C. Frank Consolazio

The uses of recommended dietary allowances in military nutrition

THE SOLDIER is a member of a selected group of the population whose nutrition requires careful planning. Many of his activities may be as sedentary as similar occupations in civilian life. His work may be clerical, driving light vehicles, performing hospital ward duty, and so forth. On the other hand, his activities may be very heavy, as in basic training, maneuvers, and combat. In the course of his duties the soldier may be exposed to extremes of heat or cold. If a recruit, he may still be growing, since the majority of inductees are under 25 years of age. The soldiers diet, therefore, requires careful planning for the maintenance of health and well-being under a wide range of activity and environment. The purpose of this article will be: (1) to discuss the Armys basic dietary standards and their relation to the Army Master Menu, (2) to review briefly the history of military nutrition in our Army, and (3) to discuss the soldiers nutrient intake and requirements and their relation to the recommended dietary allowances of the National Research Council.