughout the day and hope it did the trick.
It is hard to know exactly how much salt is gained or lost during an ultra. I couldn’t really see what color my urine was nor did I have a lot of salt sweat on my skin. I was drinking 1-2 liters of water every 10k with either a serving of Tailwind or nuun. The food was pre-planned out but could be swapped if I felt thirsty or a bit off. Luckily, I did something right as I was able to maintain my body weight, muscle mass and percent body fat over the 5 days. Some people lost as much as 10kg while most lost 2-3kg. One person even gained weight (I have no idea how!). This is reflection of what they ate and drank over the entire week, not just during the running bits. One person needed an IV after day 4 and another started to exhibit signs of hyponatremia. She quit for the day after a short trip to the ambulance.
We finished the race on a Friday and spent half of Saturday on a bus and half walking around Petra in the midday sun. We also partied hard on Friday and Saturday, celebrating our crazy feat. When I got home on Sunday night, I was exhausted from the ultra, the Jordan heat, the late night parties and the early morning flight. Luckily, I had a visit from the IV Doc booked in as my last defense against my body rebelling against a tough week.
What is the IV Doc?
It is a visiting nurse service that comes to your home, work, gym, etc to administer saline in addition to detoxifying and energizing additives, such as vitamins and amino acids. When I made the appointment in August, I had to complete a short medical history questionnaire and have a screening call with the doctor. The at-home visit was eight hours after I landed from Jordan but I still sent them my flight details just in case I was delayed. The IV Doc confirmed my appointment for an antioxidant IV hydration therapy 24 hours in advance by email too so I wouldn’t forget in my jet lag haze.
My experience
My nurse, Judy, arrived at my home with a suitcase full of goodies. She had saline, liquid vitamins, syringes, and everything else needed for my treatment. She reviewed my medical history, allergies and asked how I was feeling. With my info, she said she wouldn’t be able to give me one specific solution due to my allergy to sulfa drugs but she could give me extra vitamin B with an intramuscular injection. We then called the doctor to confirm my prescription. I actually talked to him too about my allergy and current medications.
Once we got the all clear from the doctor, we set me up on the couch with Bridezillas on the television and a needle in my arm. My husband got Judy and I tea and we chatted for a while about my race, her upcoming wedding, and working for the NHS. After 30 minutes, Judy increased the drip speed as I hadn’t had any ill effects. It took just over an hour for the bag to drain entirely. The time passed quickly though as she was very easy to talk to. Before the appointment, I was wondering what the nurse does during the treatment. Judy said it depends on the person and where they are having the treatment. She said people at work tend to be more tense and formal, while home visits are relaxed.
I had read that some people get the chills during the at-home IV treatments, but I was comfortable the entire time. The needle didn’t bother me and I didn’t have to go to the bathroom during the drip. When the bag was nearly empty, Judy unhooked me, tidied everything up and took all of the waste with her. My husband and I didn’t have to worry about needles in the rubbish, which was a relief. In total, the appointment took about two and a half hours. It was wonderful to have the treatment in my home, rather than having to travel to an office after a grueling week of travel.
Who is this service for?
Judy told me that athletes use The IV Doc before and or after big competitions. Entertainers who have a long gig (such as at a festival) or two performance a day (matinee and evening) have also booked in with her. Obviously, after traveling is a popular choice, as well as after a big night out that results in a hangover. It is something that would have been a game changer during the Wadi Rum Ultra for participants who were struggling a bit (I am going to suggest it to the organizers). My treatment was designed to help me get back to a balanced state by providing immediate hydration. The solution also boosted my immune system and helped increase my oxygen delivery to improve my energy levels and fight fatigue.
The following day, I was back to work and feeling fine. I was still a little stiff but my feet were less swollen and I slept well. It was back to normal life after an incredible experience I will never forget.
Thanks to the The IV Doc for the complementary service. All opinions are honest and my own.
by Mollie Millington | Oct 25, 2018 | health, holistic, outdoors, product review
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| Urban forest |
This weekend I had the pleasure of attending Wild and Well Festival in Bristol. It offered four different themes: Move, Explore, Connect and Eat, with workshops, panel discussion, fitness classes, and demonstrations across five venues. For me, the theme of nature and being outdoors kept cropping up as I thought about my happiest moments, what calms me, and why I take on crazy fitness challenges. I also learned about the Blue Mind movement, which has sparked my interest as marine biologist, personal trainer and health coach. After the NYC Marathon, I will be reading up on these in my down time and sharing the highlights with you here on the blog and on social media (click on pink circle to the right to follow me).
It absolutely makes sense to me that being outside and connecting with nature can have healing powers. This really became clear to me after visiting Cape Town in February 2017. Two weeks in the sunshine and one week along the sea changed my outlook on life. I now know I need to be outside as much as possible, with a good dose of Vitamin Sea to be content, as well as ample sunshine. I found a sense of calm and enjoyed being alone in my thoughts while visiting South Africa. Part of this was due to a semi-digital detox without a SIM card to stay connected when away from my hotel. Think about how much time you spend each day being bombarded with emails, phone calls, text messages, meetings, and personal space invasions while on public transport. Removing technology can make a big difference in how you experience your free time.
 |
| Taking the path less traveled |
As I spent Sunday outside in the chilly sun of along Bristol’s harbor side, I realized how hard it can be for people living in cities to find ways to be in nature and/or unplugged. Available green spaces in cities might be small, with audio stimulation from traffic and visual stimulation from people walking by. Areas with water, such as rivers, streams, canals or reservoirs, are even harder to come by when landlocked. When was the last time you sat alone in the woods or a field and took in your surroundings?
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| Walking wild |
If you make an effort though to visit nature, maybe not daily, but at least once a week, (and leave the phone at home), it will help calm your body and mind. City life is overstimulating. Being alone in nature can help combat the effects. Here are some tips on how to find and enjoy the experience of nature healing:
- When you get to an open green (or blue) space, turn off any music you might be listening to and silence your phone. Listen to wind, trees and birds around you. Breathe deeply and listen to your breath.
- If you live in London, walk along the towpath in the early morning when it is least busy. Look at your surroundings rather than down in front of your feet.
- Flotation therapy, such as that offered by Floatworks in London, is where you float in super salty water in a pod which allows for sensory deprivation in a meditative state. You will experience physical and mental relief of life’s stressors that occur outside the tank. This is a great option to try if you cannot find green space or water near where you live.
- Consider a train or bus journey to the woods or coast for a day trip off the grid.
- Book an active holiday where you bike, hike, swim, run, or camp.
 |
| Capri length can be a good options in the spring and autumn |
- Dress appropriately so you enjoy the moment rather than worry about rain or temperatures. I know I can be miserable if I am too hot or too cold! The Jack Wolfskin tank show in the photos is great for warm days and for layering in the autumn. The cut is very flattering for someone who has wider hips, like me. Capri length trousers (such as the ones in the photos by Jack Wolfskin) are helpful too when the seasons are changing and you aren’t sure if the temps will be the same in the afternoon as they were in the morning. You never know what will happen so have some layering options in your bag if you can, including hat, gloves and rain jacket.
- Look at the plants and wildlife as you explore. See what you recognize and what you need to learn more about. You might want to pick up a flora or fauna guide to help you identify what you saw during your time in nature.
 |
| I love having my dog with me on my walks |
Do you ever feel the urge to be explore in green space? How do you feel when your phone is off and you are alone in your thoughts? What is your favorite part of being out in nature? Leave a comment below and let me know.
Thanks to Simply Hike for providing me with the Jack Wolfskin kit to review. All opinion are honest and my own.
by thinkmarsh | Oct 25, 2018 | health, holistic, outdoors, product review
|
| Urban forest |
This weekend I had the pleasure of attending Wild and Well Festival in Bristol. It offered four different themes: Move, Explore, Connect and Eat, with workshops, panel discussion, fitness classes, and demonstrations across five venues. For me, the theme of nature and being outdoors kept cropping up as I thought about my happiest moments, what calms me, and why I take on crazy fitness challenges. I also learned about the Blue Mind movement, which has sparked my interest as marine biologist, personal trainer and health coach. After the NYC Marathon, I will be reading up on these in my down time and sharing the highlights with you here on the blog and on social media (click on pink circle to the right to follow me).
It absolutely makes sense to me that being outside and connecting with nature can have healing powers. This really became clear to me after visiting Cape Town in February 2017. Two weeks in the sunshine and one week along the sea changed my outlook on life. I now know I need to be outside as much as possible, with a good dose of Vitamin Sea to be content, as well as ample sunshine. I found a sense of calm and enjoyed being alone in my thoughts while visiting South Africa. Part of this was due to a semi-digital detox without a SIM card to stay connected when away from my hotel. Think about how much time you spend each day being bombarded with emails, phone calls, text messages, meetings, and personal space invasions while on public transport. Removing technology can make a big difference in how you experience your free time.
|
| Taking the path less traveled |
As I spent Sunday outside in the chilly sun of along Bristol’s harbor side, I realized how hard it can be for people living in cities to find ways to be in nature and/or unplugged. Available green spaces in cities might be small, with audio stimulation from traffic and visual stimulation from people walking by. Areas with water, such as rivers, streams, canals or reservoirs, are even harder to come by when landlocked. When was the last time you sat alone in the woods or a field and took in your surroundings?
|
| Walking wild |
If you make an effort though to visit nature, maybe not daily, but at least once a week, (and leave the phone at home), it will help calm your body and mind. City life is overstimulating. Being alone in nature can help combat the effects. Here are some tips on how to find and enjoy the experience of nature healing:
- When you get to an open green (or blue) space, turn off any music you might be listening to and silence your phone. Listen to wind, trees and birds around you. Breathe deeply and listen to your breath.
- If you live in London, walk along the towpath in the early morning when it is least busy. Look at your surroundings rather than down in front of your feet.
- Flotation therapy, such as that offered by Floatworks in London, is where you float in super salty water in a pod which allows for sensory deprivation in a meditative state. You will experience physical and mental relief of life’s stressors that occur outside the tank. This is a great option to try if you cannot find green space or water near where you live.
- Consider a train or bus journey to the woods or coast for a day trip off the grid.
- Book an active holiday where you bike, hike, swim, run, or camp.
|
| Capri length can be a good options in the spring and autumn |
- Dress appropriately so you enjoy the moment rather than worry about rain or temperatures. I know I can be miserable if I am too hot or too cold! The Jack Wolfskin tank show in the photos is great for warm days and for layering in the autumn. The cut is very flattering for someone who has wider hips, like me. Capri length trousers (such as the ones in the photos by Jack Wolfskin) are helpful too when the seasons are changing and you aren’t sure if the temps will be the same in the afternoon as they were in the morning. You never know what will happen so have some layering options in your bag if you can, including hat, gloves and rain jacket.
- Look at the plants and wildlife as you explore. See what you recognize and what you need to learn more about. You might want to pick up a flora or fauna guide to help you identify what you saw during your time in nature.
|
| I love having my dog with me on my walks |
Do you ever feel the urge to be explore in green space? How do you feel when your phone is off and you are alone in your thoughts? What is your favorite part of being out in nature? Leave a comment below and let me know.
Thanks to Simply Hike for providing me with the Jack Wolfskin kit to review. All opinion are honest and my own.
by thinkmarsh | Oct 16, 2018 | health, product review, running
When you start running bigger and more challenging races, the organizers want to ensure you are in tip top shape to compete. Some countries, such as France, will ask for a doctor to sign a release form stating you are fit for each and every race you run. I had to do it for the Paris Half Marathon, which meant an appointment with my GP, taking time off work, and a £30 fee for a signature on a form.
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| Pre-race weigh in |
Wadi Rum Ultra, race 3 in my 4×4 challenge upped the ante a bit and asked for an electrocaridogram (ECG), in addition to a doctor’s note saying I was fit and healthy. The race didn’t provide an official form for the doctor to complete so I looked at what the Marathon des Sables form covered. Included was a medical history, blood pressure, resting heart rate, allergies, and current medications. I forwarded the link over to the Walk-In Clinic when they invited me in for my medical sign off.
I thought it would just be an ECG because that was included in my original
wellwomen appointment in 2017 as that is all the race asked for. Instead, I was pleasantly surprised for a full physical, ECG, and urine analysis which in total lasted just under an hour. The Walk-In Clinic have their own sports physical form which made it a bit easier to send the required info over to the race organizers.
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| Low blood pressure |
The doctor is the one I have met in my past visits (including travel vaccination) so we have already built up a bit of a rapport. She asked relevant questions about the race (how far, how long, what is the environment, how have you been preparing). We had plenty of time to discuss these answers and much more. I asked her about hydration strategies as I was still trying to figure that one out. She talked to.me about my anxiety medication and how I might experience hallucinations under these extreme conditions.
 |
| Hooked up for my ECG |
The ECG was painless although a bit of a faff to connect to all of the wires. I think I moved or took a deep breath during the first measurement because my graphs showed a bit dip. We repeated the process and my resulting ECG was normal. Hurrah!
 |
| ECG results |
The clinic receptionist offered to scan across my letter and ECG for me even though also they give me the original. The team is always helpful and efficient. I love visiting their clinic as the appointments run to time, are long enough that you don’t have to rush any conversations with the GP you see, and the customer service is superb. If you ever need something for a race (ECG, physical, travel vaccination, etc), I recommend booking in. This private practice offers more flexibility than a GP office with a central London location, next to the Gherkin.
Thanks the City Walk-In Clinic for the complementary service. All opinions are honest and my own.
by Mollie Millington | Oct 16, 2018 | health, product review, running
When you start running bigger and more challenging races, the organizers want to ensure you are in tip top shape to compete. Some countries, such as France, will ask for a doctor to sign a release form stating you are fit for each and every race you run. I had to do it for the Paris Half Marathon, which meant an appointment with my GP, taking time off work, and a £30 fee for a signature on a form.
|
| Pre-race weigh in |
Wadi Rum Ultra, race 3 in my 4×4 challenge upped the ante a bit and asked for an electrocaridogram (ECG), in addition to a doctor’s note saying I was fit and healthy. The race didn’t provide an official form for the doctor to complete so I looked at what the Marathon des Sables form covered. Included was a medical history, blood pressure, resting heart rate, allergies, and current medications. I forwarded the link over to the Walk-In Clinic when they invited me in for my medical sign off.
I thought it would just be an ECG because that was included in my original
wellwomen appointment in 2017 as that is all the race asked for. Instead, I was pleasantly surprised for a full physical, ECG, and urine analysis which in total lasted just under an hour. The Walk-In Clinic have their own sports physical form which made it a bit easier to send the required info over to the race organizers.
|
| Low blood pressure |
The doctor is the one I have met in my past visits (including travel vaccination) so we have already built up a bit of a rapport. She asked relevant questions about the race (how far, how long, what is the environment, how have you been preparing). We had plenty of time to discuss these answers and much more. I asked her about hydration strategies as I was still trying to figure that one out. She talked to.me about my anxiety medication and how I might experience hallucinations under these extreme conditions.
|
| Hooked up for my ECG |
The ECG was painless although a bit of a faff to connect to all of the wires. I think I moved or took a deep breath during the first measurement because my graphs showed a bit dip. We repeated the process and my resulting ECG was normal. Hurrah!
|
| ECG results |
The clinic receptionist offered to scan across my letter and ECG for me even though also they give me the original. The team is always helpful and efficient. I love visiting their clinic as the appointments run to time, are long enough that you don’t have to rush any conversations with the GP you see, and the customer service is superb. If you ever need something for a race (ECG, physical, travel vaccination, etc), I recommend booking in. This private practice offers more flexibility than a GP office with a central London location, next to the Gherkin.
Thanks the City Walk-In Clinic for the complementary service. All opinions are honest and my own.
by Mollie Millington | Aug 13, 2018 | eating, education, product review
Back in October, I began the first of five modules of my Future Fit Advanced Nutrition and Weight Management online course. After running the Chicago Marathon, I had a few days with my feet up recovering so I started chipping away at it.
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| Studying in my office with help from my personal assistant |
I started off with the longest module, Nutrition and Weight Management. I figured it would give me a good review of nutrition topics I had covered in my personal training course with more detail. There were 16 lessons all together in this module, each of which took 20-30 minutes to complete. For this course, I had to be online to play each lesson, which features an audio track of the text. There are knowledge checks periodically within the lesson to see if you retained key bits of information or to see if you have prior knowledge about the next topic. The information delivered so far is simply put and broken down into little chunks that were easy to digest. If I didn’t finish a lesson, it would save my place and offer me an option to resume where I had finished or to start at the beginning of the module. Before passing each lesson, you must complete a five question quiz and score 100%. You can repeat the test immediately of you missed one or two questions but if you take too long to pass, you will have to log out and back in to restart.
Each lesson also has a resource folder which includes a transcript, relevant forms, and sometimes a glossary. Any time I had a question, I could either email my tutor or submit a question through the website. Most of my questions were around the technology side of things, rather than the course material, because computers are not my forte. The Future Fit Training team were always quick to respond and very helpful.
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| No joke, this cookie is as big as my head. And when I get stressed, I eat the whole thing. |
Part of the course is a case study working with a client to help them learn more about their food habits and emotional links to eating. It was actually hard to find a volunteer that was willing to work with me for eight weeks. Through Twitter, I found two competitive male cyclists who wanted to drop some weight to improve their cycling performance. One of them was travelling a lot of work and was unable to check in with me on a regular basis. I am happy to say the other client was able to check in regularly and found the accountability very helpful. He tracked his food three to four days a week for me and started choosing fruits and vegetables over convenient processed foods. He didn’t loose any weight but he was sleeping better and feeling more energized during the day.
My tips for online study success? Give yourself deadlines to complete each lesson or modules by writing them in your diary. Think of them as exam dates that you cannot change. Set aside studying time in your diary each week too. I prefer to have the same slot every week (although that hasn’t be possible with marathon training the last two months) and keep plugging along but your schedule might be better to spend one day every other week. Set up a place to study that is free from distractions- no TV, no music, no kids (or dogs) interrupting you. You are taking this course to improve your health and knowledge, as well as to help your clients. Make it a priority. Have a notepad to take notes or print out the resource info to annotate as you go along.
Most of all, enjoy it! All of the information will help you fuel your body properly, feel energized and maintain a healthy weight that is appropriate for you. As they say, “health is wealth”.
Thanks to Future Fit Training for their support of furthering my nutritional education. All opinions are honest and my own.
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