Rations in cold Arctic environments: recent American military experiences

The provision of an adequate diet is important to the success of any military operation, even more so when the rigors of a cold environment are imposed. Drawing on recent US military experiences, this article looks at some of the nutritional criteria to be considered and at lessons learned from recent field studies. Research to date suggests that, in order to support additional energy expenditure and to provide an adequate diet, 4500 kcal (18.83 MJ) per man per day are required. It is difficult to be precise about the optimum ratios of protein, fat, and carbohydrate; recommendations are made from the literature rather than from experimental evidence. Protein and salt might need to be further restricted, particularly when water supplies are limited. Little convincing evidence is available to demonstrate an increased tolerance to cold resulting from intakes of vitamins and minerals over and above recommended levels. Approximately 3 liters of water per man per day must be considered as a working minimum.