Author
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Lukaski, Henry |
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Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter Publication Acceptance Date: 7/26/2005 Publication Date: 3/22/2006 Citation: Lukaski, H.C. 2006. Zinc, magnesium, and copper requirements and exercise. In: Institute of Medicine of the National Academies, editors. Mineral Requirements for Military Personnel: Levels Needed for Cognitive and Physical Performance During Garrison Training. Washington, DC: National Academies Press. p. 436-451. Interpretive Summary: Soldiers in training and field operations reduce intake of rations (food) because of exposure to intense physical, mental and environmental stressors. Assessments of nutrient intake during these activities reveal that zinc and magnesium intakes are less than recommended for military personnel. This paper describes the physiological effects of restriction and supplementation of these minerals, as well as copper, that are of interest to the military. Findings in soldiers and physically active adults indicate increased losses of zinc and magnesium in sweat and urine with exercise. However, assessments of adaptations in absorption under these conditions are lacking. The adverse effects of restricted intakes of these minerals, determined in either observational studies relating mineral intake or status with function or controlled depletion and repletion studies and measures of function in men, are similar to the findings of decreased physical performance observed in soldiers during training. An assessment of adequacy of zinc content of military rations for soldiers during training in a hot environment suggests that zinc losses exceed current dietary zinc intakes. Models describing the effects of exercise on zinc and magnesium metabolism during aerobic exercise are presented. There is a clear need to determine mineral intakes and excretions in relation to performance of soldiers during simulated operations to establish recommendations. This information will be useful to food scientists and military leaders who are actively working to develop a new first assault ration that will promote the health and performance of male soldiers participating in intense field operations. Technical Abstract: Soldiers in training and field operations reduce intake of rations (food) because of exposure to intense physical, mental and environmental stressors. Assessments of nutrient intake during these activities reveal that zinc and magnesium intakes are less than recommended for military personnel. This paper describes the physiological effects of restriction and supplementation of these minerals, as well as copper, that are of interest to the military. Findings in soldiers and physically active adults indicate increased losses of zinc and magnesium in sweat and urine with exercise. However, assessments of adaptations in absorption under these conditions are lacking. The adverse effects of restricted intakes of these minerals, determined in either observational studies relating mineral intake or status with function or controlled depletion and repletion studies and measures of function in men, are similar to the findings of decreased physical performance observed in soldiers during training. An assessment of adequacy of zinc content of military rations for soldiers during training in a hot environment suggests that zinc losses exceed current dietary zinc intakes. Models describing the effects of exercise on zinc and magnesium metabolism during aerobic exercise are presented. There is a clear need to determine mineral intakes and excretions in relation to performance of soldiers during simulated operations to establish recommendations. This information will be useful to food scientists and military leaders who are actively working to develop a new first assault ration that will promote the health and performance of male soldiers participating in intense field operations. |
