Effect of Ration Formulations on Warfighter Energy Balance and Physical Performance During a Field Training Exercise
The goal of this randomized clinical trial is to determine the effects of consuming the Close Combat Assault Ration (CCAR) compared to the First Strike Ration (FSR) during a 7-day strenuous military training on energy intake and energy balance in healthy, Active Duty Warfighters.

The main questions it aims to answer are:

Will consuming the CCAR result in lower energy intake or energy balance compared to consumption of the FSR?
Will consuming the CCAR result in lower lower body strength or anaerobic power compared to consuming the FSR?
Will those consuming the CCAR report lower ration acceptability or greater gastrointestinal side effects compared to those consuming the FSR?

Participants will be asked to consume either the CCAR or FSR as the sole nutrition source during a 7-day field training exercise (FTX). The vertical jump test, running-based anaerobic sprint test, and lower-body strength pull will be conducted pre and post the 7-day FTX to assess physical performance. Energy expenditure and intake will be measured by the doubly-labelled water method and dietary logs, respectively. Surveys will be completed to assess ration acceptability and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Researchers will compare the CCAR and FSR groups to see if their consumption impacted energy intake, energy balance, physical performance, ration acceptance, or gastrointestinal side effects.
- EligibilityCriteria: Inclusion Criteria:  Active-duty male or female military personnel who are actively participating in the 7-day strenuous military training exercise. Willing to consume only foods/beverages provided by study staff during the training exercise, except for coffee and water.  Exclusion Criteria:  Any injury or health condition limiting full participation in the 7-day Field Training Exercise. Any food allergy, lactose intolerance, or vegetarian practices. Not willing to participate in all study procedures. - HealthyVolunteers: Accepts Healthy Volunteers - Gender: All - StdAgeList: Child, Adult, Older Adult