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A Method for Manipulating Blood Glucose and Measuring Resulting Changes in Cognitive Accessibility of Target Stimuli
Published on: August 12, 2016
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Do Glucose and Caffeine Nasal Sprays Influence Exercise or Cognitive Performance?
International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance
|February 10, 2017
Summary
Glucose nasal spray (NAS) significantly improved endurance performance by activating sensory pathways. Caffeine or glucose NAS did not enhance cognitive or physiological measures, suggesting higher doses may be needed.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Neuroscience
- Sports Nutrition
Background:
- Nasal spray (NAS) administration of caffeine (CAF) or glucose (GLUC) has been shown to activate sensory and motor cortices.
- Understanding novel routes for ergogenic aids is crucial for performance enhancement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of glucose (GLUC) or caffeine (CAF) nasal spray (NAS) on exercise performance and cognitive function.
- To explore the potential of NAS as an ergogenic aid delivery method.
Main Methods:
- Eleven male subjects completed a cycle ergometer test including a Wingate test and a 30-min time trial (TT).
- Cognitive performance was assessed using the Stroop task before and after exercise.
- Participants received placebo, GLUC, or CAF nasal spray before exercise and during the TT.
Main Results:
- Glucose nasal spray (GLUC NAS) significantly enhanced average power output during the time trial (TT), indicating a substantial benefit to endurance performance.
- Neither caffeine (CAF) nor glucose (GLUC) nasal spray (NAS) demonstrated significant improvements in physiological or cognitive measures.
- The ergogenic effect of GLUC NAS is likely mediated by the activation of the olfactory pathway and/or extra-oral sweet-taste receptors.
Conclusions:
- Glucose nasal spray (GLUC NAS) represents a novel and effective route for enhancing endurance performance.
- The observed ergogenic effect is likely linked to increased sensory brain cortex activity.
- Further research is needed to determine optimal substrate doses for physiological and cognitive enhancements via nasal administration.
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