Role of Nutrition in Human Adaptation to Microgravity in Space: Emerging Trends

Abstract

<p>Moving on from the profile suggesting dietary intake levels for maintaining healthiness to counteracting the effects of micro gravity, the nutritional sciences research is observing a compounding challenge given the space flights getting longer and complexity of the missions getting intensely greater. Nutritional research in space and ground based protocols has largely studied the intake of energy, protein, water, iron, calcium, sodium, potassium and vitamin D. Determining the dietary intake and corresponding role of dietary nutrients in counteracting the adverse physiological effects of micro gravity has paved a way for the formulation of optimal dietary needs of various macro and micro nutrients under the arena of scientific study. Concurrently, the space food menu has experienced an evolution from unappetizing, difficult to process and limited food options to a prolific and elaborate food system. The achievable food systems for the crew and their constructiveness in ensuring the healthiness, productiveness and spirit play an essential role in the prosperity of space missions. Scaling the height of inquisitiveness, the space scientists of today’s age are charting the mars missions which may last up to 3 years, novel food systems are imperative for the success of the future space exploration missions. Endeavors to grow the fresh produce on the space platters have already sprouted fruitfully and genetically modified crops are being looked at as potential alternative food system in outer space.</p>