Nutritional Challenges for Field Feeding in a Desert Environment: Use of the Unitized Group Ration (UGR) and a Supplemental Carbohydrate Beverage.
Abstract
The effectiveness of providing a combination of the new Unitized Group Ration (UGR) and the Meal, Ready-to-Eat (MRE) along with a supplemental carbohydrate (CHO) drink to meet the energy and nutritional needs of heavy exercise in the desert was examined. Ninety-one volunteers completed some portion of this 12-day field artillery exercise study. Intervention to collect data occurred only at meals and pre- and post-field exercise. Temperatures ranged from 7.3 to 31.0 deg C. Supplemental beverage intake and water were ad libitum. All other fluid intake was that supplied with the meals. Total fluid intake averaged 7.5 L/day. The UGR was well accepted as a field ration, with dinner entrees rated higher than breakfast items. Energy balance was not maintained during this exercise; energy expended exceeded 4000 kcal/day, while energy intake ranged between 2600 and 3400 kcal. The introduction of a supplemental CHO beverage significantly increased total energy consumption by 400 kcal/day (p<0.05) and CHO intake by 153 g/day (p<0.05). The average daily energy deficit was 931 kcal/day. While the use of a supplemental CHO drink did increase energy and CHO intake, it did not fully compensate for the energy requirements. Furthermore, protein and several micronutrients fell further below the MRDA in the CHO drink group, necessitating fortification if the drink is to be included in rations. Fluid intake and hydration state did not differ between drink groups. Weight and body fat losses were minimal for this time period. Individuals slept 6.6 hours, and mood state improved over time. No differences between drink groups existed for amount of sleep, activity levels, or mood state. The results of this study support maintaining the Nutrient Standard for Operational Rations recommendation of 3600 kcal/day as a standard.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA328882
Entities
People
- A. Cline
- N. Hotson
- P. Niro
- Wayne Johnson
- William J. Tharion
Organizations
- United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine