Analysis of nutritional supply for personnel wintering-over at Syowa Station, Antarctica(JARE-39)

Abstract

The nutritional supply of wintering personnel at Syowa Station was analyzed throughout the year 1998. Analysis was performed employing digital pictures of food chosen and consumed by one of the station personnel (medical doctor: male) throughout the year. Food consumption was estimated from the pictures, and energy and nutrient consumption were determined using food-content software. The average daily food value was calculated for every month, and compared with the nutritional standard for normal Japanese citizens. Mean energy consumption was significantly higher in January, when outdoor activities were required, and significantly lower in June, when outdoor activities were lower due to the polar night. Protein (P) and fat (F) intake were higher and carbohydrate (C) was less than the Recommended Daily Amounts for Japanese throughout the year. The consumption of Vitamin C was highest in April, and showed lower values after June. Sodium chloride intake showed an increasing trend throughout the year, possibly due to increased use of preserved food. The supply of fiber was about 50% of the recommended amount for Japanese, possibly due to the limited supply of fresh vegetables and fruit.