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Updated: Jan 22, 2026

Determining Basal Energy Expenditure and the Capacity of Thermogenic Adipocytes to Expend Energy in Obese Mice
Published on: November 11, 2021
Energy Expenditure Exceeds Nutritional Intake of ROTC Members During a Field Training Exercise
Katherine A Frick1, Nicholas C Bordonie1, Katie G Clouse1
1Warrior Research Center, Auburn University, 301 Wire Rd, Auburn, AL 36832, USA.
Abstract:
Background: Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) Cadets undergo biannual Field Training Exercises (FTX) that impose substantial physiological demands, necessitating adequate nutritional intake to support performance and recovery. Methods: Energy Expenditure (EE) measured by actigraphy and self-reported nutritional intake (NI) of ROTC Cadets during a Fall FTX were obtained and compared to Military Dietary Reference Intake (MDRI) guidelines. Energy balance and nutrient adequacy were assessed using paired sample t-tests. Results: Cadets demonstrated significant caloric deficits, consuming fewer kilocalories than both their active metabolic rate (t = -12.07, df = 42, p < 0.001) and Low Energy Availability thresholds (t = 6.47, df = 57.54, p < 0.001). Macronutrient analysis revealed widespread deficiencies. Neither male nor female cadets met minimum carbohydrate gram recommendations. Protein intake in grams was significantly below MDRI guidelines for 94% of males (t = -10.03, p < 0.001) and 90% of females (t = -4.62, p = 0.001). Fat intake was generally adequate for all cadets, with 94% of males (t = 6.50, p < 0.001) and 90% of females (t = 4.19, p = 0.002) meeting or exceeding recommended fat intake. Conclusions: These findings underscore the prevalence of under-fueling during FTX and highlight the need for improved nutritional strategies to mitigate energy deficits and support cadet performance and health.
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