Ref ID:	34493
Ref Type:	Journal Article
Authors:	Speth, John D. Spielmann, Katherine A.
Title:	Energy source, protein metabolism, and hunter-gatherer subsistence strategies
Date:	1983
Source:	Journal of Anthropological Archaeology
DOI:	10.1016/0278-4165(83)90006-5
Abstract:	During times of food shortages in the temperate, subartic, and artic regions it is noted that when food storage begins to dwindle lean meat becomes the principal source of energy. This results in nutritional problems associated with high-protein, low-energy diets. Under certain conditions, selection may favor a permanent shift in the subsistence strategies of H-G toward greater emphasis on carbohydrates resources. The use of large quantities of lean meat has nutritional costs, including elevated metabolic rates, higher caloric requirements and deficiencies in essential fatty acids. It is suggested that there are three strategies that can achieve these results: 1) an increase in the selection and procurement of smaller animals with high fat content 2) storage of fat- and carbohydrate-rich foods 3) an exchange of these items with other groups.
Date Created:	7/5/2001
Volume:	2
Number:	1
Page Start:	1
Page End:	31