-12-
of other areas is probably not meaningful.
The gross per-
centage composition indicates that the diets are generally
low in fat,
protein and ash but fairly high in carbohydrate
content.
Comparing the data in Table 3 with recommended daily
dietary allowances as published by the Food and Nutrition
Board of the National Research Council
it appears that the
24-hour food rations of the Rongelapese are generally below
the recommended level for protein.
Since fat allowances are
based at present more on food habits than
requirements,
on physiological
no definite conclusion can be drawn regarding
the apparently low fat content of these diets.
The habitat
of the Rongelapese probably does not demand a high-energy diet,
which may partially justify the lower fat intake.
The calcium content of the 24-hour ration seems to be
much lower than the suggested normal requirement
Data,
1958).
On the same basis,
(National
the magnesium levels seem to
be adequate but the phosphorous levels are far below what is
necessary to maintain a proper calcium phosphorous balance in
a good diet.
normal
The sodium levels appear to be slightly below the
suggested intake
levels,
although no information is
available as to the minimum daily requirement of sodium.
potassium
level is
lower than the
generally the case in most diets.
sodium content,
The
which is