Navy Nutrition: What is Being Served to Those Who Serve?
Abstract
This research aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration's 2022 initiative to improve nutrition in the United States. To achieve this, we examined the nutritional quality of meals served on U.S. Navy ships, emphasizing their alignment with modern dietary guidelines. Our analysis uncovered key issues: the absence of consolidated nutritional data, the Navy's lack of nutrition integration in menu planning, and nutritional disparities in these meals. To address these challenges, we propose integrating comprehensive nutrition into Navy menu planning, establishing a nutritional data system, and revising the Navy's 21-day cycle menu. Additionally, we recommend robust nutritional education programs for naval personnel. This research highlights the urgent need for transformative changes in naval nutrition practices, focusing on the health and readiness of naval personnel and addressing the substantial financial burden of diet-related diseases for the Department of Defense (DOD). We also suggest future research directions to bridge the gap between current dietary practices and established health guidelines. The Navy's swift action is crucial to fulfill its mission effectively while ensuring the well-being of its servicemembers.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1225425
Entities
People
- Justin E. Burdett
- Robert A. Martinez
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School