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Valente CRM, Marques CG, Nakamoto FP, Salvalágio BR, Lucin GA, Velido LCSB, Dos Reis AS, Mendes GL, Bergamo ME, Okada DN, D Angelo RA, de Lázari EC, Dos Santos Quaresma MVL. Household food insecurity among child and adolescent athletics practitioners: A cross-sectional, descriptive, and exploratory study. Nutrition 2024; 123:112407. [PMID: 38503001 DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2024.112407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to explore the prevalence of food insecurity among child and adolescent athletics practitioners and to investigate factors associated with exercise performance, dietary habits, body composition, sleep, and socioeconomic status based on food security status. METHODS This was a cross-sectional, descriptive, and exploratory study conducted in Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil, between June and July 2023. The convenience sample included children and adolescents (7-17 y old) of both sexes. We evaluated exercise performance, household food insecurity (HFI), dietary-related parameters, and other body composition, lifestyle, and social-related variables. Exercise performance was assessed using the counter movement jump (CMJ), squat jump (SJ), horizontal long jump (HLJ), 50-m sprint test (50-m ST) and throwing strength test (TST). The assessment of HFI was conducted using the food insecurity experience scale (FIES). Comparisons and associations were investigated based on food security status. RESULTS The total sample size was comprised of 138 children (n = 42; 30.4%) and adolescents (n = 96; 69.6%). We found an association between food security status and sex (X2(138,1) = 4.42; P = 0.036). SJ was higher in the food security group than in the HFI group (t(117) = 2.112; P = 0.037; ES = 0.39). Sleep- and dietary-related factors did not differ between the groups. CONCLUSIONS In summary, the prevalence of HFI among child and adolescent athletics participants was approximately 40%. Regarding exercise performance, SJ was better in the food security group than in the HFI group. Concerning dietary-related data, the HFI group had a lower number of meals per day than the food security group, and other dietary data did not differ between the groups. Body composition and sleep-related parameters were similar between the groups.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Camila G Marques
- Departamento de Psicobiologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo SP, Brasil
| | | | - Beatriz R Salvalágio
- Departamento de Psicobiologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo SP, Brasil
| | | | | | | | - Gabriela L Mendes
- Departamento de Psicobiologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo SP, Brasil
| | - Maria Eduarda Bergamo
- Curso de Nutrição, Centro Universitário São Camilo, São Paulo SP, Brasil; Instituto Vanderlei Cordeiro de Lima, Campinas SP, Brasil
| | - Daniele N Okada
- Curso de Nutrição, Centro Universitário São Camilo, São Paulo SP, Brasil
| | - Ricardo Antônio D Angelo
- Instituto Vanderlei Cordeiro de Lima, Campinas SP, Brasil; Departamento de Ciências do Esporte, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas SP, Brasil
| | - Evandro C de Lázari
- Instituto Vanderlei Cordeiro de Lima, Campinas SP, Brasil; Departamento de Ciências do Esporte, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas SP, Brasil
| | - Marcus Vinicius L Dos Santos Quaresma
- Curso de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu em Nutrição, Centro Universitário São Camilo, São Paulo SP, Brasil; Curso de Nutrição, Centro Universitário São Camilo, São Paulo SP, Brasil; Instituto Vanderlei Cordeiro de Lima, Campinas SP, Brasil.
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Fallowfield JL, McClung JP, Gaffney-Stomberg E, Probert B, Peterson R, Charlebois A, Boilard H, Carins J, Kilding H. Nutrition as a military capability to deliver human advantage: more people, more ready, more of the time. BMJ Mil Health 2024:e002738. [PMID: 38942432 DOI: 10.1136/military-2024-002738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
Soldiers must achieve high-level mission-preparedness to endure extended periods of physical and cognitive activity, with unpredictable recovery, in all environments. Nutrition provides the foundation for health and performance. Militaries have not maximised the strategic and financial value that considering nutrition as a military capability could deliver. A whole system approach to military nutrition, based on the prepare-perform-recover human capability cycle phases, is presented. Trainee nutrition requirements, through to very-high-readiness forces undertaking arduous roles at reach, must be specifically addressed. Promoting military performance diets in the prepare phase, through practitioner-supported nutrition education and food provision, will ensure mission readiness and mitigate ill health. Delivering nutrition in field settings in the perform phase-through smaller/lighter, nutritionally optimised rations and smart packaging technologies-will improve utility and minimise waste. Strategic dietary supplement use can provide a mission performance-enhancing adjunct to a food-first philosophy. Impact value chain analysis of military nutrition capability investments could support cost-benefit measurement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - J P McClung
- US Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - B Probert
- Defence Science and Technology Group, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - R Peterson
- Defence Science and Technology Group, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - A Charlebois
- Department of National Defence, CANSOFCOM, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - H Boilard
- Strategic Joint Staff, Department of National Defence, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - J Carins
- Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - H Kilding
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
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Giles GE, Cantelon JA, Navarro E, Brunyé TT. State and trait predictors of cognitive responses to acute stress and uncertainty. MILITARY PSYCHOLOGY 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38935408 DOI: 10.1080/08995605.2024.2370708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Stress occurs when conditions burden or exceed an individual's adaptive resources. Military personnel are often tasked with maintaining peak performance under such stressful conditions. Importantly, the effects of stress are nuanced and may vary as a function of individual traits and states. Recent interdisciplinary research has sought to model and identify such relationships. In two previously reported efforts, Soldiers first completed a comprehensive battery of trait assessments across four general domains thought to be predictive of performance: cognitive, health, physical, and social-emotional, and then completed the Decision-Making under Uncertainty and Stress (DeMUS) virtual reality task that probed spatial cognition, memory, and decision-making under stress and variable uncertainty. The present analysis explores whether cognitive, health, physical, and social-emotional trait assessments, as well as physiological state measures, predict or modulate DeMUS performance outcomes under stress. Multiple regression analyses examined the effect of each trait predictor and stress responsiveness on quantitative task performance outcomes. Results revealed that one measure of state stress reactivity, salivary cortisol, predicted lower recognition memory sensitivity. Further, trait measures of healthy eating, agility, flexibility, cognitive updating, and positive emotion predicted enhanced spatial orienting and decision-making performance and confidence. Together, the results suggest that select individual states and traits may predict cognition under stress. Future research should expand to ecologically relevant military stressors during training and operations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace E Giles
- Cognitive Science and Applications Branch, United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, Massachusetts
- Center for Applied Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Medford, Massachusetts
| | - Julie A Cantelon
- Cognitive Science and Applications Branch, United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, Massachusetts
- Center for Applied Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Medford, Massachusetts
| | - Ester Navarro
- Center for Applied Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Medford, Massachusetts
| | - Tad T Brunyé
- Cognitive Science and Applications Branch, United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, Massachusetts
- Center for Applied Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Medford, Massachusetts
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Kosendiak AA, Adamczak BB, Kuźnik Z, Makles S. How Dietary Choices and Nutritional Knowledge Relate to Eating Disorders and Body Esteem of Medical Students? A Single-Center Cross-Sectional Study. Nutrients 2024; 16:1414. [PMID: 38794652 PMCID: PMC11123669 DOI: 10.3390/nu16101414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Eating disorders and body image concerns are increasingly prevalent issues among young individuals, with medical students being particularly vulnerable due to heightened stress levels. This study enrolled 879 medical students to investigate these concerns. The KomPAN questionnaire was utilized to assess dietary habits and knowledge, the Body Esteem Scale (BES) to evaluate body satisfaction, and The Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) to identify eating disorders. A higher level of nutritional knowledge was found to be statistically significantly associated with attempts at excessive calorie restriction among women (β = 0.0864) and negatively among men (β = -0.2039). Moreover, it was negatively associated with self-control of food intake only among men (β = -0.2060). Furthermore, a higher BMI was associated with attempts of excessive calorie restriction in both women and men (β = 0.1052 and β = 0.1656, respectively) and negatively with self-control of food intake (β = -0.0813 and β = -0.1453, respectively). A higher BMI was associated with poorer body esteem across all variables in both genders, except for upper body strength among men. Nutritional knowledge did not correspond with any of these variables, while dietary quality was positively associated with physical condition in women and with physical condition, physical attractiveness, and upper body strength in men. Our study findings suggest that dietary interventions could be improved by considering gender-based behavioral differences and focusing on portion control for individuals with a higher BMI. Caution is warranted in extrapolating the results to the general population due to the specific nature of the study population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bartosz Bogusz Adamczak
- Student Scientific Association, Department of Physical Education and Sport, Wroclaw Medical University, 51-601 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Zofia Kuźnik
- Student Scientific Association, Department of Physical Education and Sport, Wroclaw Medical University, 51-601 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Szymon Makles
- Student Scientific Association, Department of Physical Education and Sport, Wroclaw Medical University, 51-601 Wroclaw, Poland
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Werner EN, Robinson CA, Kerver JM, Pivarnik JM. Diet quality of NCAA Division I athletes assessed by the Healthy Eating Index. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2024; 72:1309-1315. [PMID: 35623046 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2076102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Optimizing diet quality is an important concept for college athletes. Purpose: To evaluate dietary quality of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I athletes. Methods: Total 94 college athletes (n= 21 male, 73 female) from 19 different varsity teams at a single university completed a 24-hour dietary recall using the Automated Self-Administered 24-hour (ASA24) Dietary Assessment Tool. Diet quality was assessed using the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) with higher scores indicating better diet quality (range 0-100). Results: The average HEI score for the total sample was 59.2 ± 16.6 and only nine athletes achieved an HEI score ≥ 80. There were no significant differences in HEI scores between sexes, class, majors, sport played, or those who did or did not report taking previous nutrition coursework. Conclusions: The dietary quality was poor based on US dietary guidelines for the general population, which could have negative effects on health and performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily N Werner
- Kinesiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Jean M Kerver
- Epidemiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - James M Pivarnik
- Epidemiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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Panda SP, Chatterjee K, Srivastava K, Chauhan VS, Yadav P. Building psychological resilience in Armed Forces worldwide. Med J Armed Forces India 2024; 80:130-139. [PMID: 38525457 PMCID: PMC10954499 DOI: 10.1016/j.mjafi.2024.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Psychological resilience among troops can be enhanced through relatively simple interventions. Globally, various Armed Forces have successfully implemented modules for building psychological resilience. Programs from different countries are listed, evaluated and their underpinnings explored. Recommendations for a variety of feasible and culturally acceptable interventions targeted at individuals, families, units, community and organizations in the Indian context have been made; ranging from mindfulness training to embedded combat psychologists. Interventions are likely to succeed if integrated within existing basic training and unit/career programs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kaushik Chatterjee
- Principal Medical Officer, Eastern Air Command, Shillong, Meghalaya, India
| | - Kalpana Srivastava
- Scientist ‘G’, Department of Psychiatry, Armed Forces Medical College, Pune, India
| | - Vinay Singh Chauhan
- Professor & Head, Department of Psychiatry, Armed Forces Medical College, Pune, India
| | - Prateek Yadav
- Professor, Department of Psychiatry, Armed Forces Medical College, Pune, India
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Acevedo AM, Zeigler Z, Melton B. Maximal Aerobic Capacity as a Predictor of Performance on ACFT Total Score of ROTC Cadets. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EXERCISE SCIENCE 2024; 17:429-437. [PMID: 38665860 PMCID: PMC11042848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is a newly developed test that assesses the combat readiness of U.S. Army soldiers. The purpose of this cross-sectional study is to determine if VO2max can predict performance outcomes of the ACFT in ROTC cadets. This understanding can provide a better understanding of the aerobic demands of the ACFT. Cadets (50 males, 14 females; aged 21.43 ± 4.10 years) completed the 6-event ACFT (maximum trap-bar deadlift [MDL], standing power throw [SPT], hand-release pushups [HRPU], sprint-drag-carry shuttle run [SDC], plank [PLK], and 2-mile run [2MR]). The cadets conducted a maximal treadmill running test following the Bruce protocol. The ability of VO2max (mL·kg-1·min-1) to predict ACFT performance was determined with a linear regression model. Significance was set at p < 0.05. VO2max was significantly and positively correlated to MDL (r = .253, p = .044), HRPU (r = .486, p < .001), SDC (r = .495, p < .001), PLK (r = .628, p < .001) 2MR (r = .612, p < .001) and overall ACFT score (r = .619, p < .001) but not SPT (r = .203, p = .108). VO2max significantly explained 38% (p < .001) of the variance on the total ACFT scores with a beta coefficient of 4.338. There is a gap in understanding how VO2max impacts performance in the newly implemented ACFT. For every 1 mL·kg-1·min-1 increase in VO2max, ACFT total scores increased by 4 points. These findings support the need for further research due to the trends of U.S. Army personnel failing the 2MR, which can be associated with an insufficient aerobic capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony M Acevedo
- College of Natural Sciences, Grand Canyon University, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Zachary Zeigler
- College of Natural Sciences, Grand Canyon University, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Bridget Melton
- Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology, Waters College of Health Professions, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA, USA
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Żuchowski P, Dura M, Jeka D, Waszczak-Jeka M. Comparison of Physical Fitness, Self-Assessed Resilience, and Self-Assessed Character Traits between Elite Polish Obstacle Course Racers and Polish Special Operations Force Personnel. Mil Med 2023; 188:e3547-e3552. [PMID: 37410871 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usad259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Some of the obstacle Course Race (OCR) competitions are co-organized by military units that are seeking candidates for service in special operations forces (SOFs). The aim of the study was to compare psycho-physical characteristics between Polish OCR athletes and SOF soldiers, in order to assess the possibility of recruiting future SOF soldiers from the OCR community. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study included 23 OCR competitors, and 17 soldiers from JW Formoza were used as the comparative group. The psychological measure of resilience was assessed using the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale. Participants also completed a survey in which they had to rank character strengths. Physical fitness was assessed on the basis of a 3000-m run and the maximum number of sit-ups and straight pull-ups. RESULTS There were significant differences between OCR participants and JW Formoza soldiers: body mass index, 24.1 ± 1.5 vs. 25.9 ± 1.9 (P = .002); 3000-m run, 11:59 ± 0:49 vs. 12:11 ± 0:28 (P = .024); and straight pull-ups, 19 ± 3 vs. 15 ± 3 (P = .001). The most commonly chosen character strengths in both groups were self-control, team worker, and optimism. CONCLUSIONS OCR competitors show psychophysical characteristics similar to those expected from actual SOF personnel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Żuchowski
- Clinic of Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, Jan Biziel University Hospital No 2, CM UMK in Bydgoszcz, Bydgoszcz 85-168, Poland
| | - Marta Dura
- Department of Radiology, Jan Biziel University Hospital No 2, CM UMK in Bydgoszcz, Bydgoszcz 85-168, Poland
| | - Daniel Jeka
- Nasz Lekarz Przychodnie Medyczne, Toruń 87-100, Poland
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Sheafer KA, Lee DM, George B, Jayne JM, Cole RE. Nutrition Knowledge Is Associated With Diet Quality Among US Army Soldiers. JOURNAL OF NUTRITION EDUCATION AND BEHAVIOR 2023; 55:748-754. [PMID: 37632491 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2023.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Examine the relationship between nutrition knowledge, diet quality, and eating behavior among active-duty US Army Soldiers. METHODS Cross-sectional study with data collection in February 2018 via paper surveys during the validation of the Military Eating Behavior Survey. RESULTS Among 440 US Army Soldiers, nutrition knowledge was positively and significantly associated with diet quality (b = 0.29, P < 0.001). For every 1-point increase in nutrition knowledge, the Healthy Eating Index-2015 score was expected to increase by 0.29 points. Nutrition knowledge was not significantly associated with skipping breakfast (odds ratio, 1.01; 95% confidence interval, 0.98-1.04) or dining out (odds ratio, 1.01; 95% confidence interval, 0.98-1.03). CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The outcomes of this study warrant further investigation to determine what interventions provide the strongest outcomes for improving nutrition knowledge and diet quality, as well as create and support an environment that enhances healthy behaviors regarding nutrition that lead to improved diet quality among active-duty Soldiers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth A Sheafer
- US Military-Baylor University Graduate Program in Nutrition, Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, TX.
| | - Dustin M Lee
- US Military-Baylor University Graduate Program in Nutrition, Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, TX
| | - Beatriz George
- US Military-Baylor University Graduate Program in Nutrition, Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, TX
| | - Julianna M Jayne
- Military Nutrition Division, US Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA
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McClung JP, Beckner ME, Farina EK. Assessing the physiological basis for resilience in military personnel. Stress Health 2023; 39:33-39. [PMID: 37395310 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Military personnel experience training and operational demands that are different from civilian populations, including frequent deployment, exposure to austere environments, and dislocation from family. These unique occupational demands may result in negative impacts on health, performance, and career success. As such, resilience, defined as a system's capacity to resist, recover, recover better, or adapt, to perturbation from a challenge or stressor, is a critical factor in assuring the health and safety of military personnel. In recent years, the Department of Defense (DoD) has funded research programs assessing the physiological basis of resilience. This review will overview research programs, review salient findings from recent studies, and highlight potential future areas of research. Physiological factors influencing or predicting resilience in US military populations, including physical performance, anthropometrics and body composition, nutrition and dietary supplements, and other biomarkers will be highlighted. Finally, this manuscript will detail potential future studies, including interventions, aimed at optimising physiological resilience in military personnel.
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Affiliation(s)
- James P McClung
- Military Nutrition Division, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Meaghan E Beckner
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, USA
| | - Emily K Farina
- Military Nutrition Division, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, Massachusetts, USA
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Giles GE, Navarro E, Elkin-Frankston S, Brunyé TT, Elmore WR, Seay JF, McKenzie KL, O'Fallon KS, Brown SA, Parham JL, Garlie TN, DeSimone L, Villa JD, Choi-Rokas HE, Mitchell KB, Racicot K, Soares JW, Caruso C, Anderson D, Cantelon JA, Gardony AL, Smith TJ, Karl JP, Jayne JM, Christopher JJ, Talarico MK, Sperlein JN, Boynton AC, Jensen A, Ramsay JW, Eddy MD. Characterizing Relationships Among the Cognitive, Physical, Social-emotional, and Health-related Traits of Military Personnel. Mil Med 2023; 188:e2275-e2283. [PMID: 36705463 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usad002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Personnel engaged in high-stakes occupations, such as military personnel, law enforcement, and emergency first responders, must sustain performance through a range of environmental stressors. To maximize the effectiveness of military personnel, an a priori understanding of traits can help predict their physical and cognitive performance under stress and adversity. This work developed and assessed a suite of measures that have the potential to predict performance during operational scenarios. These measures were designed to characterize four specific trait-based domains: cognitive, health, physical, and social-emotional. MATERIALS AND METHODS One hundred and ninety-one active duty U.S. Army soldiers completed interleaved questionnaire-based, seated task-based, and physical task-based measures over a period of 3-5 days. Redundancy analysis, dimensionality reduction, and network analyses revealed several patterns of interest. RESULTS First, unique variable analysis revealed a minimally redundant battery of instruments. Second, principal component analysis showed that metrics tended to cluster together in three to five components within each domain. Finally, analyses of cross-domain associations using network analysis illustrated that cognitive, health, physical, and social-emotional domains showed strong construct solidarity. CONCLUSIONS The present battery of metrics presents a fieldable toolkit that may be used to predict operational performance that can be clustered into separate components or used independently. It will aid predictive algorithm development aimed to identify critical predictors of individual military personnel and small-unit performance outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace E Giles
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
- Center for Applied Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Medford, MA 02155, USA
| | - Ester Navarro
- Center for Applied Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Medford, MA 02155, USA
| | - Seth Elkin-Frankston
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
- Center for Applied Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Medford, MA 02155, USA
| | - Tad T Brunyé
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
- Center for Applied Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Medford, MA 02155, USA
| | - Wade R Elmore
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Joseph F Seay
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Kari L McKenzie
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Kevin S O'Fallon
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Stephanie A Brown
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Joseph L Parham
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Todd N Garlie
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Linda DeSimone
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Jose D Villa
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Hyegjoo E Choi-Rokas
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - K Blake Mitchell
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Kenneth Racicot
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Jason W Soares
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Christina Caruso
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Debra Anderson
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Julie A Cantelon
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Aaron L Gardony
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Tracey J Smith
- United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - J Philip Karl
- United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Julianna M Jayne
- United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - John J Christopher
- United States Army Aberdeen Test Center, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21005, USA
| | - Maria K Talarico
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Analysis Center, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21005, USA
| | - Jennifer Neugebauer Sperlein
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Analysis Center, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21005, USA
| | - Angela C Boynton
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Analysis Center, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21005, USA
| | - Andrew Jensen
- Naval Health Research Center, San Diego, CA 92152, USA
| | - John W Ramsay
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Marianna D Eddy
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
- Center for Applied Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Medford, MA 02155, USA
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Jiang H, Zhang S, Yao X, Meng L, Lin Y, Guo F, Yang D, Jin M, Wang J, Tang M, Chen K. Does physical activity attenuate the association between ambient PM 2.5 and physical function? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 874:162501. [PMID: 36863583 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical function (PF), such as muscle strength, performing daily activities, has gradually declined with the increase of age, causing the occurrence of disability and diseases burden. Air pollution exposure and physical activity (PA) were both linked to PF. We aimed to explore the individual and joint effects of particulate matter <2.5 μm (PM2.5) and PA on PF. METHODS A total of 4537 participants and 12,011 observations aged ≥45 years old from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) cohort from 2011 to 2015 were included into the study. PF was assessed by a combined score of four tests, including grip strength, walking speed, sense of balance, and chair standing tests. Air pollution exposure data was from The ChinaHighAirPollutants (CHAP) dataset. The annual PM2.5 exposure for each individual was estimated based on county-level resident addresses. We estimated the volume of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) by quoting metabolic equivalent (MET). Multivariate linear model was conducted for baseline analysis, and linear mixed model with random participant intercepts was constructed for cohort longitudinal analysis. RESULTS PM2.5 was negatively associated with PF, while PA was positively associated with PF in baseline analysis. In cohort longitudinal analysis, a 10 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 was associated to a 0.025 point (95 % CI: -0.047, -0.003) decrease in PF score, and a 10-MET-h/week increase in PA was related to a 0.004 point (95 % CI: 0.001, 0.008) increase in PF score. The association between PM2.5 and PF decreased by increased PA intensity, and PA reversed the detrimental effects between PM2.5 and PF. CONCLUSION PA attenuated the association of air pollution with PF at both high and low levels of air pollution, implying that PA may be an effective behavior to reduce the adverse effects of poor air quality on PF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Jiang
- Department of Public Health, Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Simei Zhang
- Department of Public Health, Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xuecheng Yao
- Department of Public Health, Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lin Meng
- Department of Public Health, Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yaoyao Lin
- Department of Public Health, Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Fanjia Guo
- Department of Public Health, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Dandan Yang
- Department of Public Health, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Mingjuan Jin
- Department of Public Health, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jianbing Wang
- Department of Public Health, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health of Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Mengling Tang
- Department of Public Health, Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Kun Chen
- Department of Public Health, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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Stein JA, Farina EK, Karl JP, Thompson LA, Knapik JJ, Pasiakos SM, McClung JP, Lieberman HR. Biomarkers of oxidative stress, diet and exercise distinguish soldiers selected and non-selected for special forces training. Metabolomics 2023; 19:39. [PMID: 37041398 PMCID: PMC10090007 DOI: 10.1007/s11306-023-01998-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The metabolomic profiles of Soldiers entering the U.S. Special Forces Assessment and Selection course (SFAS) have not been evaluated. OBJECTIVES To compare pre-SFAS blood metabolomes of Soldiers selected during SFAS versus those not selected, and explore the relationships between the metabolome, physical performance, and diet quality. METHODS Fasted blood samples and food frequency questionnaires were collected from 761 Soldiers prior to entering SFAS to assess metabolomic profiles and diet quality, respectively. Physical performance was assessed throughout SFAS. RESULTS Between-group differences (False Discovery Rate < 0.05) in 108 metabolites were detected. Selected candidates had higher levels of compounds within xenobiotic, pentose phosphate, and corticosteroid metabolic pathways, while non-selected candidates had higher levels of compounds potentially indicative of oxidative stress (i.e., sphingomyelins, acylcarnitines, glutathione, amino acids). Multiple compounds higher in non-selected versus selected candidates included: 1-carboxyethylphenylalanine; 4-hydroxy-nonenal-glutathione; α-hydroxyisocaproate; hexanoylcarnitine; sphingomyelin and were associated with lower diet quality and worse physical performance. CONCLUSION: Candidates selected during SFAS had higher pre-SFAS levels of circulating metabolites that were associated with resistance to oxidative stress, higher physical performance and higher diet quality. In contrast, non-selected candidates had higher levels of metabolites potentially indicating elevated oxidative stress. These findings indicate that Soldiers who were selected for continued Special Forces training enter the SFAS course with metabolites associated with healthier diets and better physical performance. Additionally, the non-selected candidates had higher levels of metabolites that may indicate elevated oxidative stress, which could result from poor nutrition, non-functional overreaching/overtraining, or incomplete recovery from previous physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse A Stein
- Military Nutrition Division, United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, 10 General Greene Ave, Bldg. 42, Natick, MA, 01760, USA.
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Belcamp, MD, USA.
| | - Emily K Farina
- Military Nutrition Division, United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, 10 General Greene Ave, Bldg. 42, Natick, MA, 01760, USA
| | - J Philip Karl
- Military Nutrition Division, United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, 10 General Greene Ave, Bldg. 42, Natick, MA, 01760, USA
| | - Lauren A Thompson
- Military Nutrition Division, United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, 10 General Greene Ave, Bldg. 42, Natick, MA, 01760, USA
| | - Joseph J Knapik
- Military Nutrition Division, United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, 10 General Greene Ave, Bldg. 42, Natick, MA, 01760, USA
| | - Stefan M Pasiakos
- Military Nutrition Division, United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, 10 General Greene Ave, Bldg. 42, Natick, MA, 01760, USA
| | - James P McClung
- Military Nutrition Division, United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, 10 General Greene Ave, Bldg. 42, Natick, MA, 01760, USA
| | - Harris R Lieberman
- Military Nutrition Division, United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, 10 General Greene Ave, Bldg. 42, Natick, MA, 01760, USA
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Dyal RN, Deschamps BA, McGraw SM, Jayne JM, Karl JP, Cole RE. Healthy Eating Score-7 as a Measure of Diet Quality in a Military Population. JOURNAL OF NUTRITION EDUCATION AND BEHAVIOR 2022; 54:455-464. [PMID: 35000832 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2021.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Identify potential revisions to the Healthy Eating Score (HES-5) that improve associations with the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) -2015 total and component scores. METHODS Pearson r correlations were determined from soldiers' (n = 433) survey data, including the HES, proposed additional questions, and the Block Food Frequency Questionnaire. RESULTS Adding sugar-sweetened beverages and energy drink questions (HES-7) strengthened the HES and HEI-2015 correlation (HES-5; r = 0.42, n = 433, r2 = 0.18, P < 0.001) (HES-7; r = 0.52, r2 = 0.27, P < 0.001). The HES components and Block Food Frequency Questionnaire consumption correlations were as follows: quantity of fruit (r = 0.37, r2 = 0.14, P < 0.001), vegetables (r = 0.41, r2 = 0.17, P < 0.001), whole grains (r = 0.35, r2 = 0.12 P < 0.001), dairy (r = 0.34, r2 = 0.12, P < 0.001), fish (r = 0.31, r2 = 0.10, P < 0.001), and energy drink (r = 0.59, r2 = 0.35, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS HES-7 had the strongest correlation with HEI-2015. Future studies can explore if including consumption quantity in the HES improves its representation of diet quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel N Dyal
- Madigan Army Medical Center, Nutrition Care Division, Joint Base Lewis McChord, WA.
| | - Bethany A Deschamps
- Madigan Army Medical Center, Nutrition Care Division, Joint Base Lewis McChord, WA
| | - Susan M McGraw
- US Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Military Nutrition Division, Natick, MA
| | - Julianna M Jayne
- US Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Military Nutrition Division, Natick, MA
| | - J Philip Karl
- US Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Military Nutrition Division, Natick, MA
| | - Renee E Cole
- Medical Center of Excellence, Graduate Program in Nutrition, Joint Base San Antonio, Fort Sam Houston, TX
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15
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Newbury JW, Foo WL, Cole M, Kelly AL, Chessor RJ, Sparks SA, Faghy MA, Gough HC, Gough LA. Nutritional intakes of highly trained adolescent swimmers before, during, and after a national lockdown in the COVID-19 pandemic. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0266238. [PMID: 35381043 PMCID: PMC8982883 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0266238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Strict lockdown measures were introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused mass disruption to adolescent swimmers’ daily routines. To measure how lockdown impacted nutritional practices in this cohort, three-day photograph food diaries were analysed at three time points: before (January), during (April), and after (September) the first UK lockdown. Thirteen swimmers (aged 15 ± 1 years) from a high-performance swimming club submitted satisfactory food diaries at all time points. During lockdown, lower amounts of energy (45.3 ± 9.8 vs. 31.1 ± 7.7 kcal∙kg BM∙day-1, p<0.001), carbohydrate (5.4 ± 1.2 vs. 3.5 ± 1.1 g∙kg BM∙day-1, p<0.001), protein (2.3 ± 0.4 vs. 1.7 ± 0.4 g∙kg BM∙day-1, p = 0.002), and fat (1.6 ± 0.4 vs. 1.1 ± 0.3 g∙kg BM∙day-1, p = 0.011) were reported. After lockdown, no nutritional differences were found in comparison compared to before lockdown (energy: 44.0 ± 12.1 kcal∙kg BM∙day-1; carbohydrate: 5.4 ± 1.4 g∙kg BM∙day-1; protein: 2.1 ± 0.6 g∙kg BM∙day-1; fat: 1.5 ± 0.6 g ∙kg BM∙day-1, all p>0.05), despite fewer training hours being completed (15.0 ± 1.4 vs. 19.1 ± 2.2 h∙week-1, p<0.001). These findings highlight the ability of adolescent swimmers to alter their nutrition based on their changing training circumstances when receiving sport nutrition support. However, some individuals displayed signs of suboptimal nutrition during lockdown that were not corrected once training resumed. This warrants future research to develop interactive education workshops that maintain focus and motivation towards optimal nutrition practices in isolated periods away from training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josh W. Newbury
- Department of Sport and Exercise, Human Performance and Health Research Group, Centre for Life and Sport Sciences (CLaSS), Birmingham City University, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Wee Lun Foo
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Cole
- Department of Sport and Exercise, Human Performance and Health Research Group, Centre for Life and Sport Sciences (CLaSS), Birmingham City University, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Adam L. Kelly
- Department of Sport and Exercise, Human Performance and Health Research Group, Centre for Life and Sport Sciences (CLaSS), Birmingham City University, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Richard J. Chessor
- Sport Science and Sport Medicine Team, British Swimming, Loughborough, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
| | - S. Andy Sparks
- Department of Sport and Physical Activity, Sports Nutrition and Performance Research Group, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Mark A. Faghy
- School of Science, Sport and Exercise, University of Derby, Derby, United Kingdom
| | | | - Lewis A. Gough
- Department of Sport and Exercise, Human Performance and Health Research Group, Centre for Life and Sport Sciences (CLaSS), Birmingham City University, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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Kleinberger CA, Bukhari AS, Kirkpatrick KM, Moylan EM, Billington JL, Armstrong NJ, Cole RE, Deuster PA. Go for Green® Nutrition Program: Translating Evidence Into Practice. Mil Med 2022; 188:1046-1053. [PMID: 37191636 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usab503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Introduction
Go for Green® (G4G) is an evidence-based, multi-component nutrition program for military dining facilities (DFAC) to improve nutritional fitness among Service Members. The program evolved from supporting “fueling” during initial Army training into a robust intervention across all U.S. Military branches. The current G4G program consists of eight program requirements to optimize the nutrition environment, including traffic light labeling, nutritious menus, choice architecture, food promotion, marketing, and staff training. The evolution of the G4G program, development of standardized program requirements, and lessons learned are described.
Materials and Methods
The latest scientific evidence, best practices in health promotion and nutrition education, results and data from G4G implementation in the military community support the current version of G4G. Feedback and observations from program developers, military branch foodservice headquarters, installation leadership, and local G4G DFAC teams provided insight into implementation challenges, successes, facilitators, and barriers.
Results
The G4G program has evolved and expanded from its initial inception over 10 years ago to its current version. Research studies, nutrition science, and feedback from military community stakeholders have informed programmatic changes and improvements.
Conclusions
G4G 2.0 is a robust, innovative, multi-component, performance nutrition program with clear program element requirements. Value was added to elevate the G4G program by setting program requirements, expanding program components, and establishing a centralized resource hub. Performance nutrition initiatives in local military DFAC for dining facilities, such as G4G 2.0, has great potential to impact the health and well-being of Service Members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn A Kleinberger
- Consortium for Health and Military Performance, Department of Military and Emergency Medicine, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Rockville, MD 20817, USA
| | - Asma S Bukhari
- US Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Katie M Kirkpatrick
- Consortium for Health and Military Performance, Department of Military and Emergency Medicine, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Rockville, MD 20817, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Moylan
- Consortium for Health and Military Performance, Department of Military and Emergency Medicine, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Rockville, MD 20817, USA
| | | | | | - Renee E Cole
- US Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA 01760, USA
- US Military-Baylor University Graduate Program in Nutrition, Medical Center of Excellence Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, TX 78234, USA
| | - Patricia A Deuster
- Consortium for Health and Military Performance, Department of Military and Emergency Medicine, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
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17
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Hughes RL, Holscher HD. Fueling Gut Microbes: A Review of the Interaction between Diet, Exercise, and the Gut Microbiota in Athletes. Adv Nutr 2021; 12:2190-2215. [PMID: 34229348 PMCID: PMC8634498 DOI: 10.1093/advances/nmab077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The athlete's goal is to optimize their performance. Towards this end, nutrition has been used to improve the health of athletes' brains, bones, muscles, and cardiovascular system. However, recent research suggests that the gut and its resident microbiota may also play a role in athlete health and performance. Therefore, athletes should consider dietary strategies in the context of their potential effects on the gut microbiota, including the impact of sports-centric dietary strategies (e.g., protein supplements, carbohydrate loading) on the gut microbiota as well as the effects of gut-centric dietary strategies (e.g., probiotics, prebiotics) on performance. This review provides an overview of the interaction between diet, exercise, and the gut microbiota, focusing on dietary strategies that may impact both the gut microbiota and athletic performance. Current evidence suggests that the gut microbiota could, in theory, contribute to the effects of dietary intake on athletic performance by influencing microbial metabolite production, gastrointestinal physiology, and immune modulation. Common dietary strategies such as high protein and simple carbohydrate intake, low fiber intake, and food avoidance may adversely impact the gut microbiota and, in turn, performance. Conversely, intake of adequate dietary fiber, a variety of protein sources, and emphasis on unsaturated fats, especially omega-3 (ɷ-3) fatty acids, in addition to consumption of prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics, have shown promising results in optimizing athlete health and performance. Ultimately, while this is an emerging and promising area of research, more studies are needed that incorporate, control, and manipulate all 3 of these elements (i.e., diet, exercise, and gut microbiome) to provide recommendations for athletes on how to "fuel their microbes."
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Affiliation(s)
- Riley L Hughes
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Hannah D Holscher
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Division of Nutrition Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
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Daniels E, Hanson J. Energy-Adjusted Dietary Intakes Are Associated with Perceived Barriers to Healthy Eating but Not Food Insecurity or Sports Nutrition Knowledge in a Pilot Study of ROTC Cadets. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13093053. [PMID: 34578931 PMCID: PMC8471493 DOI: 10.3390/nu13093053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Military service is inherently demanding and, due to the nature of these demands, the term “tactical athlete” has been coined to capture the physical requirements of the profession. Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) cadets are a unique subset of the military service community, and the complexity of their training and educational pursuits increases their susceptibility to unhealthy eating patterns. The purpose of this pilot study was to explore the relationship between the perceived barriers to healthy eating, food insecurity, sports nutrition knowledge, and dietary patterns among Army ROTC cadets. The usual dietary intake was gathered from (N = 37) cadets using the General Nutrition Assessment Food Frequency Questionnaire. The perceived barriers to healthy eating were measured using a set of scales consisting of social barriers (6 items, α = 0.86), access barriers (2 items, α = 0.95), and personal barriers (2 items, α = 0.67), with higher-scale scores indicating greater perceived barriers. Spearman correlation coefficients were used to measure the association between the energy-adjusted dietary intakes and the scores on the barriers scales. Energy-adjusted intakes of calcium (ρ = −0.47, p ≤ 0.01), fiber (ρ = −0.35, p = 0.03), vitamin A (ρ = −0.46, p ≤ 0.01), vitamin C (ρ = −0.43, p ≤ 0.01), fruit (ρ = −0.34, p = 0.04), and vegetables (ρ = −0.50, p ≤ 0.01) were negatively correlated with the perceived personal barrier scores. The energy-adjusted intakes of fiber (ρ = −0.36, p = 0.03), vitamin C (ρ = −0.37, p = 0.03), and vitamin E (ρ = −0.45, p ≤.01) were negatively correlated with perceived social barriers, while energy-adjusted vitamin C intake was negatively correlated with perceived access barriers (ρ = −0.40, p = 0.01). Although additional research is needed to better understand the dietary patterns of ROTC cadets, among the participants in this study, greater perceived personal, social, and access barriers were associated with less nutrient-dense eating patterns. Interventions aimed at addressing such barriers may prove beneficial for the improvement of diet quality among ROTC cadets.
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19
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Farina EK, Thompson LA, Knapik JJ, Pasiakos SM, McClung JP, Lieberman HR. Anthropometrics and Body Composition Predict Physical Performance and Selection to Attend Special Forces Training in United States Army Soldiers. Mil Med 2021; 187:1381-1388. [PMID: 34302352 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usab315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Anthropometrics and body composition characteristics differentiate many types of athletes and are related to performance on fitness tests and tasks in military personnel. Soldiers competing to enter elite units must demonstrate physical fitness and operational competence across multiple events. Therefore, this study determined whether anthropometrics and body composition predicted physical performance and selection for special forces training among soldiers attending the rigorous Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS) course. MATERIALS AND METHODS Soldiers attending the SFAS course between May 2015 and March 2017 were enrolled in a longitudinal, observational study. Anthropometrics (height, body mass, and body mass index [BMI]; n = 795) and body composition measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (percentage body fat, fat mass, lean mass, bone mineral content [BMC], and bone mineral density [BMD]; n = 117) were assessed before the course start. Associations with physical performance were determined with correlation coefficients. Associations with selection were determined with analyses of variance and t-tests; effect sizes were calculated as Cohen's d. The U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine Institutional Review Board (IRB) initially approved this study, and the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command IRB approved the continuing review. RESULTS Lower percentage body fat and fat mass predicted better performance on all assessments: Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), pull-ups, SFAS run, loaded road march, obstacle course, and land navigation (P ≤ .05). Higher lean mass predicted better performance on the loaded road march (P ≤ .05). Lower body mass and BMI predicted better performance on APFT, pull-ups, run, and obstacle course; higher body mass and BMI predicted better performance on the loaded road march (P ≤ .05). Shorter stature predicted better performance on push-ups (APFT) and pull-ups; taller stature predicted better performance on SFAS run and loaded road march (P ≤ .05). On average, the selected soldiers were taller (179.0 ± 6.6 vs. 176.7 ± 6.7 cm), had higher body mass (85.8 ± 8.8 vs. 82.1 ± 9.6 kg), BMI (26.8 ± 2.2 vs. 26.3 ± 2.6 kg/m2), lean mass (67.2 ± 7.3 vs. 61.9 ± 7.6 kg), BMC (3.47 ± 0.40 vs. 3.29 ± 0.56 kg), and BMD (1.34 ± 0.10 vs. 1.28 ± 0.10 g/cm2), and lower percentage body fat (17.3 ± 3.4 vs. 20.1 ± 4.5%) and fat mass (14.2 ± 3.7 vs. 15.8 ± 4.4 kg) (P ≤ .05). Effect sizes were largest for lean mass (Cohen's d = 0.71) and percentage body fat (d = 0.70), followed by BMD (d = 0.60), body mass (d = 0.40), fat mass (d = 0.39), BMC (d = 0.37), height (d = 0.35), and BMI (d = 0.21). Body mass adjustment attenuated associations between height and selection. CONCLUSIONS Anthropometrics and body composition are predictors of physical performance and SFAS success. Since these measures are modifiable (excluding height), they may be the focus of intervention studies aiming to improve performance in arduous military training courses, sports that require competition in multiple events, and occupations that have varied physical demands, such as firefighting, law enforcement, and construction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily K Farina
- Military Nutrition Division, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA, USA
| | - Lauren A Thompson
- Military Nutrition Division, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA, USA
| | - Joseph J Knapik
- Military Nutrition Division, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA, USA
| | - Stefan M Pasiakos
- Military Nutrition Division, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA, USA
| | - James P McClung
- Military Nutrition Division, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA, USA
| | - Harris R Lieberman
- Military Nutrition Division, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA, USA
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20
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Ratajczak J, Czerniak U, Wieliński D, Ciekot-Sołtysiak M, Zieliński J, Gronek P, Demuth A. Pro-Healthy Diet Properties and Its Determinants among Aging Masters Athletes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:7614. [PMID: 34300064 PMCID: PMC8304838 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18147614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Qualitative dietary assessments are not common in aging athletes. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate diet quality and its determinants among aging masters athletes. Eighty-six participants of the 8th World Masters Indoor Athletics Championships were enrolled in the study (age range 36-65 years). Three subgroups were distinguished to represent countries with different eating habits. Body composition was measured by bioelectrical impedance. Eating habits and diet quality were assessed using the Dietary Habits and Nutrition Beliefs Questionnaire (KomPAN®, Warszawa, Poland), and the Pro-healthy Diet Index (pHDI-10). Dietary quality determinants were identified by a multiple regression model conducted for each subgroup separately (Great Britain, France, and Poland). The results showed that none of the subgroups adhered to the reference intake of products with beneficial health outcomes. This was particularly noticeable in the insufficient consumption of whole grain products, dairy, and fish. The fish and vegetables consumption frequency significantly differentiated the eating habits of the studied groups. Diet quality determinants varied depending on the group. However, in each of them, fruit consumption was one of the components of a good-quality diet. The obtained results can be used by institutions providing health education among the elderly to develop an appropriate strategy aimed at changing inappropriate eating habits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Ratajczak
- Department of Anthropology and Biometry, Poznan University of Physical Education, 61-871 Poznań, Poland; (U.C.); (D.W.); (A.D.)
| | - Urszula Czerniak
- Department of Anthropology and Biometry, Poznan University of Physical Education, 61-871 Poznań, Poland; (U.C.); (D.W.); (A.D.)
| | - Dariusz Wieliński
- Department of Anthropology and Biometry, Poznan University of Physical Education, 61-871 Poznań, Poland; (U.C.); (D.W.); (A.D.)
| | - Monika Ciekot-Sołtysiak
- Department of Athletics, Strength and Conditioning, Poznan University of Physical Education, 61-871 Poznań, Poland; (M.C.-S.); (J.Z.)
| | - Jacek Zieliński
- Department of Athletics, Strength and Conditioning, Poznan University of Physical Education, 61-871 Poznań, Poland; (M.C.-S.); (J.Z.)
| | - Piotr Gronek
- Department of Dance, Poznan University of Physical Education, 61-871 Poznań, Poland;
| | - Anna Demuth
- Department of Anthropology and Biometry, Poznan University of Physical Education, 61-871 Poznań, Poland; (U.C.); (D.W.); (A.D.)
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21
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Sotos-Prieto M, Del Rio D, Drescher G, Estruch R, Hanson C, Harlan T, Hu FB, Loi M, McClung JP, Mojica A, Puglielli D, Toong K, Yangarber F, Kales SN. Mediterranean diet - promotion and dissemination of healthy eating: proceedings of an exploratory seminar at the Radcliffe institute for advanced study. Int J Food Sci Nutr 2021; 73:158-171. [PMID: 34225548 DOI: 10.1080/09637486.2021.1941804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The traditional Mediterranean diet is considered the world's most evidence-based eating pattern for promoting health and longevity. However, institutional food environments and their busy consumers often sacrifice health benefits for the convenience of faster and cheaper foods that generally are of lower quality and are more processed, and thus, contribute to the current epidemics of obesity and diabetes. Expert consensus has even identified the Mediterranean diet as the easiest to follow among healthy eating patterns. Nonetheless, fewer American families cook at home and many food services have been slow to implement healthier food options compatible with the Mediterranean diet. In September 2019, we convened a group of thought leaders at an exploratory seminar entitled: "Mediterranean Diet: Promotion and Dissemination of Healthy Eating", hosted by the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Studies at Harvard University. The multidisciplinary faculty discussed best practices for translating traditional Mediterranean lifestyle principles to modern society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Sotos-Prieto
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,IdiPaz (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital Universitario La Paz), Madrid, Spain.,CIBERESP (CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health), Madrid, Spain.,IMDEA-Food Institute, CEI UAM + CSIC, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Daniele Del Rio
- School of Advanced Studies on Food and Nutrition, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Greg Drescher
- The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY, USA
| | - Ramon Estruch
- Internal Medicine Department, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Ciber Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Chavanne Hanson
- Global, Food Choice Architecture and Nutrition Manager, Google, Mountain View, CA, USA
| | - Timothy Harlan
- School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, MA, USA
| | - Frank B Hu
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Maria Loi
- Loi Estiatorio and Loi Brand, New York, NY, USA
| | - James P McClung
- Military Nutrition Division, US Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Ken Toong
- University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | | | - Stefanos N Kales
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.,Occupational Medicine, Cambridge Health Alliance, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA
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22
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Karl JP, Margolis LM, Fallowfield JL, Child RB, Martin NM, McClung JP. Military nutrition research: Contemporary issues, state of the science and future directions. Eur J Sport Sci 2021; 22:87-98. [PMID: 33980120 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2021.1930192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The importance of diet and nutrition to military readiness and performance has been recognized for centuries as dietary nutrients sustain health, protect against illness, and promote resilience, performance and recovery. Contemporary military nutrition research is increasingly inter-disciplinary with emphasis often placed on the broad topics of (1) determining operational nutrition requirements in all environments, (2) characterizing nutritional practices of military personnel relative to the required (role/environment) standards, and (3) developing strategies for improving nutrient delivery and individual choices. This review discusses contemporary issues shared internationally by military nutrition research programmes, and highlights emerging topics likely to influence future military nutrition research and policy. Contemporary issues include improving the diet quality of military personnel, optimizing operational rations, and increasing understanding of biological factors influencing nutrient requirements. Emerging areas include the burgeoning field of precision nutrition and its technological enablers.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Philip Karl
- Military Nutrition Division, United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA, USA
| | - Lee M Margolis
- Military Nutrition Division, United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA, USA
| | - Joanne L Fallowfield
- Environmental Medicine and Science Division, Institute of Naval Medicine, Alverstoke, Hampshire, UK
| | - Robert B Child
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Nicola M Martin
- New Zealand Army, New Zealand Defence Force, Upper Hutt, New Zealand
| | - James P McClung
- Military Nutrition Division, United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA, USA
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23
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Jayne JM, Karl JP, McGraw SM, O'Connor K, DiChiara AJ, Cole RE. Eating Behaviors Are Associated With Physical Fitness and Body Composition Among US Army Soldiers. JOURNAL OF NUTRITION EDUCATION AND BEHAVIOR 2021; 53:480-488. [PMID: 33674236 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2021.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Examine associations between soldiers' eating behaviors, compliance with body composition and fitness standards, and physical performance. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Eight Army installations. PARTICIPANTS US Army Soldiers (n = 1,591; 84% male). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Characteristics, eating behaviors, compliance with body composition and physical fitness standards, and fitness level were assessed via questionnaire. ANALYSIS Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS Eating mostly at a dining facility was associated with lower odds of body composition failure (odds ratio [OR], 0.44; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.26-0.73); whereas, eating at a fast rate (OR, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.05-2.17) or often/always ignoring satiety cues (OR, 2.12; 95% CI, 1.06-4.27) was associated with higher odds of body composition failure. Eating mostly fast-food/convenience meals (OR, 1.75; 95% CI, 1.19-2.59) and eating at a fast rate (OR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.04-1.93) was associated with higher odds of physical fitness failure. Skipping breakfast was associated with lower odds of high physical performance (OR, 0.41; 95% CI, 0.23-0.74); whereas, nutrition education was associated with higher odds of high physical performance (OR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.01-1.04). CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS As eating behaviors are modifiable, findings suggest opportunities for improving the specificity of Army health promotion and education programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julianna M Jayne
- Military Nutrition Division, US Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA.
| | - J Philip Karl
- Military Nutrition Division, US Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA
| | - Susan M McGraw
- Military Nutrition Division, US Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA
| | - Kristie O'Connor
- Military Nutrition Division, US Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA
| | - Adam J DiChiara
- Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, US Army Soldier Systems Center, Natick, MA
| | - Renee E Cole
- US Military-Baylor University Graduate Program in Nutrition, Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, TX
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24
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Healthy Eating Index and Nutrition Biomarkers among Army Soldiers and Civilian Control Group Indicate an Intervention Is Necessary to Raise Omega-3 Index and Vitamin D and Improve Diet Quality. Nutrients 2020; 13:nu13010122. [PMID: 33396252 PMCID: PMC7823425 DOI: 10.3390/nu13010122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Diet quality and nutrition status are important for optimal health and military performance. Few studies have simultaneously evaluated diet quality and biochemical markers of nutritional status of military service members. The Healthy Eating Index (HEI) can be used to assess dietary quality and adherence to federal nutrition guidelines. The aim of this study was to assess soldiers' diet quality and nutritional status and compare results to a civilian control group. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted with 531 soldiers. A food frequency questionnaire was used to calculate HEI scores. A blood sample was collected for analysis of select nutrition biochemical markers. Non-parametric analyses were conducted to compare the diet quality and nutritional status of soldiers and controls. Differences in non-normally distributed variables were determined by using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. RESULTS Soldiers had an HEI score of 59.9 out of 100, marginally higher than the control group (55.4). Biochemical markers of interest were within normal reference values for soldiers, except for the omega-3 index and vitamin D. CONCLUSIONS This study identified dietary components that need improvement and deficits in biochemical markers among soldiers. Improving diet quality and nutritional status should lead to better health, performance, and readiness of the force.
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25
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Diet Quality of Elite Australian Athletes Evaluated Using the Athlete Diet Index. Nutrients 2020; 13:nu13010126. [PMID: 33396371 PMCID: PMC7823332 DOI: 10.3390/nu13010126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
While athletes’ nutrient intakes have been widely reported, few studies have assessed the diet quality of athletes. This is the first study to evaluate the diet quality of athletes using the purpose-built Athlete Diet Index (ADI). A convenience sample of 165 elite athletes from Australian sporting institutions completed the ADI online, with subsequent automated results provided to their respective accredited sports dietitians (ASDs). At the completion of athlete participation, ASDs (n = 12) responded to a range of survey items using a Likert scale (i.e., 1 = strongly agree to 5 = strongly disagree) to determine the suitability of the ADI in practice. Differences in ADI scores for demographics and sport-specific variables were investigated using independent t-tests, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Bonferroni multiple comparisons. Spearman’s rank correlation was used to assess the association between total scores and demographics. The mean total ADI score was 91.4 ± 12.2 (range 53–117, out of a possible 125). While there was no difference in total scores based on demographics or sport-specific variables; team sport athletes scored higher than individual sport athletes (92.7 vs. 88.5, p < 0.05). Athletes training fewer hours (i.e., 0–11 h/week) scored higher on Dietary Habits sub-scores compared with athletes training more hours (≥12 h/week; p < 0.05), suggesting that athletes who train longer may be at risk of a compromised dietary pattern or less than optimal nutrition practices that support training. Most (75%) ASDs surveyed strongly agreed with the perceived utility of the ADI for screening athletes and identifying areas for nutrition support, confirming its suitability for use in practice.
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26
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Vyas N, Cialdella-Kam L. Comparison of Energy and Nutrient Intake vs. Estimated Needs in Warfighters: an Update. Curr Nutr Rep 2020; 9:405-413. [PMID: 33118099 DOI: 10.1007/s13668-020-00336-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Active members of the military must perform optimally under conditions of thermal stress and/or energy deficiency. Military dietary reference intakes (MDRIs) provide guidelines for energy and nutrient intakes but is based studies largely conducted in Army. Needs may vary by service branch and/or position. New protein recommendations have emerged, which are not reflected in MDRIs. PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Compare reported dietary intake in active duty members to MDRIs and 2016 American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) sports nutrition guidelines. RECENT FINDINGS: Active duty members are not meeting their energy and carbohydrate needs with low-to-adequate protein intake and adequate-to-high fat intake. Other nutrients of concern are vitamin D, calcium, iron, B-vitamins, and fiber. Thermal stress increases energy needs and suppresses appetite and thus increase risk for energy and nutrition deficiencies. Energy and nutrients needs can vary by branch of armed service, job responsibility, and external stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Vyas
- Department of Nutrition, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Lynn Cialdella-Kam
- Department of Nutrition, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA. .,Warfighter Performance Department, Naval Health Research Center, 140 Sylvester Road, San Diego, CA, 92106, USA.
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27
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Association Between Diet Quality and Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Korean Adults: The 2014-2015 National Fitness Award Project. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12113226. [PMID: 33105591 PMCID: PMC7690257 DOI: 10.3390/nu12113226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is a strong and meaningful indicator for predicting mortality, including cardiovascular disease, as well as simple physical capacity. Healthy eating is thought to be one of the crucial factors associated with an individual’s CRF status, although little research has been done on the relationship between healthy eating and CRF. This study aimed to investigate the association between overall diet quality and CRF among Korean adults. The study involved 937 adults (380 men and 557 women) aged 19‒64 years who participated in the 2014‒2015 Korea Institute of Sports Science Fitness Standards project. Diet quality was assessed by the recommended food score (RFS), and CRF was determined by maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) during a treadmill exercise test. Multiple regression model analyses were stratified by age (19–34, 35–49, and 50–64 years) and sex, because both factors greatly influence CRF. After multivariate adjustment, only the 19‒34 age group in both sexes showed a positive association between RFS and VO2max. Additionally, when physical activity was adjusted, it was still significant in men but only marginally related in women. Our results suggest that better overall diet quality may be associated with a better CRF among young adults aged 19‒34 years in Korea.
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28
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A Review of US Army Research Contributing to Cognitive Enhancement in Military Contexts. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s41465-020-00167-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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