Influence of a carbohydrate drink on nutritional status, body composition and mood during desert training

Background: Nutritional intake by military personnel is typically inadequat e during field exercises, potentially compromising health and performance. Hypothesis: Drinking a supplemental carbohydrate (CHO) beverage will increa se total caloric intake and maintain nutritional status during military tra ining in the desert. Methods: A total of 63 volunteers were randomly assign ed to one of two groups to receive either a CHO or placebo beverage with mi litary rations during an 11-d desert field exercise. Fluid intake was ad li bitum and adequate rations were provided. Blood samples were collected twic e to assess nutritional status, and nutrient intake was determined with con sumption data. Mood state was examined by questionnaire. Results: Energy in take was significantly higher in the CHO group (3050 kcal.d(-1) vs. 2631 kc al.d(-1)), with additional CHO from the beverage providing energy with some compensation by reduced fat and protein intake. Intakes of energy, folacin , calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc in both groups were inadequate, with i ntakes significantly lower (p < 0.05) for calcium, magnesium, and zinc in t he CHO beverage group. Blood parameters of nutritional status remained with in normal ranges with no differences between groups, but significant decrea ses were seen in pre-albumin. No changes in mood were seen during the train ing, nor after exposure to desert conditions. Conclusions: The operational ration supplemented with a CHO beverage significantly increases CHO and ene rgy intakes compared with standard rations and maintains nutritional status for short exercises. Fortification with micronutrients most at risk for de ficient intake from foods may be needed for longer deployments.