The United Kingdom's Ministry of Defence has issued new guidance for female service members, recommending they consume twice as many calories and prioritize at least seven hours of sleep to enhance their performance in physically demanding military roles. This update comes as the military opens more frontline units, including the Parachute Regiment and Royal Marines, to women.
Historically, female troops have faced scrutiny regarding their physical capacity for frontline service. While the rules have evolved to allow women into these units, success has largely been limited to those with elite sporting backgrounds. Captain Rosie Wild, who in 2020 became the first woman to pass P Company—a rigorous assessment for airborne forces—highlighted the challenge. Wild has since transitioned to a professional triathlete.
To address the challenges faced by servicewomen and increase their numbers in elite regiments, defense officials have introduced revised guidelines informed by the latest scientific understanding of physical performance. The updated advice suggests women consume up to 3,500 calories daily, a significant increase from previous recommendations, and incorporate 30 grams of high-quality protein to support muscle development. Enhanced sleep is also emphasized, as experts note that fewer than six hours of sleep can increase injury risk and menstrual cycle disruption. Females averaging six hours of sleep face a fourfold increase in illness risk and more than double the injury risk compared to those sleeping seven hours.
The guidance also highlights the prevalence of menstrual cycle irregularities among servicewomen. Approximately one in four non-pregnant women in military service experience irregular or absent periods, and half report heavy menstrual bleeding, both indicators of hormonal imbalances that can impair performance. Increased intake of iron and Vitamin D is also advised.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Defence plans to continue investing in equipment specifically designed for women, such as backpacks, to mitigate the higher risk of hip and shin injuries observed in female personnel.
Minister for Veterans and People, Calvin Bailey MBE MP, stated that warfighting readiness depends on the preparation of all personnel. He acknowledged that while women have historically met tough standards, they have often lacked tailored support. Bailey expressed pride in the new guidance, describing it as a landmark initiative for UK Defence that aims to provide servicewomen with evidence-based support to perform optimally and succeed in the most demanding roles. He added that this effort is part of a commitment to ensure that talent, rather than background or barriers, dictates career progression within the Armed Forces.