-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

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