Page 55 - Journal of Special Operations Medicine - Winter 2015

Figure 2 Comprehensive performance nutrition program concept.

is a plausible link. Data support diets with a lower over-the-counter analgesic drugs, physical exertion, men-
omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratio, and those supple- tal anxiety, local ischemia, and extreme environmental
14
mented with omega-3 fish oils, for mental health and conditions, increase oxidative stress, which has been
beneficial immune system modulation, 15–17 though this linked to several diseases and conditions and to altered
24
modulation has proven difficult to directly associate immune function. Consumption of foods rich in anti-
with enhancement of task-specific performance out- oxidants and other phytonutrients have been shown to
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comes. Based on these data, Special Operators should lessen oxidative stress. 24,25 Special Operators should con-
increase intake of foods high in omega-3 fatty acids sume a variety of whole grains, tea, and deep-colored
from marine and plant sources. Plant sources high in fruits and vegetables to ensure an adequate and balanced
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one type of omega-3 fatty acid known as alpha-linolenic intake of antioxidants and other phytonutrients. The
acid (ALA), such as rapeseed/canola and soybean oils, beneficial synergistic effects of antioxidants and other
flaxseeds, and walnuts, can improve the overall dietary phytonutrients with dietary fiber make the consumption
omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acid ratio. However, the poor of whole foods the preferred method of acquiring these
conversion rate of ALA to the more biologically active compounds in the diet. 27,28
forms of omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid
(EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), make marine In the context of foundational health, scientific evidence
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sources a better option. Special Operators should con- supports the use of dietary supplements for the treat-
sume EPA/DHA-containing fish such as cod, mackerel, ment of nutrient deficiencies such as iron and vitamin
pollock, redfish, wild salmon, and tuna weekly. 20,21 D, 29,30 but there appears to be minimal, if any, benefit to
When consumption of dietary sources of omega-3 fatty indiscriminate, all-encompassing, multivitamin/mineral
acids is not feasible, daily supplementation of no more or antioxidant supplementation in an active population
than 2g of EPA/DHA per day is recommended. 21–23 for health, 31,32 even in those with suboptimal nutrition
34
status 32,33 or for performance. Some individual dietary
In addition to systemic inflammation, several pro-oxida- supplements, however, do have evidence to support en-
tive factors typical to Special Operators, such as common hancement of actual physical or mental performance

Comprehensive Performance Nutrition for SOF 43