My health could kill my camping? - Solo Tent Camping

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In this video I head out for a much needed solo camping trip. I've a few health issues and a bit of nature's healing is just what I needed. I recently went for my 50 year NHS Health Check and got a nasty shock. if I don't make some changes I could have some serious problems which could affect my life...including camping.
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[@PaulMessner]

Win a full wild camping setup here www.messner.co.uk

[@alexandergutfeldt1144]

Raffle Summary **UK ENTRIES ONLY** Fair enough, shipping is expensive!

[@lesmackay8559]

Hi Pual how do you get raffle tickets, regards Les.

[@rogerhudson9732]

As one ages it's important to get the pack weight down. I always wear a pulse band and eat lots of dried fruit. I switched from coffee to cocoa decades ago.

[@ProcyonAlpha]

Ditch the beers mate. Good luck with your health!

[@Voodoo_Ray]

I was diagnosed with high BP and diabetes when I was 50 back in 2017. At the time I weighed 174 kg. I cut out sugar, processed foods and took up walking 5km a day every day. After 7 months I had lost 50kg. In 2019 I took up running and completed the Paras 10 challenge, 2 ultra marathons, 2 marathons, 35 half marathons, 9 paras 10 events and 2 Fan Dance events. More importantly this February I was told I had reversed diabetes. At my lowest weight I was 78kg due to injury and training changes (more weights, less running) I have settled down at around 98 kg. Discipline is the key. See you on the hill maybe . Don’t give up.

[@totomesch1940]

Well done mate.

[@Voodoo_Ray]

@@totomesch1940 thanks . Diet or die was a powerful motivational tool 🤣

[@eyemonster12]

Bloody hell! 💪💪💪

[@LoremIpsum1970]

Nice one. I yoyoed thanks to lockdown, and back to square one. I was 5'8" 130kg some years ago, I cut out sugary drinks and started walking 5km home from work rain or shine and in 8 months was down to 95kg. For me diets don't work, it's got to be a lifestyle change...but you don't have to be excessive, just consistent. So, here goes on round two...

[@Voodoo_Ray]

@@LoremIpsum1970 funny you should say that I’ve ended up back at around 105 kg due to recurring issues with injuries. Broken ankle early 21 then Xmas I broke my patella got sorted and back fit for the Fan Dance in 22 then when 2023 came around I fractured my heel bone in the May, here we are in 2024 and it’s still not good 🤬 To be fair though I am nearly 60 and can still run a loaded (20kg) 5 km in under 45 minutes, I just can’t walk for a week afterwards 🤣. Good luck with the fitness. You got this 👌

[@andrewjohnston9115]

Interestingly enough, I had a health check a couple of months ago, blood pressure high, blood sugers high approaching diabetes, so I decided it was time to get on top of it. Bought a blood pressure monitor and a blood sugar level kit, stopped taking statins (apparently a common side effect is raised blood sugars), went on a zero carb diet, and 2 months in having lost a stone and a half, blood sugars back to normal, blood pressure completely normal - the key is to lose weight which is a pain but worth it I reckon. I do black coffee, drink cognac and rum reasonably sparingly, take the dogs for plenty of walks. You'll be fine as long as you lose a few pounds.

[@SteveeCee]

Yep, those carbs in our 'western diet' is killing us. Dr. Ken Berry on YT will give the data on it.

[@CheekyChap]

Type 2 Diabetes is caused by saturated fats, (sugar is not the "cause") neither is carbs, high blood pressure and high cholesterol is caused by eating animal products. Avoiding sugar and carbs while eating dairy eggs and meat will not reverse any of those conditions, losing weight certainly helps initially but long term your setting yourself up to a premature death, this is common knowledge with studies on the subject, even diabetes UK states this on there website, Your advice is extremely dangerous

[@CheekyChap]

​@@awmcmanusExcept it's not..

[@AJ_Alive]

@@CheekyChapyou are deluded. Keto and carnivore will stop diabetes easily. Sugar is the devil and that includes carbs from vegetables.

[@bretthannan32]

@@CheekyChap "Avoiding sugar and carbs while eating dairy eggs and meat will not reverse any of those conditions" It did for me. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and arthritis all gone from not eating sugar, simple carbs and processed foods. Im in better health in my 50s than I was in my 40s.

[@stevereilly]

I was also in benefit of a wake up call. I lost 20kg, reversed diabetes. For me walking which you do a lot already, and intermittent fasting worked well. Cut out carbs. Those Pepsi max, the aspartame or sweeter impacts your body, it reacts like sugar, avoid. I gave up alcohol 300 days ago, this helped. Its not easy but the fasting made things really easy. Good luck and great video as ever...

[@OFFICIAL_DSR]

Well done man, n good luck 🤞

[@chapman9230]

Hi Paul, this is a timely warning. It is great that your blood sugar is ok at present. However, take this as a warning to take the steps now to make sure that it remains that way. I find that I cannot stop at one of anything and it is simpler to just remove it completely. I think of alcohol as liquid sugar. So those tins of lager have to go! Reduce your carbs to loose the weight. Do it as a family. All will benefit . It will also mean that you will be able to keep doing what you are doing far longer. Good for you and good for us. Keep it up! You will get there.

[@gymbobjoe1091]

*Hard truth time* As a Royal Marines physical training instructor. It's simple. You really need to sort your terrible diet out. It's clear that's the problem. You appear to get out and move but clearly you put more in to your body than you expend. Reduce that. Reduce your weight. Get healthy. All it takes is some will power. Oh and stopping camping will only make it worse if you don't change your diet. Please for you and all our sakes DON'T STOP CAMPING.

[@platypusbilledduck]

Didn't he literally say he was doing just that?

[@Davidonezero]

your right. All of us need some hard truths. Seems tricky for some to take in this day and age. The benefits are worth the sacrifices

[@platypusbilledduck]

​@@strickostrickoA lot of judgemental assumptions there lad...

[@dougieranger]

Tough love.

[@StevenKeery]

Paul: That might be a great idea for a video, having you go camping with Gymbobjo and for him to show you how the marines would do it. I don't watch as many camping and bushcraft videos, on a regular basis, as I did before. McQ Bushcraft was excellent but then he emigrated to Sweden. I still watch, 'Simon a bloke in the Woods,' he does a mixture of bushcraft, canoeing and camping videos, in different sorts of terrain, so that adds a great deal of variety. He also cooks great meals outdoors. Clare at 'Wild Beare Camping, ' is also worth a watch. She always smiles, no matter what the weather is like. Most of her videos seem centred around Snowdonia. She has uploaded videos with her wearing a Ghillie Suit and dressed as a Bunny Rabbit. Mad as a box of frogs but I can't help but like her positive attitude to Life. I used to watch a few from foreign countries. Although they claimed they were camping solo, they were preparing and cooking enough food to feed four people. I got the idea a camera crew were tagging along. A guy called Steve Wyatt does canoeing videos combined with camping and Jo might like that as there is not so much hill walking involved. I like these chatty videos and would like to see you revisit old equipment you have personally used in the past, to compare it with what you use now. Lastly, I have never seen so many adverts attached to one video as this one. At times, it felt like you were the commercial break between the adverts. Good luck with the change in diet, it isn't easy.

[@WainwrightWalksWiaLocalLad]

This isn't meant to be negative Paul... but exercising a bit of portion control might be a good idea! I wouldn't eat that amount after a 25 mile run over hills in the Lakes! Good luck with the lifestyle changes.... we're not here for a long time, make sure you're here for as long as possible!👍

[@batwithglasses]

As well as laying on your side in a tent and eating that amount..

[@krølle-1]

its fine. hardly any calories in the food choices on that pan. it's not the size, but how many calories.

[@Witteringtrucker]

Hey Paul. Ive suffered from mental health issues for the past few years. As a result, i gave up on myself and my health. My blood pressure was regularly in the region of 195 over 110. Thats bad. Id piled a lot of weight on and quit. After an incident, i made the decision to get back on track. Ive lost several stone in weight and blood pressure is ckmkng down. I feel so much better now. More energy etc. Stick with it anc yojll get back on track.

[@sheer64]

Hi Paul, I know you will get a lot of advice here. I have suffered from high blood pressure a lot of my adult life. A couple of things to take into account are, sweeteners can be worse than sugar, depending on which one and if it is made in a laboratory. Stevia is good in its natural form, but a lot of what you buy is not natural. Also Low Fat can be very deceiving because they add heaps of sugar so people will consume it. Personally I stay away from soda and try and drink water. I use Monk Fruit as as a sweetener in my coffee and tea, as I dont like the after taste of Stevia. But everyone is different.

[@ianbarry7990]

I've given up sweetners and diet drinks as well. I now use honey if I want to sweeten something up.

[@iainwoodside6664]

Great advice also if something says its healthy its probably not

[@andrewjohnston9115]

Water is absolutely your friend, keeps you hydrated and also helps you feel full, though I did read somewhere that excessive water consumption isn't great.

[@ramblingimbecile2295]

I can't stand artificial sweeteners. I just got used to drinking tea and coffee without sugar although I'll always put a bit of sugar in cheap coffee

[@MontyOutdoors]

Paul, best advice I can give is read up on Chris Van Tulleken's "Ultra Processed People". Systematic reviews are showing that ultra processed foods are pretty much killing us and are linked with: obesity, high blood pressure, cancer, depression, heart attacks... before my recent depressive episode, I switched from a 90% UPF diet to a 85% non UPF for 2 months and lost a stone and was mentally/phsyically in a better place. It's a game changed for looking after yourself and works similar to Alan Carr's book about quitting smoking.

[@Fellmandave1]

good on ya Monty

[@aravr_project]

My health has killed my camping. Just in the last few years blood pressure has gone through the roof (normally low), developed diabetes, osteoarthritis is becoming debilitating.... I live camping life vicariously through you Paul. Keep it up.

[@PaulMessner]

Hopefully I can turn things around a bit. Thanks

[@jasonbarrett4646]

Hi mate. Just saw your vid. I've been battling cancer for a couple of years now and whilst I've made all sorts of dietry changes (caffene and alcohol included) it hasnt stopped me walking, cycling or wild camping. Absolutely make the changes and keeping looking after yourself. Theres some really decent alcohol free beer and decaff coffee if you shop around. Heres to many more trips mate!

[@bigdawg4003]

Currently awaiting a scan on my liver myself. Wishing you all the best bud.

[@jasonbarrett4646]

And to you mate. Please let me know how you get on.

[@PaulMessner]

Thanks mate. Keep on with the battle and Mother Nature will help out in her way.

[@bgilgall]

Paul, your BP is easily affected by stress and worry, no surprise there and explains partially why your first BP reading was so high, you'd rushed home, opened the BP meter and tried it right away. No great surprise it was high. More concerning is the reading you got in the morning after you had rested 153/105. The first reading is your systolic, the blood pressure when your heart is pumoing, the second reading is the diastolic reading (105) when your heart is not pumping blood. That 105 is high considering you had just been asleep. When you camp you eat a lot of pre-packaged food that are high in salt (sodium), they are really bad for BP. Learn to read the food labels on the back of everything you want to buy or eat. If you want to get your BP down to normal levels. you'll need to lose some weight. You're not a fat guy by any means but like many of us, you're carrying that extra 10-20 LBS, that's all it needs to tip you over the edge into high blood pressure. Reduce carbs but do not eliminate them, we still need some, more protein and even fat. Cut out the processed food, the chippys and the carry outs (once or twice a month won't hurt) and cut the beer consumption to a couple of pints once or twice a month. You're a fit guy with all the hiking you do, so combine the changes to your food intake with your love for the outdoors. You'll shed that extra weight, drop the BP and feel better with more energy. Most of all remember, you have not received a death sentence, at worst you've been given a warning, do not panic about this just take the steps needed to put it behind you. All the best Paul and more power to you.

[@LiLBitsDK]

yeah better sit down (in the morning) BEFORE coffee... sit for 10-15min chilling... then take the test 3x with a few min between... no talking/moving while taking the test... take it again in the evening BEFORE dinner, same drill sit still for 10-15min... do that 3 days in a row to get a good idea of where it is with a nice morning/evening average... then after that I usually do once a week or ever 14 days... to keep an eye... already dropped one of my BP pills since my BP is dropping again, hope to get it back to normal when done with this weightloss

[@dazday40]

Great advice/comment

[@desirefusion532]

This is exactly what he needs to see, some of his packing videos he's loaded with chocolate bars and sweets which is obviously having a massive effect. Very well written comment 👏

[@natcain]

Obsessed about measuring BP for my dad (post stroke). The positioning of that band changes the reading a lot and whether the arm is resting on a desk etc. It's an art form to get the best result possible!

[@themoodyteam]

@@natcainthat’s why you go for the x3 average. But, you are right it is a pain.

[@BaldFoodieGuy]

Cheers Paul, sorry to hear about the check up, makes me think I need one. What a kind thing to say mate. You made me smile pal 😊 I would be honoured to go camping with you. Thanks again and all the very best 👌 Gareth.

[@PaulMessner]

Cheers mate. Your videos are such a simple format yet brilliant to watch. Look forward to catching up round the tents 👍🏻

[@BaldFoodieGuy]

@PaulMessner cheers Paul thank you mate. Look forward to it. 👍

[@Nickydo111]

I’m glad you shared your health scare, I felt like i was the only one who had high blood pressure after i left my GP on Monday. I’m not overweight, walk miles a day and eat healthy. My BP was 145 over 90. MY vice is alcohol. Bought a blood pressure monitor and have decided to completely stop drinking. My GP said that was probably why mine is high. Much love mate.

[@pmh9966]

My BP was through the roof when i was drinking. Now normal

[@LiLBitsDK]

was 188/120 here... found out the hard way with ambo ride to the hospital... now surfing around 118/74 and feeling way better... took a weightloss of 30kg to get there... 30kg more to go...

[@PaulMessner]

I’ve learned that we are never the only ones, neither are we alone. So many people to support and help us.

[@LiLBitsDK]

@@PaulMessneryou have heaps of people that will gladly help and support you :D

[@reformationfan]

Hi Paul, take care of yourself. In April 2018 I was diagnosed with diabetes - just barely A1C 6.5. I was within 30 minutes of taking meds and went a different route. Got on a low carb diet and in September 2018 my A1C was 4.7 and dropped around 25 LBS, 200 to 175. My weight has since creeped up to around 180 (diet not as strict, actually not strict at all) with an A1C of 5.7, need to lose a few but better than meds. Look into reducing the carbs, it’s doable and well worth it. Be well and continue to share your adventures. The Lord bless you.

[@ike8236]

Gday Paul, Paul here. I'm 44 now and when i was 33 I had a cardiac arrest also have developed crohn's disease, used to be super fit but since then my heart won't let me hike etc but you just got to change things up. I'm now restricted to car camping and i do get out pretty remote areas still in my 4wheel drive. Just take your time to work out the health issues and do what you can to work around them, don't give up on the camping.

[@thomasskinner240]

These longer form "podcasty" videos you are going are my favourite. Hopefully enough people agree with me so you keep them coming.

[@juliankerrell7281]

Paul, I think it's a great idea to start talking about men's health as it's seldom talked about. Not just healthy eating but stress and anxiety. Well done keep up the great work. Ps i use a svea123r white gas stove and love it but as you said it's not for everyone. ❤

[@davidrawlings3460]

Meant a lot to me this one. I am diabetic as it runs in my family. But hearing things from someone I admire and watch most weeks helps people realise how important health checks are. I have just lost my brother at 48, made me realise you only get one life so live it and cherish it.

[@PaulMessner]

Sorry to hear that David. I hopefully can encourage a few people like myself that tend to ignore things like health checks.

[@worstuserever]

Hi Paul, I really like the longer videos, you have a truly engaging unguarded conversational style. I hope they continue and work out for you. By the way, I was at Wembley with a mate cheering ourselves hoarse while you were filming this. Now I'm in a tent in the Lake District watching you in yours. 🙃

[@AlanMETALMAN]

You are right about taking our health for granted and I remember my 40th birthday getting a health check and being told my blood pressure was 216/116 - 28 years later I am still here but been on BP tablets ever since. I give thanks for every day and every time I get to the summit of a Fell, cheers Alan

[@davewood9888]

Crikey that’s was a high reading you had!

[@AlanMETALMAN]

@@davewood9888 - yep and I think it must have gone up another few points when I heard it 🫣

[@hunterkl6]

I'm 27 and had a health scare last year. Weighed 28 stone (mainly from being 6'7 and an avid weight lifter, plus leg swelling from a DVT at age 21) had a feeling something wasn't right so went for a mens health check and they found my liver function wasn't right with high ALT but normal AST, plus elevated Bilirubin (Turned out to be something called Gilbert's Syndrome). Went for an ultrasound and they found I had a fatty liver. Was scared stiff at the time that I might of had Cirrhosis (Still keep thinking it everynow and then and get panic attacks), but they said highly unlikely at my age and that I would more than likely had other symptoms with it. So had to cut out the bad foods and then figure out how to lose 10% of my body weight. Funnily enough, thats how I took up hiking. Started off building up strength in my legs because my left leg is permanently knackered from my DVT, and ended up walking about the Peak District quite a bit and then got retested in February and my Liver Function has reversed and is back to normal and over 5 months I ended up losing 4 1/2 stone.

[@msquaredmedia8717]

My dad has Gilbert's syndrome. I'm glad that you were proactive when something didn't seem right and then putting all the right actions in to get the best result!! Fantastic

[@cherryrotella3714]

The positivity is that it’s under your control to improve your situation 🙂 so I wish you well Paul 👍

[@FALLIN_DOON]

Mate, I shouldn't be doing what I'm doing, it always amazes me just how far you can push your body when you're given an ultimatum. Keep safe, love to the family

[@PaulMessner]

Cheers Alan. I’ve made a few changes already so hopefully that helps me improve my health and fitness

[@adejames1960]

Sometimes you have to adapt with your health. I have long covid, which has really limited me from pitching up etc. ..but just to park up somewhere, and walk around the countryside and get the camping stove out, have a brew and a mre etc. still does the trick and keeps me sane. The most important thing is to listen ro what your body tells you.

[@kevintremblay1211]

Lost my dad when he was 56 from high blood pressure / Heart attack. Since that time I go yearly for my checkup want to be around as long as I can for my Son who is now 23. Health is hard to get back when it gets out of hand. Take care of yourself so you will be around for a long time for the wife.

[@TommyRazzle69]

Same. My mum was 50. So I do all I can to offset that. Eat well, gym etc. never smoked luckily, and I stopped drinking two months ago. Just turned 51.

[@edasmall]

Get yourself a blood pressure mashine, not that expensive these days. Good for piece of mind and if it stays over a few days you contact your GP. Better than waiting a year.

[@cuprajake1]

Going through the exact same thing with diabetes, and blood pressure.40yr old healthly life style, don't drink, smoke, live off water. Veggie and turns out my sugar was double what it should be at 87, two weeks later and a low carb diet second bloods have gone down to 77, diet can be key

[@pootlingalong8928]

Love these tent talk videos and the cooking sideways-style 😂 You are doing great - glad your health is in hand and Jo is doing well with her painting. Look forward to more videos - you have a knack of coming across as the bloke next door 👍🏻

[@summitupmark5615]

Oh - and we love the grey mug too - you have to have variety in life Paul! 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@Skiddastreets]

LOVE THE longer episodes with the chit chat section! Reminds me of your good friend Tony over at AB Camping! Brilliant episode. I feel it’s great that you spoke about the health side of things, sometimes all it takes is kind words like that to give someone the kick they need to go to the GP/Doctors ETC. all the best, stay healthy buddy! X

[@PaulMessner]

2 years ago nobody would never have even known I'd seen a Dr. I'm much more open now about personal things but I hope that it helps other people to get through similar experiences.

[@Dore60]

Look after yourself Paul, hope to see on the moors around the Peak District at somepoint 👍

[@wildcamper1967]

Watching your videos along with Liam Browns helped me get back into wild camp. So keep up the good work at making more videos, would love to know how Liam can afford travelling all across Europe doing it. All the best Darren

[@markkeohane9850]

For your health, watch Sten Ekberg. I've never seen him go camping but he talks a lot of sense about how your body works, what to eat and what to avoid. Changed my life (for the better) anyway. I've had my chest open with surgeons' hands inside twice now; first time to repair a dissected aorta; second to do it all again 5 years later when the first repair got infected. So I get 'taking health for granted' and - having flirted with death - the value of living as long and enjoyably as possible. Good luck.

[@andycoombes161]

Hi Paul, great watch and good that you are raising awareness. Keep the faith and invest time and effort in YOURSELF. I had big health problems 10 years back. Woke up wracked with pain and totally fatigued. I was prescribed lots of medication and strong painkillers etc. I knew that wasn't a long term option as I was only in my mid 40s. It took me about 8 years to sort things out through diet. I cut out the inflammatory foods and ate more of the ani inflammatory foods. Today I'm out walking daily with a 20kg pack and better still have cut out every last medication. Diet and exercise is the key. Invest in YOU

[@davidjackson8829]

Just seen Jo’s paintings. Love them. She is really talented!!! Look after yourself Paul. You are an inspiration for many of us.

[@darrinpodmore3399]

Another great video Paul just making a few little changes can make a big difference to your health ,the biggest one for me though was to ditch the booze for good ,my blood pressure got on the straight and narrow in just a few months it was hard though ,all the very best and stay safe 👍

[@GordonStocks]

Thanks Paul, Your video has given me the decision to think more carefully about health issues, I’m 70 yo and want to continue my camping and outdoors lifestyle for many years to come, Cheers

[@joywhitmore7729]

Thanks for a great vid Paul. I work in hospitals and I am avid lover of the outdoors. And I see a lot of people cut short in their prime and that quote about two lives is very true. We only have the one. Amazing content as always. Would be lovely to see Jo!! 😊

[@DNZ21_]

The Max Power era, what a time to be alive

[@jacksonbollocks]

Cutting down on junk food and limiting sugary drinks like Pepsi and Coke can significantly help lower your blood pressure. Incorporating more fruits, vegetables, into your routine will make a positive difference.

[@garybenning1771]

Pepsi and coke are not sugary drinks.... They're artificially sweetened and are toxic, as are most soft drinks here in the uk nowadays... You'd be amazed how difficult it is to find soft drinks sweetened with sugar anymore.... Try it if you don't believe me.

[@eyemonster12]

Shit ton of beetroot, that’s my advice! My blood pressure went rocketing after c*v*d jab, wreaked havoc with existing migraine condition. I read a lot of bumf to see what I could do (I don’t drink or smoke, veggie of 20+ years) and I came away with beetroot, bananas and meditation 🙄 I can only tolerate one of those things. 🍌

[@georgetaylor5767]

Paul, I wish you all the very best from here on...work together with Mrs M on the healthy eating, you cant beat team work. I do love this video, talking and letting lots of things come out. Ultimately getting out in the fresh air in our countryside does wonders... All the very best best all

[@leemacgregor]

Paul its cool im on BP tabs and chorlestral but no worries, a lot of people have it, dont forget it can be Heraditry as well, the walking you do is amazing !

[@garybenning1771]

But remember, tablets don't correct the cause of the problem, something doctors should be focusing on, root cause analysis, correct the cause and symptoms usually go away.... But of course there's no profit from cause correction!

[@yvettewilliamselliott8851]

Thank you very much for raising the issue of men’s health. My husband was found to have VERY high blood pressure 10 years ago at a health check required by his employer - the works doctor would only let him leave the office if he promised to go straight home and make an urgent appointment with his GP. We had no idea there was a problem, but he was at very high risk of a stroke. He has changed his diet and has to take medication too, but BP is under control. I could have lost him 😢. I wish you all success in making the modifications you need to make, which will hopefully lead to many more happy years of walking and camping.

[@Prince_Buster]

Paul that was just brilliant, no doubt you had a major shock, yet reality is what you discussed. I suffered a heart attack while up the mountain, my work life, home life and trying to push myself in my training finally took its toll. I don't, drink, smoke or do drugs, wasn't overweight yet shit happens. That was 5 years ago at the age of 47, however one word stood out for me from Cardiologist and their team "moderation". Sometimes we take our body and mental health for granted, it took me over 4 years to accept my illness and yet I felt a failure. Your videos have inspired me so heed the warnings and keep the important areas of your life into perspective, you have too much to lose mate. Stay strong, you have a wonderful family and network behind you.

[@T0myTune]

You're one of the best Paul Messner! You share important information from many perspectives. That is VERY useful for us watching reviews, so thank you for that! I appreciate your videos a lot. All the best, brother.

[@OfWodensFolk]

At 46, I've got arthritis in both big toes (Worst pain!), two knackered knees from my footballing days, a damaged shoulder through injury at work and never slowed down with it. Carrying a bit too much timber but can still do a 20 mile walk. Its why I asked you in a previous video the weight you were carrying mate! I've decided to spend some proper money on upgrading my gear and getting it as light as possible as I'm not letting "Structural" damage stop me hiking and camping. I resisted surgical intervention and will continue too until I literally can't walk. Age creeps up on us and like you said, we think we can shove anything down our throats and take on the world but the shite we eat these days, probably shouldn't be fed to a dog let alone a human being but that's another story.

[@frosty_soda]

I go rucking regularly and often pay a lot of attention to each step made. I've went from aches and pains to able to walk with 16kg on my back for 1+ hr over steep hills. Look into rucking. Strength and agility and flexibility is a big deal. I don't have arthritis and I feel for you, but I've the usual age related knocks from Thaiboxing and running for a long time.

[@JRoss707]

At 58 I’m in similar shape, arthritis in my joints, sore feet knees and shoulders. But I try to get out every summer for at least 100 miles or better on the John Muir Trail. It can be agonizing at times, but at the same time, very rewarding. My main goal is keep my pack weight below 34lbs (15.5kg) and trekking poles are a must.

[@easternmenace]

Before spending much money think about what you don't need to take. The lightest gear is the one you leave at home. Obviously some things do need to be changed if you want to lower weight though.

[@OfWodensFolk]

@@easternmenace Aye mate. Obviously the weight I'm carrying transfers straight down through my feet where the damage is so just a couple of changes. My sleeping bag weights 2.25kg! So treating myself to a proper down quilt bag that weighs half of that. I'm using an OEX Jackal II at the moment as I upgraded from the Bobcat but might get something like one of the MSR 2 man tents.

[@frosty_soda]

Look at a Nordisk Telemark 2.2 LW. These things weigh 1kg! Great tent. 3 seasons, so you're limited with location on windy/bad weather days. @@OfWodensFolk

[@jammydodger1449]

Good man looking after your health and raising awareness for other blokes

[@roarsoundsmusicpromoandboo9949]

Just wanted to say that I really enjoy your channel and watch your videos regularly. Watching from far away in Tasmania Australia. 🇦🇺 look after your health mate. Looking forward to watching many more of your fantastic content. Truly enjoying and inspiring. Cheers Alastair from Tassie.

[@thedaftestnameicouldthinko8233]

Did you have a second meths stove ready to use if the first didn’t have enough fuel in it? That is such a good idea. They’re so light, taking two is no problem. I should have thought of that. Good luck with your health issues. Eating plants is the way forward and, believe it or not, you can get to enjoy them a lot. You and Dave are both right about that stove. For you, it’s more fiddly than the stoves you prefer. For Dave, it’s less fiddly than the stoves he’s used in the past.

[@PaulMessner]

Yes I did. They weigh nothing and it gives you options

[@bigglestheflyboy]

Hi Paul. You asked us to comment about your vlogs, and from my point of view, I like the direct camping videos that address camping as a whole and the bits and pieces that go with it. But I'm not a fan of the general chat vlogs. One aspect of camping hat I would really like to see adddressed is a vlog focussing on sleep quality, and how to get the best. In my own camping experience, I have found it very difficult to get a good night's sleep. As I get older, it becomes more and more difficult to get a good night's sleep. So what is the best thing I can do to improve sleep quality?

[@PaulMessner]

Thanks for the feedback. As for sleep it’s a tough one. Most people suffer as it’s a big chance from your usual sleeping pattern. I only really sleep well when I’ve put a big day of miles in.

[@davids9549]

Sorry Paul, but a bit of sugar and caffeine aren't going to hurt you anything like as much as those cans of ale at your side in the tent vestibule. Ditch them - it'll lighten your pack too! And 6 cans of Pepsi Max in a single morning? Come on, man. Just embrace a sensible diet, get a bit of regular exercise, cut out any excessive stresses in your life as far as possible, and you'll be just fine, I promise you. It happens to us all in the end - we get to an age where we can't get away with abusing our bodies like we used to, and we can choose to ignore that fact (at our peril), or we can make the reasonable adjustments our bodies are demanding. I hope you do the latter and continue to enjoy the hills with us for many years to come.

[@matthewwall3319]

Oh man. I feel your pain. Same boat here, im 47, had the tests 4weeks ago. Extrmely high blood pressue (184/119 today), low folic acid,very low vit d, aswell as depression and high stress. Had to go to drs today as they wanted to up my meds and gige me other tablets. Lucky no sign of diabetes, have to keep an eye on liver though. Dr also said if i get dizzy,hewdaches and pains the to go to AE asap.😮 def a wake up call for me. Been worried n stressed all day,only just calmed down

[@truth121]

The big question Paul?? Did you take the 💉💉??

[@matthill1803]

Loved this one Paul! I was having a glass of wine and was great having a chat. Similar age, similar build, similar cars bitd, similar health issues! 😂 We got this! 👍

[@teegee1622]

dont do the no sugar soft drinks if they have aspartame as the sweetener its worse for you than sugar.

[@SteveeCee]

Hey Paul, one of my biggest regrets was selling my late father in law's mint Escort RS Turbo a few years back. Should've kept it, I know!! Don't fret about yer metabolism issues, you have the strength and determination to change things!! Keto rocks, Carni can be cooking!

[@jh9911]

Meat only diet will get you back in no time.

[@adrianlw2750]

@jh9911 - spot on👍🙂

[@timherlihy5785]

Hi Paul.. I get a bit anxious when going for checkups 😅, and my blood pressure readings were high at the latest visit. So Dr put me down for one of the 24hr monitors. So, I got the call to be fitted with 24hr monitor 3 weeks later, and the nurse took an initial reading ... still high. Arrived back to docs the next day, and they had a look at the readings .. all normal except for when i was coming or going to the drs. Turns out, I've white coat syndrome.. apparently its a real thing. Something to consider. In the weeks waiting for the monitor, i took a few readings with a home monitor i purchased, and they were high cause i was getting myself worked up. Sorry for the long-winded comment, good luck.

[@Old-Sole]

Give up alcohol completely it serves no useful purpose.

[@davidjackson8829]

Ooh I don’t think so. It’s a pleasure

[@gazza1858]

A cold beer & a hot day go hand in hand .

[@gazza1858]

@@batwithglasses I understand that but I know that one or two beers wouldn’t hurt the problem starts if you absolutely hammered it day in day out same with sugary content.

[@edwardstroud8245]

@@batwithglassesI do mate. Absolutely nothing wrong with the odd beer.

[@edwardstroud8245]

Haha “hopefully I can improve my health a bit…” as the beer goes down. Made me laugh that

[@simonlambourn5896]

Good luck with your health Paul. If there's one certainty, your health will be better if you stay active and doing what you love, than if you stick indoors all the time. And I hope you will continue to do the shorter videos as well as the hour-long ones. I love your videos and have learned loads from them - they have inspired me to get out there - but I just don't have an hour to spend watching a video. All the best.

[@PaulMessner]

The shorter ones will go on the Extra channel. Think the long videos are here to stay for a while I’m afraid. Thanks for sticking around so far

[@_6079SMITH]

"Nasty sugar" but even nastier Aspartame. 6 cans of Pepsi Max ? That stuff is poison man.🙏

[@awareimawolf]

I love the bit about "you can only pick the right kit for you" so true!

[@TheTrailDancer]

Health first my friend... simple life changes can do big things.. :) At least you're exercising!!! Sending positive thoughts

[@grol094]

Good on you Paul, for putting the info out there. And - all the best with your health journey ongoing. Nice recap on the comment reply. Great balanced comments Paul

[@suejohns7757]

You are a natural broadcaster- always enjoy your videos

[@erinhenry9750]

Luv u Paul remember gotta keep camping and doing what you enjoy to escape the stress along with some dietary changes ull be fine 🙏❤from Michigan

[@MichaelAndersen_DK]

Respect for going to the doc and being honest about your reservations about it. More men should follow your example. All the best!

[@PierreFarrugia]

Thanks for commenting about this, I have high blood pressure too. And you rang a bell in my head, altough started diet and walking everyday, will start monitoring my blood pressure too ❤

[@Roblovesbushcraft]

A cracking video Paul, love your honesty. Most men just front it out as some sort of false machismo not wanting to know, you did the right thing and now you can alter your choices to get your health in order. I had the Southern cross 2, it was a cracking shelter but found it was woefully lacking in interior space to fit my wife and I. We replaced with the Durston x mid 2 and that is a game changer with regards to space and comfort. I love the little frying pan, what make and model is it please I may have to treat myself. Keep up the great work, this vid, may just have saved a few lives indirectly 😊

[@PaulMessner]

I’m not sure of the model but it’s a GSi 8inch pan.

[@Roblovesbushcraft]

@@PaulMessner Thankyou Paul

[@johanvanbeek7138]

Paul I've had high blood pressure since my thirties I'm 56 now and have two different blood pressure pills. I drink normal tea have two coffees a day and the odd energy drink. You'll be fine mate.

[@GarryCollins-ec8yo]

I was in the same boat. Meds knocked down my blood pressure and cholesterol. I try to backpack (Wild camp) twice a month in the Virginia and West Virginia mountains. I go 5 to 15 miles a day so I think you’ve got a long wild camping career ahead of you.

[@arandompersonp9883]

Thanks!

[@PaulMessner]

Thanks so much for this 😍

[@SteveWebb]

Nice vid Paul. My only comment would be that the dinner was errrr a fair bit for one person. I have problems with portion management myself but I've slowly been cutting back and I don't feel the need for the extra large portions now 😊

[@RobDekkers]

Good to hear your health is in control Paul! To answer your question: I love the (longer) chat moments in your current videos, it makes it a lot more personal. 👍🏻

[@RabJ123]

Your message is powerful Paul and no doubt reaches so many who may otherwise be unaware or ignoring the reality. I too am on a similar health journey and your experience has given me an extra nudge to double my efforts. I am about to re-visit the joys of wild camping and navigating the hill and moors of the UK. I've not done it for years but it's such a tonic in this crazy world and it's a component of my second life. Good luck to you and thank you for speaking so openly.

[@SnowyAspenHills]

Good candle side chat. Food for thought with this video.

[@soletrail]

Really enjoying the longer videos Paul. Like that chatten and we get to see another side of you. Great stuff. Looking forwaqrd to watching your healthy Journey. You will begin to love tea on the trail. An ole rich tea biscuit is always good.

[@GauguinLyon]

It's an especially lovely option at this time of year, with the trees donning their autumnal raiment.

[@johnhall3877]

Love the chat Paul, keep up the videos and stay healthy

[@adventurousdavee]

used to have a few old minis , one you could see the ground when you looked down through the floor 😂😂. The MOT man wasn’t to pleased when he got a mouthful of rust when underneath it with a mallet 😂.

[@jtoutdoors9888]

Enjoying the long chats and watched the last two in full. Not always about views this time of year and just sometimes about spending time alone contemplating life in the best free shrinks place....alone in nature.

[@OneReferralAway]

Bananas are the number one no regarding sugar. No pineapple or bananas! Just trying to help Paul 😊

[@KevinSmith-wr1sy]

Take good care of yourself mate. We look forward to many many more years of your wild camping adventures.!

[@SolarEclips86]

Hey big fan from the u.s I just wanted to say I'm proud of you for doing what is best for you to keep camping, that takes a lot of inside power to make happen so keep it up bud you got this.😊

[@HywelOwen]

Get well soon! Love your videos mate.

[@samwhite7197]

Nice one Paul, well done for going for your check (and making a vid about it). Sad to hear that so many of us don't - they're not nasty, old-school teachers, trying to find a reason to tell us off for our lifestyle - just professionals helping us live the best version of the second half of our life.

[@keithhunter5283]

Hi Paul, I think the chatty aspect is better. The whole walk by thing, has been done to death and does my head in lol. I do like gear reviews especially the more affordable gear that most could buy for starting out. I hope you're health issues all work out for the best.

[@scotsnomad7395]

Interesting one this. I haven’t been out since summer solstice last year. Bit of a niggle with leg pain, also recurring neck and back pain. Unfortunately what I was prescribed for this had the side effect of suffering heat stroke in the warmer weather , also breathlessness when exercising, as a result I’m in the house and put on LOTS of weight. Fitness levels dropped dramatically, and as a result of not getting back out camping this year, a negative impact on mental well being. The weight gain leading to more health issues. Can’t wait to get back out there … I still watch lots of camping stuff on KZbin to keep the flame lit… Really enjoy your filming Mr Messner… Thank you again 👍

[@johncrawford2304]

Many thanks Paul. I watched this video when you released it. Bought a blood pressure monitor, I was reading high. Since your video I have been to doctors nurses and the hospital and I begin meds next week Forever grateful to you and your video. I don’t think it’s too far to say your video saved a life ! Probably more. I’m not reading all the comments 😊 Thank You

[@Dreyno]

I was diagnosed with high bp at age 36. Was playing football twice a week and wasn’t much overweight. I quit smoking and it didn’t help. Put on medication. Covid pandemic ended my footballing days and I put on weight. Now on 3 different bp tablets a day. Consultant told me “some people just have it”. I know it was better when I carried less weight. Need to shed a few kg and get back into whatever sport is appropriate for mid-40s+ because no amount of walking does what an hour of football/tennis etc. does. Chin(s😉) up and keep doing what you love. Your bp won’t be helped by not spending time up on the hills.

[@juliagoatly5857]

Over the pandemic we scattered the ashes of our dear friend over Stanage Edge. There was a gust of wind and we were showered (and probably the climbers below too). He was a great outdoor enthusiast, climber and worked with kids at our local climbing wall. He was a kind and loving soul and will be dearly missed. Too young to die of a heart attack. Please manage your health and stick around. ❤

[@sarahsue42]

Big Lebowski

[@ianbarry7990]

Your friend s probably having a good laugh with my parents who we scattered around Stannidge edge. Who knows there may be a community up there. A nice thought.

[@roytomkinson9350]

Paul great stuff mate ...loved the chats ,keep them coming ,stay healthy ....

[@nealodonnell620]

Just over 12 months ago, i had abdominal pain. 2 hours later i was in hospital with kidney stones. That was my wake up call. Got back into sport and have recently started hiking. The food is so hard to change (i live alone and got hooked on uber eats during lockdown) and takes some time. However its getting there. Keep at it mate

[@stephenmetcalfe51]

Had a Lancia Delta Turbo absolutely loved it, but reliability and servicing was a real issue. Had to wait until the Mk5 GTI to get one and it was well worth the wait. It was the first one with flappy paddles and they were great with a DSG gearbox. Crashed it braking late into a corner though, but best not to dwell on that. Chipped a Beetle Turbo when it was 6 months old which was brilliant with race pads and a new air intake. That was so much fun. Have just turned away from Land Rover Paul and bought a ten year old XC70 ready for some wild camping trips to Scotland. Absolutely love it. Does everything you want, comfortable and relatively safe to leave.

[@jim.stewart5454]

It's not the end of your Camping/Outdoor life. No Need to go to Primark & stock up on cardigans, slippers n pipes 🤣🤣🤣. I was diagnosed in 2015 & yes it freaks you out. Just listen to your GP team take on their advice & you'll be great my friend. Last month I was at my GP, the only thing they could have me on was i took sugar in my tea coffee 😄😄 love to you both JIm xx

[@JCurry_01]

Hi Paul I’m new to your channel and although I’ve never tried or even thought about wild camping you have inspired me to get a small tent and some basic gear and at the tender age of 66 I’m planning a few nights away and I can’t wait. Your quote is spot on. You start to live when you fully realise you only have one life. And if not now, when? Love your chats. All the best. John.

[@zaibcom]

Awesome

[@denysmcnair302]

Thanks for sharing, Paul. I know exactly where you're coming from. I bought a Fit Bit a year ago and frightened myself using the BP monitor without calibrating it and got a similar reading to yourself. In a state of panic I arranged a Dr's appointment and asked for a full MOT. The Dr took bloods, checked my BP and even my hearing. End result, he sent me a letter saying 'you're a fit man' (I'm 73). However, he put me on a 5 month waiting list for a hearing test! 😁. I'm very grateful that I enjoy good health and better than average level of fitness. The secret? A Herbalife shake every morning, Nordic Walking, and added Swytch electric assist to my mountain bike., which allows me to cycle to remote areas at altitude to camp (tent or hammock). I trained as a Nordic Walking instructor. I highly recommend that you find a local instructor and try a taster session. You'll walk further, faster, improve your fitness, and burn 45% more calories when you're hiking to your wild camping sites. I love your videos Paul. You inspired me to put together stoves in a mug to give to my 4 adult children as birthday presents this year! Wishing you the very best of good health Paul. You are in my prayers. 🙏