Abstract:Learning Outcome: Describe the 24-hour dietary recall data and estimate energy requirements in US Army Soldiers as part of the Military Health and Nutrition Examination Study (MHANES). Background: Nutritional readiness, one of the five domains of the Army Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) program, refers to Soldiers consuming foods to meet occupational demands. The objective of this analysis was to assess nutritional readiness in a representative sample of US Army Service Members. Methods: Cross-sectional data was collected at four military installations. Bodyweight and height were measured. Estimated energy requirements (EER) were calculated using the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) equations for energy and assuming a low active and active physical activity level. Dietary intake was assessed using the Automated Self-Administered 24-Hour (ASA24®) Dietary Assessment Tool and diet quality using the Healthy Eating Index (HEI). Results: Male (n=369, 29.8±7.9y, 88.7±14.4kg, 176±7cm) and female (n=140, 29.3±7.8y, 71.1±11.2kg, 164±6cm) participants with at least one complete dietary recall (88% with two recalls) reportedly consumed 2206±922 and 1692±690 kcal/d, respectively. In males, EER was 3044±251 (low active) and 3241±257 kcal/d (active). In females, EER was 2314±165 (low active) and 2453±166 kcal/d (active). Differences between reported energy intake and EER ranged from -2856 to 3720 kcal for low active males, -3059 to 3495 kcal for active males, -2000 to 2397 for low active females, and -2142 to 2257 kcal for active females. Intakes of dietary fiber and several vitamins and minerals were below the Military DRIs as evidenced by a low HEI score (49.6±11.4). Conclusion: HEI score was in the “poor” range, defined as < 50. Future efforts need to identify the extent of underreporting of dietary intakes to accurately capture energy and nutrient inadequacies.