The Relationship of Diet to the Performance of the Combat Soldier. Minimal Calorie Intake during Combat Patrols in a Hot Humid Environment (Panama)
Abstract
The objectives were to determine the nutrient and energy intake necessary to sustain an acceptable level of physiological performance with minimum losses of body nitrogen, minerals and water in soldiers performing simulated combat patrols in a jungle environment. Four groups of heat-acclimated and physically conditioned men consumed 585, 948, 1362, and 3301 kcal/day for 10-day periods while on maneuvers in a Panamanian jungle. Body weight losses were minimal in comparison to previous laboratory studies. The three restricted groups averaged 4.1, 4.7, and 4.2% loss of initial body weight. Changes in biochemical parameters of blood from fasting subjects demonstrated that body hypohydration, though present, was considerably less than reported in previous studies. Complete nitrogen balances were not determined because of lack of fecal and sweat collections. Nevertheless net body nitrogen losses were observed when daily energy intake was 1362 kcal or less with a daily protein intake of 54.4 g or less. The daily urinary nitrogen losses of the restricted groups gradually decreased during the experimental phase: which suggests some body adaptation to the low calorie and protein intakes. The major portion of the body weight loss appears to be due to the energy deficit as there was subsequent loss of body fat and some water in the three restricted groups.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA078695
Entities
People
- C. F. Consolazio
- Harry J. Krzywicki
- Herman L. Johnson
- Richard A. Nelson
- Richard Dowdy
Organizations
- Letterman Army Hospital