Military Rations - - The North Carolina Connection

Researchers at NC State University in Raleigh work with the military to craft food rations that are healthier choices for the troops - - but are also tasty enough that they won't be rejected.

Soldiers aren’t the only ones who stand to gain from easier access to phytochemicals, Lila said. Athletes, outdoor enthusiasts and people trying to control their weight could also benefit.

In a recent clinical trial, student subjects from Appalachian State University were asked to consume a drink containing blueberry and green tea phytochemical extracts for 17 days. During the final three days of the project, they worked out intensely for 2.5 hours each day.

“We found that those who had been given a placebo returned to their normal metabolism shortly after the exercise sessions,” Lila said. “But those given the phytochemicals were still burning fat in their sleep.”