Benefits of Deploying a Dietitian on Ship on Health Outcomes and Operational Readiness
Abstract
Background: Proper nutrition is essential to support warfighter performance, resilience, and health. For US Navy sailors, being deployed on ship presents challenges in maintaining healthy lifestyle behaviors. Shipboard personnel have limited food options due to storage space, and underway replenishment constraints further limit fresh and healthier food options. Despite these challenges, the consequences of this environment on health and operational readiness are not well known. The purpose of this pilot was to document afloat operational nutrition capabilities and gaps, as well as the benefits of a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) engaging afloat sailors. Methods: Seventy-eight sailors (31 females, 47 males, age = 22-47 years) were assessed pre-deployment for dietary intake, body composition, lifestyle behaviors, and blood pressure. In addition, cardiometabolic biochemistry markers were obtained on 64 sailors. A uniformed RDN was embarked for three months to provide participants with nutrition education and counseling. Differences (mean+/-SE or frequencies/percentages) were assessed via ANOVAs or t-tests. Results: At baseline, 76 percent (47/62) of the sailors assessed had insufficient/deficient Vitamin D (25(OH)D) levels (<30ng/ml) and 43% fell outside of Navy standards for body fat percentage (BF percent). In addition, 31percent had blood pressures consistent with Stage 1 hypertension (i.e., systolic between 130 to 139 and/or diastolic between 80 to 89 mmHg) and 26 percent with Stage 2 hypertension (i.e., systolic >/=140 and/or diastolic >/=90 mmHg). Total cholesterol levels were elevated (>200 mg/dL) in 19 percent of participants, and HDL was below normal (<40 mg/dL) in 22 percent of participants. Baseline dietary intake was assessed in 69 out of 78 participants and was in line with U.S. Dietary Guidelines and Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range (AMDR).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 19, 2024
- Accession Number
- AD1226067
Entities
People
- Dale W Russell
- Elise North
- Lynn C. Kam
- Michael Stone
- Trevor Viboch
Organizations
- Naval Health Research Center