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Nutrition and human physiological adaptations to space flight
H W Lane1, A D LeBlanc, L Putcha
1Biomedical Operations and Research Branch, NASA-Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX 77058.
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
|November 1, 1993
Summary
Spaceflight alters body composition and function, impacting nutrient needs. Dietary strategies can help astronauts adapt to these physiological changes during space missions.
Area of Science:
- Space medicine
- Human physiology
- Nutritional science
Background:
- Spaceflight presents unique physiological stresses for healthy individuals.
- Understanding these adaptations is crucial for astronaut health and performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review physiological adaptations to weightlessness and their impact on nutrient and food requirements.
- To explore how dietary countermeasures can mitigate these effects.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of physiological changes during spaceflight.
- Analysis of effects on fluid, electrolyte, energy, protein, and mineral metabolism.
- Examination of sensory and gastrointestinal alterations.
Main Results:
- Weightlessness causes fluid and electrolyte imbalances affecting renal and cardiovascular systems.
- Muscle and bone mass loss alter energy, protein, and calcium requirements.
- Space motion sickness and neurosensory changes can affect appetite and nutrient absorption.
Conclusions:
- Physiological adaptations to spaceflight significantly modify nutrient and food requirements.
- Dietary countermeasures are essential for managing these changes and supporting astronaut health.