Military personnel are a nation's first line of defence, fuelled by discipline, responsibility and … processed food.
New research from Southern Cross University unwraps how the military's reliance on fatty and packaged foods could be leading to sub-par performance and mental health problems.
The study , published in Nutrition Research Reviews, is the first international systematic literature review to assess the dietary intake and nutritional status of defence members worldwide.
The results showed a poor-to-fair diet quality in need of improvement. In particular, low intakes of fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, seafood, plant protein and nuts; while intakes of added sugars, trans fats and processed meat were high.
The review also found a suboptimal intake of nutrients, particularly fibre, essential fatty acids, vitamin A, vitamin E, folate, magnesium, zinc and iodine.
"The low intake of nutrients identified in this review is concerning, considering their importance in ensuring military readiness, optimal performance, recovery after training, physical exertion, and prevention of injury," said lead author Dr Jessica Bayes, a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Southern Cross University's National Centre for Naturopathic Centre.
The suboptimal intake of these vital nutrients may lead to reduced performance, increased risk of chronic diseases and mental health disorders.
"Across all populations, mounting evidence highlights the important role of diet and nutrition for mental health," said Dr Bayes.
"Given the unique challenges and stresses that accompany military life and the increased risk of mental health conditions among defence members, nutrition which supports mental wellbeing should be a priority."
Dr Bayes' research interests in nutritional psychiatry explores the intricate relationship between diet, lifestyle habits, and mental health in military populations and veterans.
Previous studies on military diets have primarily focused on the nutritional composition of field/combat rations and dietary intake during deployment. This study explored the diets of those not on the frontline but awaiting active duty.
"Our study shows more research is needed that explores the long-term consequences of poor diet quality in defence members while free-living or in garrison," said Dr Bayes.
"These results require the attention of policymakers to ensure that military education and general food environment supports defence personnel to pursue healthy eating."
Dr Bayes said she expected military personnel worldwide to be receptive to improvements in the range and quality of food being served on bases.
"We know they are interested in looking after their bodies and minds.
"An earlier study showed military personnel are already exploring complementary treatments and dietary supplements to treat chronic physical and mental health conditions."
New study explores diet quality and mental wellbeing in Australian veterans
Dr Bayes is delving further into this topic with a new survey that explores the link between diet quality and mental wellbeing in Australian ex-serving defence members. The Australasian Military Medicine Association (AMMA) is funding the study.
