Food values : practical tables for use in private practice and public institutions / by Edwin A. Locke.

  • Locke, Edwin Allen, 1874-
Date:
1911
Catalogue details

Licence: In copyright

Credit: Food values : practical tables for use in private practice and public institutions / by Edwin A. Locke. Source: Wellcome Collection.

    24/128 (page 12)
    While it is fairly generally conceded that the average man at work requires approximately 3,000 calories daily, there is a wide divergence of opinion as to the relative amounts of the protein, carbohydrates and fats best suited to furnish these needs. Unfortunately physiologi- cal experiments are frequently not in accord with the results of actual studies of the diet taken by individuals of different races and under varying conditions. While the question cannot at present be finally settled, the pro- portions of nutrients taken by the average person is probably the safest guard. These figures are, roughly, 150 grams fat, 100 grams protein, and 350 grams carbo- hydrates per diem. The most important question is as to the quantity of protein best suited to the needs of the average indi- vidual. In spite of very numerous experiments by many eminent physiologists as well as careful studies regard- ing the amount consumed by various races and classes, it still remains an open question. The work of Chitten- den and others proves that health may be maintained under the ordinary conditions of life for a long period on a daily ingestion of proteids even as low as 50 grams daily. It has not been shown, however, that such a low proteid content is an advantage or if continued indefi- nitely may not work injuriously. A large excess of pro- tein taken with a diet rich in fats and carbohydrates, especially with hard muscular work, is, as a rule, well tolerated, observations having been made frequently where more than 200 grams of protein were taken daily and well tolerated. Without an ample supply of fats and carbohydrates, however, an excess of protein leads to severe digestive disturbances and must be regarded as