Being in space for three to five months, without Earth’s gravity and with muscles losing mass, greatly affects the astronaut’s body. To avoid problems, in addition to exercises, a balanced diet is recommended.
NASA establishes a road map for its astronauts which, although they differ in amounts depending on the texture, has an established regularity.
We are going to see what is the space diet for NASA astronauts, the type of food they follow to stay in good physical condition and avoid the natural deterioration of microgravity.
Astronauts eat three times a day: breakfast, lunch and dinner. The intention of the nutritionists of the North American Aerospace Agency is that foods provide a balance of vitamins and minerals.
According to NASA, the caloric requirements are different for each crew member of the International Space Station. For example, a small woman would need about 1,900 calories a day, while a taller man would require about 3,200.
The most recommended food for NASA astronauts
What is the most recommended food for astronauts? There isn’t just one: the goal is for each of them to feel satisfied with the taste and also to stay in shape, of course.
A crew member on the International Space Station can choose from fruit, nuts, peanut butter, chicken, beef, seafood, candy, and brownies.
Among the drinks available are coffee, tea, orange juice, fruit punches and lemonade.
Condiments such as ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise are also available to add flavor to meals.
What are the main prohibitions in food?
We already know that it is forbidden to eat white bread on the ISS, in addition to alcohol, for reasons that range from the care of the equipment to the health and responsibility of the astronauts.
They also can’t sprinkle salt and pepper on their food in space, as they would float, clogging air vents, contaminating equipment, or ending up in an astronaut’s eyes, mouth, or nose. The seasonings are presented in liquid form.
Some foods occur naturally, but others require the addition of water, such as macaroni and spaghetti, NASA explains. The International Space Station has an oven to heat food, although it does not have refrigerators.
Therefore, food must be stored and prepared properly to prevent it from spoiling.
We imagine astronauts back to Earth kissing their kitchen floor knowing they can enjoy a meal without as many restrictions as in space.