1 Department of Theoretical Health Sciences and Health Management, Faculty of Health Sciences and Social Studies, University of Szeged, Temesvári Krt. 31, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary
2 Preventive Health Sciences Research Group, Incubation Competence Centre of the Centre of Excellence for Interdisciplinary Research, Development and Innovation of the University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary
From the beginning of space travel, ensuring the crew’s adequate food supply has been a significant concern. Naturally, the duration of the journey is a crucial factor, as there is a considerable difference between preparing for a short trip and a long-term space mission lasting several months.
The transportation of food, its nutrient content, and its shelf life are essential considerations. Additionally, space environment’s unique impact on nutrient absorption and the potential for increased nutrient loss must be taken into account. When designing space meals, ensuring both safety and proper nutrient intake is paramount, along with considering the psychological aspects of nutrition.
A key requirement is that space food should be tasty, varied, and fresh while generating minimal waste. Space environment affects digestion and alters the physiological processes the body is accustomed to under Earth’s gravity. The energy demands of rigorous exercise routines in space also influence nutrition, as physical training requires higher energy intake.
During space travel, various modifying factors impact the human body, such as radiation, microgravity, and psychological stress, leading to physiological changes. These effects can be mitigated through proper nutrition and medication. The lecture examines the physiological changes occurring during spaceflight across different organ systems and explores nutritional and pharmaceutical strategies devised to counteract these catabolic processes. Particular focus is given to bone and muscle loss, cardiac muscle atrophy, changes in the microbiome and immune system, along with potential psychological effects, as similar phenomena can also be seen in the care of chronically ill patients.
Keywords: space nutrition, nutritional strategies, long-term space tasks