PROTEIN REQUIREMENTS AS A FUNCTION OF CALORIE INTAKE AND WORK LOAD
Abstract
The interactions between dietary protein level and the daily performance of strenuous work were investigated. Liquid diets contained 1.2 (MITMEAL I) or 0.4 (MITMEAL II) g protein/kg body weight/day and 35 Cal/kg/day. Within subjects on both diets, the rate of weight loss during work was slightly higher than control. Decrements in skinfold thickness were proportional to weight changes. Nitrogen balances were positive during both control and work phases on diet I but negative on diet II. Inter-group comparisons between control and work subjects during the work phase revealed greater weight loss and decrement in skinfold thickness among work subjects on both diets. Nitrogen retention was greater among work subjects on diet I; losses were greater among work subjects on diet II. Total O < CONSUMPTION, R.Q., mechanical efficiency, blood chemistries, pulse and respiratory rates were uninfluenced by the protein level of the diet. These studies suggest that under these experimental conditions a dietary protein level between 0.8 and 1.0 g/kg/day is required for nitrogen equilibrium and between 1.0 and 1.4 g/kg/day if retention of 1 g/subject/day is to be attained. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 31, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0292347
Entities
People
- Donald M. Watkin
Organizations
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology