A 1995 study found that body iron stores were low for 56% of soldiers before basic combat training (BCT) and decreased further to 84% by graduation. Anemia was correlated with poorer physical training performance. Vitamin B levels were in the low normal range before BCT and decreased significantly during training. The BCT menu provided adequate calories but was inadequate in several key vitamins and minerals including vitamin B6, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc. Improvements to the BCT nutrition program were recommended.