Development of a Dynamic Nutrition Model (DYNUMO)
Abstract
Performance of the warrior system depends to a great extent on the physical and cognitive capabilities of the warfighter. Metabolic fuel status is one factor that can be directly linked to those performance capabilities. This report describes the development of a dynamic nutrition model (DYNUMO) that simulates body metabolic fuel levels over time, in response to nutrient intake and energy expenditure. DYNUMO is a simplification of the digestive and metabolic processes in the human body. Ingested food is absorb into the blood. From there, absorbed nutrients may be stored in adipose tissue as triglycerides, stored in the liver or muscle as glycogen, converted to other metabolic fuels in the liver or utilized for energy. A regulatory system maintains blood glucose at near constant levels and conserves carbohydrate stores. Model algorithms are based on known physiology and biochemistry, with parameter values derived from existing experimental data. Although insufficient data were available for formal model validation, the model currently provides reasonable predictions of blood glucose levels following a single ingestion of a carbohydrate solution and of muscle glycogen levels following a single exercise bout. The model has not been fully tested, however, and it is likely that parameter values and the level of model detail will require adjustment in the future.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA408957
Entities
People
- Tammy J. Doherty