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Costache AD, Ignat BE, Grosu C, Mastaleru A, Abdulan I, Oancea A, Roca M, Leon MM, Badescu MC, Luca S, Jigoranu AR, Chetran A, Mitu O, Costache II, Mitu F. Inflammatory Pathways in Overweight and Obese Persons as a Potential Mechanism for Cognitive Impairment and Earlier Onset Alzeihmer's Dementia in the General Population: A Narrative Review. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3233. [PMID: 38137454 PMCID: PMC10741501 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The overweight status or obesity can be confirmed through classical methods such as the body mass index (BMI) and the waist-to-hip ratio (WHR). Apart from metabolic issues such as atherosclerosis, liver steatosis, or diabetes mellitus, long-term obesity or overweight status can pose a risk for cardiovascular and neurovascular complications. While some acute adverse events like coronary syndromes of strokes are well-documented to be linked to an increased body mass, there are also chronic processes that, due to their silent onset and evolution, are underdiagnosed and not as thoroughly studied. Through this review, we aimed to collect all relevant data with regard to the long-term impact of obesity on cognitive function in all ages and its correlation with an earlier onset of dementia such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). The exact mechanisms through which a decline in cognitive functions occurs in overweight or obese persons are still being discussed. A combination of factors has been acknowledged as potential triggers, such as a sedentary lifestyle and stress, as well as a genetic predisposition, for example, the apolipoprotein E (ApoE) alleles in AD. Most research highlights the impact of vascular dysfunction and systemic inflammation on the nervous system in patients with obesity and the subsequent neurological changes. Obesity during the early to mid-ages leads to an earlier onset of cognitive dysfunction in various forms. Also, lifestyle intervention can reverse cognitive dysfunction, especially dieting, to encourage weight loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandru Dan Costache
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.C.); (A.M.); (I.A.); (A.O.); (M.R.); (M.M.L.); (M.C.B.); (S.L.); (A.R.J.); (A.C.); (O.M.); (I.I.C.); (F.M.)
- Clinical Rehabilitation Hospital, 700661 Iasi, Romania
| | - Bogdan Emilian Ignat
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.C.); (A.M.); (I.A.); (A.O.); (M.R.); (M.M.L.); (M.C.B.); (S.L.); (A.R.J.); (A.C.); (O.M.); (I.I.C.); (F.M.)
- Clinical Rehabilitation Hospital, 700661 Iasi, Romania
| | - Cristina Grosu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.C.); (A.M.); (I.A.); (A.O.); (M.R.); (M.M.L.); (M.C.B.); (S.L.); (A.R.J.); (A.C.); (O.M.); (I.I.C.); (F.M.)
- Clinical Rehabilitation Hospital, 700661 Iasi, Romania
| | - Alexandra Mastaleru
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.C.); (A.M.); (I.A.); (A.O.); (M.R.); (M.M.L.); (M.C.B.); (S.L.); (A.R.J.); (A.C.); (O.M.); (I.I.C.); (F.M.)
- Clinical Rehabilitation Hospital, 700661 Iasi, Romania
| | - Irina Abdulan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.C.); (A.M.); (I.A.); (A.O.); (M.R.); (M.M.L.); (M.C.B.); (S.L.); (A.R.J.); (A.C.); (O.M.); (I.I.C.); (F.M.)
- Clinical Rehabilitation Hospital, 700661 Iasi, Romania
| | - Andra Oancea
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.C.); (A.M.); (I.A.); (A.O.); (M.R.); (M.M.L.); (M.C.B.); (S.L.); (A.R.J.); (A.C.); (O.M.); (I.I.C.); (F.M.)
- Clinical Rehabilitation Hospital, 700661 Iasi, Romania
| | - Mihai Roca
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.C.); (A.M.); (I.A.); (A.O.); (M.R.); (M.M.L.); (M.C.B.); (S.L.); (A.R.J.); (A.C.); (O.M.); (I.I.C.); (F.M.)
- Clinical Rehabilitation Hospital, 700661 Iasi, Romania
| | - Maria Magdalena Leon
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.C.); (A.M.); (I.A.); (A.O.); (M.R.); (M.M.L.); (M.C.B.); (S.L.); (A.R.J.); (A.C.); (O.M.); (I.I.C.); (F.M.)
- Clinical Rehabilitation Hospital, 700661 Iasi, Romania
| | - Minerva Codruta Badescu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.C.); (A.M.); (I.A.); (A.O.); (M.R.); (M.M.L.); (M.C.B.); (S.L.); (A.R.J.); (A.C.); (O.M.); (I.I.C.); (F.M.)
- “St. Spiridon” Emergency County Hospital, 700111 Iasi, Romania
| | - Stefana Luca
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.C.); (A.M.); (I.A.); (A.O.); (M.R.); (M.M.L.); (M.C.B.); (S.L.); (A.R.J.); (A.C.); (O.M.); (I.I.C.); (F.M.)
- “St. Spiridon” Emergency County Hospital, 700111 Iasi, Romania
| | - Alexandru Raul Jigoranu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.C.); (A.M.); (I.A.); (A.O.); (M.R.); (M.M.L.); (M.C.B.); (S.L.); (A.R.J.); (A.C.); (O.M.); (I.I.C.); (F.M.)
- “St. Spiridon” Emergency County Hospital, 700111 Iasi, Romania
| | - Adriana Chetran
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.C.); (A.M.); (I.A.); (A.O.); (M.R.); (M.M.L.); (M.C.B.); (S.L.); (A.R.J.); (A.C.); (O.M.); (I.I.C.); (F.M.)
- “St. Spiridon” Emergency County Hospital, 700111 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ovidiu Mitu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.C.); (A.M.); (I.A.); (A.O.); (M.R.); (M.M.L.); (M.C.B.); (S.L.); (A.R.J.); (A.C.); (O.M.); (I.I.C.); (F.M.)
- “St. Spiridon” Emergency County Hospital, 700111 Iasi, Romania
| | - Irina Iuliana Costache
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.C.); (A.M.); (I.A.); (A.O.); (M.R.); (M.M.L.); (M.C.B.); (S.L.); (A.R.J.); (A.C.); (O.M.); (I.I.C.); (F.M.)
- “St. Spiridon” Emergency County Hospital, 700111 Iasi, Romania
| | - Florin Mitu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.C.); (A.M.); (I.A.); (A.O.); (M.R.); (M.M.L.); (M.C.B.); (S.L.); (A.R.J.); (A.C.); (O.M.); (I.I.C.); (F.M.)
- Clinical Rehabilitation Hospital, 700661 Iasi, Romania
- Romanian Academy of Medical Sciences, 927180 Bucharest, Romania
- Romanian Academy of Scientists, 050044 Bucharest, Romania
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Gibson-Moore H, Spiro A, Stanner S. No food for thought-How important is breakfast to the health, educational attainment and wellbeing of school-aged children and young people? NUTR BULL 2023; 48:458-481. [PMID: 37986635 DOI: 10.1111/nbu.12652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
There have been reports from teachers of pupils in the United Kingdom arriving at school hungry. Poor nutritional intake during childhood can increase the risk of developing both short- and long-term health problems. Breakfast consumption has been associated with several outcomes including better diet quality and healthier weight status. Nevertheless, skipping breakfast is a frequent behaviour in young people, particularly adolescents, and those from lower socio-economic groups, who are less likely to meet dietary recommendations and nutritional targets. The aim of this narrative review is to explore the contribution of breakfast consumption at home or at school and the impact of breakfast skipping on nutrient intakes in school-aged children (aged 4-18 years), and their effect on weight and cardiometabolic health. We will also summarise evidence for a link with cognitive function and educational attainment. A broadly positive effect of breakfast intake on diet quality, weight status and school-related outcomes was found in the literature, although inconsistencies in findings and methodological limitations within the evidence base are notable. Further research is warranted to better understand impact of breakfast intake and school breakfast provision on longer-term learning, educational attainment and health outcomes. This also needs to consider the cost benefit, type of breakfast and any unintended consequences such as encouraging multiple breakfasts. Breakfast consumption could improve the nutritional intakes of the most vulnerable young people and may help to address inequalities in educational outcomes at least in the short term.
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de Rijk MG, van Eekelen APJ, Boesveldt S, Kaldenberg E, Holwerda T, Lansink CJM, Feskens EJM, de Vries JHM. Macronutrient intake and alertness during night shifts - the time interval matters. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1245420. [PMID: 38024340 PMCID: PMC10665514 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1245420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Working night shifts is associated with higher safety risks due to shift work-related fatigue. Nutrition, especially certain (macro) nutrient compositions, has been suggested to reduce fatigue, however, results of studies are contradictory. This could be explained by differences in the time interval investigated between the consumption of a meal and measurement of cognitive performance. Therefore, this observational study investigated the association between macronutrient intake and objective alertness at different time intervals during the night shift in nurses. Methods 128 nurses, aged 20-61 years, completed an alertness test (Psychomotor Vigilance Task) during the night shift and a 24-h dietary recall after the night shift. This was repeated three times, always on the first night shift in a night shift series. The associations between macronutrient intake 0 to 1, 1 to 2, and 2 to 3 h before the PVT with alertness during the night shift were analyzed through Linear Mixed Models. The basic model was adjusted for age and gender and the adjusted model additionally for BMI, start time of PVT and energy and caffeine intake during the relevant time interval. Results Protein intake was not associated with objective alertness levels, while fat and carbohydrates intake had opposite associations with objective alertness levels over similar time intervals. Fat intake up to 1 h prior to the PVT was borderline associated with a longer median reaction time (RT) (ß = 9.00 ms/10 g fat, 95% CI: -0.21, 18.20), while a higher carbohydrate intake up to 1 h prior to the PVT was borderline associated with shorter median RTs (ß = -3.89, 95% CI: -7.85, 0.06). A higher fat intake 2 to 3 h prior to the PVT was associated with less lapses (log transformed ß = -0.16; 95% CI: -0.31, -0.02), while a higher carbohydrate intake 2 to 3 h prior to the PVT was associated with more lapses (ß = 0.06, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.12). Conclusion Our results contribute to understanding the association between macronutrient intake, as part of a mixed meal, and alertness levels. Conflicting results from previous studies may probably be due to time differences between macronutrient intake and alertness testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariëlle G. de Rijk
- Division of Human Nutrition and Health, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | | | - Sanne Boesveldt
- Division of Human Nutrition and Health, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Edith J. M. Feskens
- Division of Human Nutrition and Health, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Jeanne H. M. de Vries
- Division of Human Nutrition and Health, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
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Zhao S, Han T, Pei X, Song Y, Zhang Y, Liu L, Wang X, Hou W, Sun C. The association of diet carbohydrates consumption with cognitive function among US older adults modification by daily fasting duration. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:991007. [PMID: 36225887 PMCID: PMC9550221 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.991007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Dietary carbohydrate consumption was related to cognitive function. Whereas, there was no study investigate the association of dietary carbohydrate consumption with cognitive function modification by daily fasting duration. This study aims to examine the association between dietary carbohydrate consumption and cognitive function among participants with different daily fasting duration. In this cross-sectional study, 2485 adults aged over 60 years from the nationally representative data of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 2011–2014) were enrolled. Percentage energy from carbohydrates was present in both quartiles and continuous forms. Daily fasting duration = 24 – (timing for dinner – breakfast). Cognitive function was assessed by the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer’s Disease Word List Learning (CERAD-WL), CERAD Word List Delayed Recall (CERAD-DR), Animal Fluency (AF), and Digit Symbol Substitution (DSST) Test. Multiple logistic regression and linear regression models were developed to examine the association of dietary carbohydrates with cognitive function among participants with different daily fasting duration. Restricted cubic spline models were also applied. Compared with the lowest quartile of percentage energy from carbohydrates, the highest quartile had higher ORs of poor cognitive performance among total participants [(ORCERAD-WL 1.84 95% CI 1.25–2.71); (ORCERAD-DR 1.45 95% CI 1.10–1.91)] and participants with daily fasting duration fewer than 16 h [(ORCERAD-WL 2.14 95% CI 1.29–3.55); (ORCERAD-DR 1.51 95% CI 1.05–2.17)] but not in participants with daily fasting duration of more than 16 h. Further, the negative associations between percentage energy from carbohydrates and CERAD-WL score were still significant in addition to participants whose daily fasting duration was more than 16 h. Additionally, dose-response associations were detected between dietary carbohydrates and cognitive decline, while “U” curves were observed among participants whose daily fasting duration was more than 16 h. This study indicated that dietary carbohydrates consumption was associated with poor cognitive performance, but not in participants whose daily fasting duration was more than 16 h among US older adults. The current analysis provides evidence that a longer daily fasting duration may improve the harmful effect of dietary carbohydrates on cognitive function.
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The impact of glycaemic load on cognitive performance: A meta-analysis and guiding principles for future research. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 141:104824. [PMID: 35963545 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The effect of breakfast glycaemic load (GL) on cognition was systematically examined. Randomised and non-randomised controlled trials were identified using PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library (up to May 2022). 15 studies involving adults (aged 20 - 80 years) were included. Studies had a low risk, or some concerns, of bias. A random-effects meta-analysis model revealed no effect of GL on cognition up to 119 min post-consumption. However, after 120 min, immediate episodic memory scores were better following a low-GL compared to a high-GL (SMD = 0.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.00 to 0.32, p = 0.05, I2 = 5%). Subgroup analyses indicated that the benefit was greater in younger adults (<35 years) and those with better GT. A qualitative synthesis of 16 studies involving children and adolescents (aged 5 - 17 years) suggested that a low-GL breakfast may also benefit episodic memory and attention after 120 min. Methodological practises were identified which could explain a failure to detect benefits in some studies. Consequently, guiding principles were developed to optimise future study design.
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Muth AK, Park SQ. The impact of dietary macronutrient intake on cognitive function and the brain. Clin Nutr 2021; 40:3999-4010. [PMID: 34139473 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2021.04.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Macronutrients - carbohydrates, fats, and proteins - supply the nutrients required for optimal functioning. Inadequate intake compromises both physical and brain health. We synthesized research on macronutrients from whole meals on cognitive function in healthy adults and identified underlying mechanisms. Intake of simple carbohydrates ('sugars') is consistently associated with decreased global cognition whereas consumption of complex carbohydrates correlates with successful brain aging and improved memory both in the short- and long-term. Saturated fatty acid intake correlates with decreased memory and learning scores whereas omega-3 intake correlates positively with memory scores. Protein intake boosts executive function and working memory when task-demands are high. Individual differences affecting the macronutrient-cognition relationship are age, physical activity, and glucose metabolism. Neural correlates reflect findings on cognitive functions: cortical thickness and cerebral amyloid burden correlate with sugar intake, inflammatory status and cerebral glucose metabolism correlate with fatty acid intake. Key mechanisms by which dietary macronutrients affect the brain and cognition include glucose and insulin metabolism, neurotransmitter actions, and cerebral oxidation and inflammation. In conclusion, macronutrient intake affects cognitive function both acutely and in the long-term, involving peripheral and central mechanisms. A healthy diet supports brain integrity and functionality, whereas inadequate nutrition compromises it. Studying diet can be key to nutritional recommendations, thereby improving the landscape of mental health and healthy brain aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Katrin Muth
- Department of Decision Neuroscience and Nutrition, German Institute of Human Nutrition (DIfE), Potsdam-Rehbrücke, Germany; Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Neuroscience Research Center, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Soyoung Q Park
- Department of Decision Neuroscience and Nutrition, German Institute of Human Nutrition (DIfE), Potsdam-Rehbrücke, Germany; Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Neuroscience Research Center, 10117, Berlin, Germany; Deutsches Zentrum für Diabetes, Neuherberg, Germany.
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Italian breakfast in mind: The effect of caffeine, carbohydrate and protein on physiological state, mood and cognitive performance. Physiol Behav 2021; 234:113371. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2021.113371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Keye SA, Walk AM, Cannavale CN, Iwinski S, McLoughlin GM, Steinberg LG, Khan NA. Six-Minute Walking Test Performance Relates to Neurocognitive Abilities in Preschoolers. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10040584. [PMID: 33557286 PMCID: PMC7915798 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10040584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the relationship between six-minute walking test (6MWT) distance walked and preschool-aged children’s academic abilities, and behavioral and event-related potentials (ERP) indices of cognitive control. There were 59 children (25 females; age: 5.0 ± 0.6 years) who completed a 6MWT (mean distance: 449.6 ± 82.0 m) to estimate cardiorespiratory fitness. The Woodcock Johnson Early Cognitive and Academic Development Test evaluated academic abilities. A modified Eriksen flanker, hearts and flowers task, and auditory oddball task eliciting ERPs (N2, P3) assessed cognitive control. After adjusting for adiposity, diet, and demographics, linear regressions resulted in positive relationships between 6MWT distance and General Intellectual Ability (β = 0.25, Adj R2 = 0.04, p = 0.04) and Expressive Language (β = 0.30, Adj R2 = 0.13, p = 0.02). 6MWT distance was positively correlated with congruent accuracy (β = 0.29, Adj R2 = 0.18, p < 0.01) and negatively with incongruent reaction time (β = −0.26, Adj R2 = 0.05, p = 0.04) during the flanker task, and positively with homogeneous (β = 0.23, Adj R2 = 0.21, p = 0.04) and heterogeneous (β = 0.26, Adj R2 = 0.40, p = 0.02) accuracy on the hearts and flowers task. Higher fit children showed faster N2 latencies and greater P3 amplitudes to target stimuli; however, these were at the trend level following the adjustment of covariates. These findings indicate that the positive influence of cardiorespiratory fitness on cognitive function is evident in 4–6-year-olds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelby A. Keye
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (S.A.K.); (L.G.S.)
| | - Anne M. Walk
- Department of Psychology, Eastern Illinois University, Charleston, IL 61920, USA;
| | - Corinne N. Cannavale
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA;
| | - Samantha Iwinski
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA;
| | - Gabriella M. McLoughlin
- Implementation Science Center for Cancer Control and Prevention Research Center, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA;
- Department of Surgery (Division of Public Health Sciences), Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Linda G. Steinberg
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (S.A.K.); (L.G.S.)
| | - Naiman A. Khan
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (S.A.K.); (L.G.S.)
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA;
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Correspondence:
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Edwards CG, Walk AM, Thompson SV, Reeser GE, Dilger RN, Erdman JW, Burd NA, Holscher HD, Khan NA. Dietary lutein plus zeaxanthin and choline intake is interactively associated with cognitive flexibility in middle-adulthood in adults with overweight and obesity. Nutr Neurosci 2021; 25:1437-1452. [PMID: 33448903 DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2020.1866867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The xanthophyll carotenoids lutein+zeaxanthin and the dietary component choline have been linked to benefits in cognition. However, knowledge on the interactive influence of these dietary components on cognitive function is sparse. DESIGN 80 middle-aged adults with overweight and obesity (Body Mass Index: (BMI) ≥25.0 kg/m²), completed 7-day diet records, venous blood draws, heterochromatic flicker photometry, assessment of intelligence quotient (IQ), and a cognitive flexibility task while undergoing electroencephalographic recording for event-related potential (ERP) extraction. Multiplicative interaction terms and hierarchical linear regressions, controlling for age, BMI, sex, annual household income, and IQ were utilized to assess independent and interactive contributions of dietary and biomarker data on Switch task outcomes. RESULTS Higher intake of lutein+zeaxanthin and choline was associated interactively, but not independently, with faster reaction time (RT), after controlling for pertinent covariates. Dietary intake of lutein+zeaxanthin and choline was associated with serum lutein concentrations, but not with plasma choline metabolites nor macular pigmentation. Plasma phosphatidylcholine (PC) concentrations were associated with higher accuracy in Switch trials, while no other biomarkers were associated with cognitive outcomes. Dietary intake and biomarker data were not related to the N2 nor P3 ERP component. CONCLUSIONS Among a sample of adults with overweight and obesity, greater intake of choline and lutein+zeaxanthin was associated with faster performance on a cognitive flexibility task. Future work examining methods of increasing consumption of both of these dietary components as a possible means of improving or maintaining cognitive flexibility among adults with overweight and obesity is therefore warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlyn G Edwards
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Anne M Walk
- Department of Psychology, Eastern Illinois University, Charleston, IL, USA
| | - Sharon V Thompson
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Ginger E Reeser
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Ryan N Dilger
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
| | - John W Erdman
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA.,Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Nicholas A Burd
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA.,Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Hannah D Holscher
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA.,Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA.,Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Naiman A Khan
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA.,Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA.,Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
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The Emergence of eSports Nutrition: A Review. CENTRAL EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SPORT SCIENCES AND MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.18276/cej.2021.1-08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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A meta-analytical and experimental examination of blood glucose effects on decision making under risk. JUDGMENT AND DECISION MAKING 2020. [DOI: 10.1017/s1930297500008214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
AbstractPrevious research has shown that short-term changes in blood glucose influence our preferences and may affect decisions about risk as well. However, consensus is lacking about whether and how blood glucose influences decision making under risk, and we conduct two experiments and a meta-analysis to examine this question in detail. In Study 1, using a pecuniary valuation method, we find no effect of blood glucose on willingness to pay for risky products that may act as allergens. In Study 2, using risky gambles, we find that low levels of blood glucose increase risk taking for food and to a lesser degree for non-food rewards. Combining our own and previous findings in a meta-analysis, we show that low levels of blood glucose on average increase risk taking about food. Low blood glucose does not increase risk taking about non-food rewards although this is subject to heterogeneity. Overall, our studies suggest that low blood glucose increases our willingness to gamble on how much food we can get, but not our willingness to eat food that can harm us. Our findings are best explained by the energy budget rule.
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12
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Coro DG, Hutchinson AD, Banks S, Coates AM. Diet and cognitive function in cancer survivors with cancer-related cognitive impairment: A qualitative study. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2020; 29:e13303. [PMID: 32875677 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify cancer survivors' perceptions of the role diet plays in their cognitive function, and how their cancer-related cognitive changes influence their diet. METHODS Cancer survivors diagnosed with cancer in the past 5 years, not on active treatment, and with self-reported cognitive changes since diagnosis were recruited from the general population. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 Australian breast (n = 13) and colorectal (n = 2) survivors (mean time since diagnosed: 27.0 months ± SD=16.8). Questions related to how their diet and cognitive changes influenced each other. Interviews were recorded, and transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Four themes related to how diet impacted cognition: (a) directly (e.g. healthy diet improves cognition), (b) indirectly (e.g. diet affects tiredness which affects cognition); (c) no impact; and (d) potentially (e.g. poorer diet quality would worsen cognition). Three themes emerged for how cognitive changes were thought to impact survivors' diets: (a) planning meals is harder; (b) cooking is more difficult and complex; and, (c) choosing healthy is more challenging. CONCLUSIONS Many cancer survivors perceived a bidirectional influence between diet and cognition that has cognitive and behavioural consequences. Diet could be investigated as a modifiable lifestyle behaviour to improve cancer-related cognitive impairment and fatigue. Survivors may benefit from dietary guidance with meal planning and preparing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel G Coro
- Behaviour-Brain-Body Research Centre, UniSA Justice & Society, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Amanda D Hutchinson
- Behaviour-Brain-Body Research Centre, UniSA Justice & Society, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Siobhan Banks
- Behaviour-Brain-Body Research Centre, UniSA Justice & Society, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Alison M Coates
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), School of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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13
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Debatin T. Neuroenergetics and "General Intelligence": A Systems Biology Perspective. J Intell 2020; 8:jintelligence8030031. [PMID: 32858851 PMCID: PMC7555089 DOI: 10.3390/jintelligence8030031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
David C. Geary proposed the efficiency of mitochondrial processes, especially the production of energy, as the most fundamental biological mechanism contributing to individual differences in general intelligence (g). While the efficiency of mitochondrial functioning is undoubtedly an important and highly interesting factor, I outline several reasons why other main factors of neuroenergetics should not be neglected and why a systems biology perspective should be adopted. There are many advantages for research on intelligence to focus on individual differences in the capability of the overall brain metabolism system to produce the energy currency adenosine triphosphate (ATP): higher predictive strength than single mechanisms, diverse possibilities for experimental manipulation, measurement with existing techniques and answers to unresolved questions because of multiple realizability. Many of these aspects are especially important for research on developmental processes and the building and refining of brain networks for adaptation. Focusing too much on single parts of the system, like the efficiency of mitochondrial functioning, carries the danger of missing important information about the role of neuroenergetics in intelligence and valuable research opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Debatin
- Department of Educational Sciences, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
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14
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Abstract
The effect on cognitive test scores of generating differences in postprandial glycaemia using test foods or beverages has been inconsistent. Methodological issues may account for some of the variable results requiring further investigation using strong study designs into the relationship between glycaemia and cognitive functioning. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of postprandial glycaemia on cognitive function by examining cognition after consumption of foods that differ only by the rate of digestion of available carbohydrate in a population of young adults. In a double-blind, randomised, crossover trial, sixty-five participants received trifle sweetened either with a higher-glycaemic index (GI) sugar (sucrose; GI 65) or a lower-GI sugar (isomaltulose; GI 34). Cognitive tests were completed prior to trifle consumption, and 60 and 120 min after. There was no between-trifle difference at 60 min in performance on free word recall (0·0 (95 % CI -0·6, 0·5)), short delay word recall (0·0 (95 % CI -0·5, 0·5)), long delay word recall (0·0 (95 % CI -0·6, 0·6)), letter-number sequence recall (0·3 (95 % CI - 0·2, 0·7)) and visuo-spatial recall (-0·2 (95 % CI -0·6, 0·2)) tests. At 120 min, no difference was detected in any of these tests. The participants performed 7·7 (95 % CI 0·5,14·9) s faster in Reitan's trail-making test B 60 min after the higher-GI trifle than the lower-GI trifle (P = 0·037). Our findings of a null effect on memory are generally consistent with other works in which blinding and robust control for confounding have been used.
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15
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Peters R, White D, Cleeland C, Scholey A. Fuel for Thought? A Systematic Review of Neuroimaging Studies into Glucose Enhancement of Cognitive Performance. Neuropsychol Rev 2020; 30:234-250. [PMID: 32162177 PMCID: PMC7305087 DOI: 10.1007/s11065-020-09431-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
A transient improvement in cognitive performance can be observed following the ingestion of a glucose drink, a phenomenon known as the ‘glucose facilitation effect’. The effect has been studied thoroughly in the last three decades, but its neural underpinnings remain a matter of speculation. A systematic review was conducted to evaluate the current evidence from studies applying neuroimaging or neurophysiological methods to investigate the glucose enhancement effect. Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria of using neuroimaging in conjunction with cognitive outcomes. Six studies employed electroencephalography (EEG), four used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and one employed functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). All but one study reported modulation of neurophysiology or neuroimaging markers following glucose, while only five studies reported significant changes in cognitive outcomes. The evidence suggests that glucose administration enhances neurocognitive markers of episodic memory and attentional processes underpinned by medial temporal and frontal activation, sometimes in the absence of measurable behavioural effects. Further exploration of glucose facilitation using neuroimaging measures with increased sample sizes is warranted to replicate these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccarda Peters
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, 3122, Australia
| | - David White
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, 3122, Australia
| | - Carlee Cleeland
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, 3122, Australia
| | - Andrew Scholey
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, 3122, Australia.
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16
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A Systematic Review of the Effect of Dietary Supplements on Cognitive Performance in Healthy Young Adults and Military Personnel. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12020545. [PMID: 32093203 PMCID: PMC7071459 DOI: 10.3390/nu12020545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Intake of dietary supplements has increased, despite evidence that some of these have adverse side effects and uncertainty about their effectiveness. This systematic review examined the evidence for the cognitive benefits of a wide range of dietary supplements in healthy young adult samples; the aim was to identify if any might be useful for optimising cognitive performance during deployment in military personnel. Searches were conducted in 9 databases and 13 grey literature repositories for relevant studies published between January 2000 and June 2017. Eligible studies recruited healthy young adults (18-35 years), administered a legal dietary supplement, included a comparison control group, and assessed cognitive outcome(s). Thirty-seven of 394 identified studies met inclusion criteria and were included for synthesis. Most research was deemed of low quality (72.97%; SIGN50 guidelines), highlighting the need for sound empirical research in this area. Nonetheless, we suggest that tyrosine or caffeine could be used in healthy young adults in a military context to enhance cognitive performance when personnel are sleep-deprived. Caffeine also has the potential benefit of improving vigilance and attention during sustained operations offering little opportunity for sleep. Inconsistent findings and methodological limitations preclude firm recommendations about the use of other specific dietary supplements.
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17
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Martin K, Périard J, Rattray B, Pyne DB. Physiological Factors Which Influence Cognitive Performance in Military Personnel. HUMAN FACTORS 2020; 62:93-123. [PMID: 31009241 DOI: 10.1177/0018720819841757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify and detail physiological factors that influence cognition in military personnel. BACKGROUND Maintenance of cognitive and task performance is important under several scenarios, none more so than in a military context. Personnel are prepared for and trained to tolerate many of the stressors they encounter; however, consideration of stressors typically extends only as far as the physical, psychological, and environmental requirements of a given task. While considering these factors certainly characterizes the broader picture, several physiological states and traits can influence cognition and thus, should also be considered. METHOD A systematic review of the electronic databases Medline (PubMed), EMBASE (Scopus), PsycINFO, and Web of Science was conducted from inception up to January 2019. Eligibility criteria included current military personnel, an outcome of cognition, and the assessment of a physiological factor. RESULTS The search returned 60,564 records, of which 60 were included in the review. Eleven studies examined the impact of demographic factors on cognition, 16 examined fatigue, 10 investigated nutrition, and 24 the impact of biological factors on cognitive performance. CONCLUSION Factors identified as having a positive impact on cognition include aerobic fitness, nutritional supplementation, and visual acuity. In contrast, factors identified as having a negative impact include fatigue arising from sustained operations, dehydration, undernutrition, and an exaggerated physiological stress response to a cognitive task or a stressor. A further subset of these factors was considered modifiable. APPLICATION The modifiable factors identified provide avenues for training and preparation to enhance cognition in ways previously unconsidered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristy Martin
- 2234 University of Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Julien Périard
- 2234 University of Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Ben Rattray
- 2234 University of Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - David B Pyne
- 2234 University of Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
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18
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Sarafian D, Charrière N, Maufrais C, Montani JP. Cardiovascular and Orthostatic Responses to a Festive Meal Associated With Alcohol in Young Men. Front Physiol 2019; 10:1183. [PMID: 31632281 PMCID: PMC6780004 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.01183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Sharing a festive meal associated with alcohol is quite common. While the cardiovascular changes occurring after meal ingestion of different nutrient composition has been well-established, the effects of ingesting a festive versus a standard meal accompanied with alcohol are less clear. Here, we compared the postprandial hemodynamics, cutaneous and psychomotor performance responses after ingestion of a classical Swiss festive meal [cheese fondue (CF)] versus a light ready-meal [Nasi Goreng (NG)], both accompanied with white wine. Methods: In a randomized cross over design, we examined in 12 healthy young men, the continuous cardiovascular, cutaneous, and reaction time responses to ingestion of cheese fondue versus a standard meal at rest (sitting position) and hemodynamic changes in response to orthostatic challenge (active standing) in pre- and postprandial phases. Results: Breath alcohol concentration after wine ingestion was similar after both meal types. Compared to the standard meal, consumption of CF induced higher increases in heart rate (HR), cardiac output (CO), double product (DP) and cardiac power output (CPO), greater vasodilation, and rises in skin blood flow and skin temperature. Greater increases in HR, DP, and mean blood pressure (MBP) were observed during orthostatic challenges with CF compared to NG. A two-choice reaction time task revealed similar reaction times with both meals, suggesting no influence of meal composition on psychomotor performance. Conclusion: In sitting position, CF ingestion induced a more important cardiovascular load compared to NG. Although the dose of alcohol and the festive meal used here did not lead to orthostatic hypotension, eating CF induced a greater cardiometabolic load suggesting that hemodynamic reserves have been encroached during active standing. This may impede the cardiovascular capacity during physical exercise or stress situations, particularly in elderly subjects who are at greater risk for postprandial hypotension and cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delphine Sarafian
- Laboratory of Integrative Cardiovascular and Metabolic Physiology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Nathalie Charrière
- Laboratory of Integrative Cardiovascular and Metabolic Physiology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Claire Maufrais
- Laboratory of Integrative Cardiovascular and Metabolic Physiology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Pierre Montani
- Laboratory of Integrative Cardiovascular and Metabolic Physiology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
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ASKARIPOOR T, MOTAMEDZADE M, GOLMOHAMMADI R, FARHADIAN M, BABAMIRI M, SAMAVATI M. Effects of light intervention on alertness and mental performance during the post-lunch dip: a multi-measure study. INDUSTRIAL HEALTH 2019; 57:511-524. [PMID: 30369519 PMCID: PMC6685797 DOI: 10.2486/indhealth.2018-0030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Disrupting sleepiness and fatigue during the post-lunch dip by environmental factors may result in a decrease in human errors and accidents, and enhance job performance. Recent studies have shown that both red white light as well as blue white light can have a positive effect on human alertness and mental functioning. In the present study, the light intervention was evaluated for its effectiveness on alleviating the post-lunch dip. Twenty healthy volunteers experienced 117 min of four light conditions preceded by a 13-min initial dim light while performing a continuous performance test (CPT) and undergoing recording of the electroencephalogram (EEG): blue-enriched white light (12,000 K, 500 lx, BWL), red saturated white light (2,700 K, 500 lx, RWL), normal white light (4,000 K, 500 lx, NWL), and dim light (<5 lx, DL) conditions. Other outcome measures were subjective sleepiness, mood, and performance tests (working memory, divided attention, and inhibitory capacity). We found that exposure to both BWL and RWL conditions decreased the lower alpha-band power compared to the NWL and DL conditions. No significant differences were observed in subjective sleepiness and mental performance during sustained attention, working memory, and inhibitory capacity tasks between NWL, RWL, and BWL conditions. The present findings suggest that both RWL and BWL, compared to NWL condition, can improve the physiological correlates of alertness in EEG measurements. However, these changes did not translate to improvements in task performance and subjective alertness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taleb ASKARIPOOR
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Public Health,
Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Majid MOTAMEDZADE
- Department of Ergonomics, School of Public Health, Hamadan
University of Medical Sciences, Iran
- *To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
| | - Rostam GOLMOHAMMADI
- Center of Excellence for Occupational Health, School of
Public Health and Research Center for Health Sciences, Hamadan University of Medical
Science, Iran
| | - Maryam FARHADIAN
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health and
Research Center for Health Sciences, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Mohammad BABAMIRI
- Department of Ergonomics, School of Public Health, Hamadan
University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Mehdi SAMAVATI
- Department of Medical Physics & Biomedical Engineering
& Research Center for Biomedical Technologies and Robotics (RCBTR), Tehran University
of Medical Sciences, Iran
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20
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Breaking up prolonged sitting with moderate-intensity walking improves attention and executive function in Qatari females. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0219565. [PMID: 31299061 PMCID: PMC6625720 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0219565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cultural, environmental and logistical factors promote a sedentary lifestyle within Qatar, particularly for females. Sedentary behaviour is acutely associated with poor cognitive function and fatigue, and chronically may be implicated with cognitive decline (i.e. Alzheimer’s disease). Purpose To examine the effects of breaking up sitting with short-duration frequent walking bouts on cognitive function and fatigue in Qatari females. Method Eleven sedentary (sitting ≥7 h/day) females completed three visits; the first being familiarisation. In a cross-over randomised manner, experimental visits two and three were identical, except participants either remained seated for 5-h (SIT) or interrupted their sitting every 30-min with a 3-min moderate-intensity walk (WALK) on a motorised treadmill. The Computerised Mental Performance Assessment System (COMPASS) assessed cognition at baseline (-15-min), and then at 2.5-h and 5-h into the experimental conditions. Specific COMPASS tasks employed were; serial-3 subtractions (2-min), serial-7 subtractions (2-min), simple reaction time (RT; 50 stimuli), rapid visual information processing [RVIP (5-min)], choice reaction time (CRT; 50 stimuli), and Stroop (60 stimuli); and a visual analogue scale for fatigue (VAS-F) was completed at the same time intervals. Results There was a significant condition effect for CRT (f = 26.7, p = 0.007). On average CRT was 101 s (95% CI = -47 to -156 s) quicker in WALK compared to SIT. There was a significant time effect for CRT (f = 15.5, p = 0.01). On average CRT was 134 s slower at 5-h compared to baseline (p = 0.006; 95% CI = -64 to -203 s), and 114 s slower at 5-h compared to 2.5-h (p = 0.01; 95% CI = -44 to -183 s). There was a significant interaction effect for RT in the Stroop incongruent task (f = 10.0, p = 0.03). On average RT was 210 s quicker at 2.5-h in WALK compared to SIT (p = 0.01; 95% CI = -76 to -346 s). Conclusion Breaking up prolonged sitting with moderate-intensity walking offers an ecologically valid intervention to enhance some aspects of cognitive function, whilst not affecting fatigue in sedentary Qatari females. Whilst these findings are promising, the long-term effects of breaking up sitting on cognitive function requires testing before population level recommendations can be made.
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21
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Edwards CG, Walk AM, Cannavale CN, Flemming IR, Thompson SV, Reeser GR, Holscher HD, Khan NA. Dietary choline is related to neural efficiency during a selective attention task among middle-aged adults with overweight and obesity. Nutr Neurosci 2019; 24:269-278. [PMID: 31156061 DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2019.1623456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: Obesity is associated with poorer brain health and cognitive function. However, it is not clear whether specific dietary factors may provide neuroprotective effects among individuals with overweight and obesity. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of choline intake on neurophysiological markers of attentional control among young and middle-aged adults with overweight or obesity.Methods: 146 adults with BMI ≥25 kg/m2 (34.0 ± 5.9 years, 57 males) participated in the study. Behavioral performance (accuracy and reaction time) and neuroelectric indices (event-related brain potentials [ERPs]) of attentional inhibition were assessed during a Flanker task. Specifically, the amplitude and latency of the P3 waveform in a central-parietal region of interest (ROI) were used to index attentional resource allocation and information processing speed, respectively. Choline intake and overall diet quality (Healthy Eating Index [HEI-2015]) were assessed using 7-day diet records. Intelligence Quotient was assessed using the Kaufman-Brief Intelligence Test. Regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationship between habitual dietary choline intake and cognitive outcomes following adjustment of demographic factors, IQ, HEI-2015, and BMI.Results: Choline intake was selectively associated with a lower peak amplitude of the P300 waveform during incongruent trials (β = -0.25, p = <0.01). No significant relationships were observed for accuracy or reaction time.Discussion: Higher choline intake is associated with more efficient neural processing among adults with overweight and obesity. Intervention are necessary to determine whether choline consumption provides neuroprotective effects for executive function among individuals with elevated weight status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlyn G Edwards
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Anne M Walk
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | | | - Isabel R Flemming
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Sharon V Thompson
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Ginger R Reeser
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Hannah D Holscher
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA.,Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA.,Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Naiman A Khan
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA.,Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA.,Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
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22
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Debatin T. A Revised Mental Energy Hypothesis of the g Factor in Light of Recent Neuroscience. REVIEW OF GENERAL PSYCHOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/1089268019832846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The article proposes a revised mental energy hypothesis for the emergence of the g factor. Charles E. Spearman interpreted the g factor as a kind of domain-general mental energy. Nowadays, it is known that the energy currency of organisms is the chemical energy transporter adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is produced by complex metabolic processes (mainly by glucose oxidation), and most of it in the human brain is used for neural signaling. There are substantial individual differences in the metabolic properties of the brain, which lead to different levels of energy production. It is thereby proposed to place more emphasis on individual differences of metabolic functions in intelligence research. Neuroscientific findings suggest that increased brain metabolism and, therefore, higher energy-production levels facilitate better performance on different cognitive tasks. These findings are not in conflict with the refined neural efficiency hypothesis. In addition, building on Dennis Garlick’s proposal that neural plasticity is the core process underlying the development of the g factor, it is illustrated why ATP is crucial for neural plasticity. Taken together, the direct effects of level of energy production on cognitive performance and the relations with neural plasticity suggest an important role in the emergence of the g factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Debatin
- Friedrich–Alexander University Erlangen–Nuremberg, Nuremberg, Germany
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23
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Khan NA, Cannavale C, Iwinski S, Liu R, McLoughlin GM, Steinberg LG, Walk AM. Visceral Adiposity and Diet Quality Are Differentially Associated With Cognitive Abilities and Early Academic Skills Among Preschool-Age Children. Front Pediatr 2019; 7:548. [PMID: 32010649 PMCID: PMC6979276 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2019.00548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and diet quality influence cognitive health in preadolescents; however, these relationships remain understudied among preschool-age children. Objectives: Investigate the relationship between VAT, diet quality, academic skills, and cognitive abilities among preschool-age children. Methods: Children between 4 and 5 years (N = 57) were enrolled in a cross-sectional study. Woodcock Johnson Early Cognitive and Academic Development Test (ECAD™) was utilized to assess General Intellectual Ability, Early Academic Skills, and Expressive Language. DXA was used to assess VAT. Diet quality was measured using the Healthy Eating Index-2015 (HEI-2015) based on 7-day food records. Results: Greater VAT was associated with poorer Early Academic Skills (r = -0.28, P = 0.03) whereas a diet pattern that included Fatty Acids, Whole Grains, Saturated Fats, Seafood and Plant Proteins, Total Vegetables, and Dairy was positively associated with General Intellectual Ability (r = 0.26, P = 0.04). Conclusions: Higher VAT is negatively related to Early Academic Skills whereas diet quality was positively and selectively related to intellectual abilities among preschool-age children. These findings indicate that the negative impact of abdominal adiposity on academic skills is evident as early as preschool-age while providing preliminary support for the potentially beneficial role of diet quality on cognitive abilities in early childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naiman A Khan
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois, Champaign, IL, United States.,Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois, Champaign, IL, United States.,Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Champaign, IL, United States
| | - Corinne Cannavale
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois, Champaign, IL, United States
| | - Samantha Iwinski
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Illinois, Champaign, IL, United States
| | - Ruyu Liu
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Champaign, IL, United States
| | | | - Linda G Steinberg
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois, Champaign, IL, United States
| | - Anne M Walk
- Department of Psychology, Eastern Illinois University, Charleston, IL, United States
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Disordered Eating Attitudes and Behavioral and Neuroelectric Indices of Cognitive Flexibility in Individuals with Overweight and Obesity. Nutrients 2018; 10:nu10121902. [PMID: 30518029 PMCID: PMC6316185 DOI: 10.3390/nu10121902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Revised: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Impairment in cognitive flexibility is a trait characteristic among individuals with diagnosed eating disorders. However, the extent to which these relationships exist in individuals with overweight or obesity remains unclear. Furthermore, there is a lack of knowledge characterizing the neural underpinnings of these relationships. The current study aimed to investigate disordered eating attitudes and cognitive flexibility among adults with overweight and obesity. The Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) and a task-switching paradigm were collected from 132 adults (50 males, Body Mass Index (BMI) = 32.0 ± 5.8 kg/m²). Behavioral measures (accuracy and reaction time (RT)) and neuroelectric indices (amplitude and latency) of the P3 component were assessed. Hierarchical linear regressions, following adjustment of age, sex, intelligence quotient (IQ), weight status, and diet quality were developed using summative and subscale scores of the EAT-26. Higher EAT-26 summative scores, and the Dieting subscale, were related to longer RT. Only the Bulimia and Food Preoccupation subscale was related to longer P3 latency. The relationship between disordered eating attitudes and cognitive flexibility extends to individuals with overweight and obesity and is independent of age, sex, IQ, weight status, and diet quality. These findings are important, as differences in cognitive flexibility can lead to behavioral rigidity. Future work should aim to examine other neuroelectric components to identify where differences driving behavioral latencies may be occurring.
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Relationship of a Special Acidified Milk Protein Drink with Cognitive Performance: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study in Healthy Young Adults. Nutrients 2018; 10:nu10050574. [PMID: 29738462 PMCID: PMC5986454 DOI: 10.3390/nu10050574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Revised: 04/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A previous in vivo study with rats suggested that a special milk protein drink manufactured using an acidification procedure to suppress the aggregation of milk proteins was absorbed quickly after feeding. We performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, repeated-measure crossover study to investigate the short-term effects on cognitive performance in 29 healthy young adult men after they consumed this drink in the morning. After an overnight fast, subjects were tested for performance in the Uchida⁻Kraepelin serial arithmetic test and the Stroop test as well as for subjective feeling, body temperature, and heart rate variability before and after consumption of either the acidified milk protein drink or an isoenergetic placebo drink. Subjects showed a significant improvement in performance in the Uchida⁻Kraepelin test, the primary outcome measured, when they consumed the acidified milk protein drink compared with the placebo control condition. In addition, consumption of the acidified milk protein drink, compared with the placebo control, was associated with increases in vagally-mediated heart rate variability indices which, from recent theoretical perspectives, may reflect a higher ability to modulate cognitive and behavioral processes. There was no significant difference in subjective feelings and body temperature between the test drink conditions. These data suggest that consumption of the acidified milk protein drink may improve cognitive performance, with possible involvement of physiological systems that regulate cognition and behavior.
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Macular Xanthophylls Are Related to Intellectual Ability among Adults with Overweight and Obesity. Nutrients 2018; 10:nu10040396. [PMID: 29570611 PMCID: PMC5946181 DOI: 10.3390/nu10040396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Revised: 03/07/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Excess adiposity or obesity has been inversely related to cognitive function and macular xanthophyll status. However, whether the neuroprotective effects of macular xanthophylls on cognitive function are independent of excess adiposity is unclear. We investigated the relationship between macular xanthophylls and intellectual ability among adults (N = 114) between 25 and 45 years with overweight and obesity (≥25 kg/m²). Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry and heterochromatic flicker photometry were used to assess whole body adiposity (%Fat) and macular pigment optical density (MPOD), respectively. Dietary xanthophylls (lutein and zeaxanthin) were assessed using 7-day diet records. The Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test-2 (KBIT-2) was used to assess general intelligence (IQ) as well as fluid and crystallized intelligence. Bivariate correlations revealed that MPOD was inversely related to %Fat and positively associated with IQ and fluid intelligence. Although %Fat was inversely correlated to IQ and fluid intelligence, this relationship did not persist following adjustment for sex and MPOD. Further, MPOD was an independent predictor of IQ and fluid intelligence. However, no significant relationships were observed between MPOD and crystalized intelligence. These results suggest that macular xanthophylls are selectively related to fluid intelligence, regardless of degree of adiposity among adults with overweight and obesity.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical inactivity and excess adiposity are thought to be detrimental to physical and cognitive health. However, implications of these interrelated health factors are rarely examined together; consequently, little is known regarding the concomitant contribution of physical activity and adiposity to cognition. METHODS Bivariate correlations and hierarchical linear regressions were conducted among a sample of adults between 25 and 45 years (N = 65). Attentional inhibition was assessed using an Eriksen Flanker task. Whole-body percent body fat (%Fat) was assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Daily percent time spent in moderate to vigorous physical activity (%MVPA) was monitored using an accelerometer (7 d). RESULTS After adjusting for significant covariates, %MVPA was a positive predictor of accuracy in the incongruent task (β = 0.31, P = .03). Individuals who engaged in greater %MVPA exhibited superior attentional inhibition. Additionally, there was an interaction effect of %Fat and %MVPA on attentional inhibition (β = 0.45, P = .04). CONCLUSION The positive influence of MVPA on cognitive control persists following the adjustment of significant covariates and adiposity. Additionally, interactive effects between %Fat and %MVPA suggest that individuals with lower activity and greater adiposity exhibited poorer attentional inhibition. These findings have relevance for public health given the elevated rates of physical inactivity and obesity.
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Bernard BN, Louise LC, Louise D. The Effects of Carbohydrates, in Isolation and Combined with Caffeine, on Cognitive Performance and Mood-Current Evidence and Future Directions. Nutrients 2018; 10:E192. [PMID: 29425182 PMCID: PMC5852768 DOI: 10.3390/nu10020192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2018] [Revised: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
This review examines the effects of carbohydrates, delivered individually and in combination with caffeine, on a range of cognitive domains and subjective mood. There is evidence for beneficial effects of glucose at a dose of 25 g on episodic memory, but exploration of dose effects has not been systematic and the effects on other cognitive domains is not known. Factors contributing to the differential sensitivity to glucose facilitation include age, task difficulty/demand, task domain, and glucoregulatory control. There is modest evidence to suggest modulating glycemic response may impact cognitive function. The evidence presented in this review identifies dose ranges of glucose and caffeine which improve cognition, but fails to find convincing consistent synergistic effects of combining caffeine and glucose. Whilst combining glucose and caffeine has been shown to facilitate cognitive performance and mood compared to placebo or glucose alone, the relative contribution of caffeine and glucose to the observed effects is difficult to ascertain, due to the paucity of studies that have appropriately compared the effects of these ingredients combined and in isolation. This review identifies a number of methodological challenges which need to be considered in the design of future hypothesis driven research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boyle Neil Bernard
- Leeds Nutrition and Behaviour Group, School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK.
| | - Lawton Clare Louise
- Leeds Nutrition and Behaviour Group, School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK.
| | - Dye Louise
- Leeds Nutrition and Behaviour Group, School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK.
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Tryptophan supplementation and serotonin function: genetic variations in behavioural effects. Proc Nutr Soc 2018; 77:174-188. [DOI: 10.1017/s0029665117004451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The neurotransmitter serotonin has a role in affective disorders such as depression and anxiety, as well as sleep, cognitive function and appetite. This review examines the evidence that serotonin-related genotypes may moderate the behavioural effects of supplementation with the serotonin precursor amino acidl-tryptophan (TRP), on which synthesis of serotonin (or 5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT) depends. However, 95 % of serotonin is synthesised and used in the periphery, and TRP is also metabolised via non-5-HT routes such as the kynurenine pathway. Moreover, understanding of genotypes involved in regulation of serotonin raises questions over the generalisability of TRP effects on behaviour across individuals with varied serotonergic genotypes. To date, only differences between variants of the 5-HT transporter-linked promoter region (5-HTTLPR) have been investigated in relation to behavioural effects of TRP supplementation. Effects of 5-HTTLPR genotypes are usually compared between the alleles that are either high (L/L′) or low (S/S′) expressing of mRNA for the 5-HT transporter receptor. Yet, another key genetic variable is sex: in women, the S/S′ genotype predicts sensitivity to improved mood and reduced cortisol by TRP supplementation, during stressful challenges, whereas the L/L′ genotype protects against stress-induced mood deterioration. In men, the L/L′ genotype may confer risk of stress-induced increases in negative affect; there are insufficient data to assess effects on male S/S′ genotypes. However, better-powered studies to detect sex by genotype by stress by TRP interactions, as well as consideration of more genotypes, are needed before strong conclusions and recommendations for behavioural effects of TRP treatment can be reached.
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Walk AM, Raine LB, Kramer AF, Cohen NJ, Khan NA, Hillman CH. Differential Effects of Carbohydrates on Behavioral and Neuroelectric Indices of Selective Attention in Preadolescent Children. Front Hum Neurosci 2017; 11:614. [PMID: 29326572 PMCID: PMC5742340 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2017.00614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The importance of breakfast consumption for ideal cognitive performance has received much attention in recent years, although research on the topic has yielded mixed results. The present study utilized event-related brain potentials (ERPs) elicited during a modified flanker task to investigate the neuroelectric implications of receiving different mixed macronutrient beverages after an overnight fast. A repeated measures design was employed whereby preadolescent participants (9–10 years of age) completed cognitive testing while ERPs were collected during two non-consecutive testing sessions, one in which they received one of three treatment beverages consisting of mixed-macronutrient formulations (either Carbohydrate Blend, Sucrose, Maltodextrin) and the other in which they received a placebo drink containing Sucralose. Performance indices, ERPs, and blood glucose were recorded at three time points before the testing session and after the ingestion of each drink. While the behavioral performance indices and N2 results showed some evidence of glucose facilitation, the effects were small and selective. Participants who received the Maltodextrin treatment showed faster reaction times and more stable N2 amplitudes after ingesting the treatment beverage. The most robust effects were seen in the P3 amplitude measurement. Across the three drink groups, participants showed a marked amplitude increase over time after the placebo drink was ingested, although P3 amplitudes remained stable when a carbohydrate treatment drink was ingested. These effects were eliminated when changes in blood glucose were accounted for, suggesting that the neurolectric effects were directly related to glycemic change. These findings suggest that ingestion of carbohydrates after an overnight fast results in changes to the P3 amplitude of the ERP waveform elicited during an attentional inhibition task.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Walk
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, United States
| | - Lauren B Raine
- Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Arthur F Kramer
- Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States.,Beckman Institute, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, United States
| | - Neal J Cohen
- Beckman Institute, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, United States.,Department of Psychology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, United States.,Center for Learning, Nutrition, & Memory, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, United States
| | - Naiman A Khan
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, United States.,Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, United States
| | - Charles H Hillman
- Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Health Science, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
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Abstract
The relationship between obesity and cognitive impairment is important given the globally ageing population in whom cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disorders will carry grave individual, societal and financial burdens. This review examines the evidence for the link between obesity and cognitive function in terms of both the immediate effects on cognitive performance, and effects on the trajectory of cognitive ageing and likelihood of dementia. In mid-life, there is a strong association between obesity and impaired cognitive function. Anthropometric measures of obesity are also associated with reduced neural integrity (e.g. grey and white matter atrophy). Increasing age coupled with the negative metabolic consequences of obesity (e.g. type 2 diabetes mellitus) are likely to significantly contribute to cognitive decline and incidence of dementia. Stress is identified as a potential risk factor promoting abdominal obesity and contributing to impaired cognitive function. However, the potentially protective effects of obesity against cognitive decline in older age require further examination. Finally, surgical and whole diet interventions, which address obesity may improve cognitive capacity and confer some protection against later cognitive decline. In conclusion, obesity and its comorbidities are associated with impaired cognitive performance, accelerated cognitive decline and neurodegenerative pathologies such as dementia in later life. Interventions targeting mid-life obesity may prove beneficial in reducing the cognitive risks associated with obesity.
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The effectiveness of healthy meals at work on reaction time, mood and dietary intake: a randomised cross-over study in daytime and shift workers at an university hospital. Br J Nutr 2017; 118:121-129. [PMID: 28820084 DOI: 10.1017/s000711451700191x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Our dietary habits affect both cognitive performance and mood. The aim of the study was to examine the effect of increased availability of healthy meals and water at work on healthcare staff. The study used an 8-week randomised cross-over design. A total of sixty physicians, nurses and nursing assistants, including sixteen working on shifts, were recruited. The participants received a self-selected keyhole-labelled (Nordic nutrition label) lunch, snack and bottled water during each shift throughout the intervention period. Reaction time (Go/No-Go test), mood-related scores (POMS) and dietary intake were assessed at run-in, and at the end of the intervention and the control periods. The intake of fat (P=0·030) and PUFA (P=0·003) was lower, and the intake of carbohydrate (P=0·008), dietary fibre (P=0·031) and water (P<0·001) was greater in the intervention period than in the control period. The intervention had no effect on reaction time or any of the mood-related scores in the group as a whole. In shift-working participants, the intervention period resulted in a 31·1 % lower Fatigue-Inertia Score (P=0·003), a 15·3 % higher Vigour-Activity Score (P=0·041) and a 42·7 % lower Total Mood Disturbance Score (P=0·017), whereas the only dietary component that significantly improved was water intake (P=0·034), when compared with the control period. Providing healthy meals, snacks and water during working hours seems to be an effective way of improving employees' dietary intake. Moreover, increased intake of water may be associated with beneficial effects on fatigue, vigour and total mood in shift-working healthcare staff.
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Wilson TJ, Gray MJ, Van Klinken JW, Kaczmarczyk M, Foxe JJ. Macronutrient composition of a morning meal and the maintenance of attention throughout the morning. Nutr Neurosci 2017; 21:729-743. [PMID: 28714768 PMCID: PMC5924415 DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2017.1347998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND At present, the impact of macronutrient composition and nutrient intake on sustained attention in adults is unclear, although some prior work suggests that nutritive interventions that engender slow, steady glucose availability support sustained attention after consumption. A separate line of evidence suggests that nutrient consumption may alter electroencephalographic markers of neurophysiological activity, including neural oscillations in the alpha-band (8-14 Hz), which are known to be richly interconnected with the allocation of attention. It is here investigated whether morning ingestion of foodstuffs with differing macronutrient compositions might differentially impact the allocation of sustained attention throughout the day as indexed by both behavior and the deployment of attention-related alpha-band activity. METHODS Twenty-four adult participants were recruited into a three-day study with a cross-over design that employed a previously validated sustained attention task (the Spatial CTET). On each experimental day, subjects consumed one of three breakfasts with differing carbohydrate availabilities (oatmeal, cornflakes, and water) and completed blocks of the Spatial CTET throughout the morning while behavioral performance, subjective metrics of hunger/fullness, and electroencephalographic (EEG) measurements of alpha oscillatory activity were recorded. RESULTS Although behavior and electrophysiological metrics changed over the course of the day, no differences in their trajectories were observed as a function of breakfast condition. However, subjective metrics of hunger/fullness revealed that caloric interventions (oatmeal and cornflakes) reduced hunger across the experimental day with respect to the non-caloric, volume-matched control (water). Yet, no differences in hunger/fullness were observed between the oatmeal and cornflakes interventions. CONCLUSION Observation of a relationship between macronutrient intervention and sustained attention (if one exists) will require further standardization of empirical investigations to aid in the synthesis and replicability of results. In addition, continued implementation of neurophysiological markers in this domain is encouraged, as they often produce nuanced insight into cognition even in the absence of overt behavioral changes. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03169283.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommy J Wilson
- a The Sheryl and Daniel R. Tishman Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Children's Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center (CERC), Department of Pediatrics , Albert Einstein College of Medicine & Montefiore Medical Center , Bronx , NY 10461 , USA.,b The Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience , Rose F. Kennedy Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Rose F. Kennedy Center , Bronx , NY 10461 , USA
| | - Michael J Gray
- d The Graduate Center of the City University of New York , New York , NY 10031
| | | | | | - John J Foxe
- a The Sheryl and Daniel R. Tishman Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Children's Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center (CERC), Department of Pediatrics , Albert Einstein College of Medicine & Montefiore Medical Center , Bronx , NY 10461 , USA.,c Department of Neuroscience , The Ernest J. Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry , Rochester , NY 14642 , USA
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The impact of diet-based glycaemic response and glucose regulation on cognition: evidence across the lifespan. Proc Nutr Soc 2017; 76:466-477. [DOI: 10.1017/s0029665117000829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The brain has a high metabolic rate and its metabolism is almost entirely restricted to oxidative utilisation of glucose. These factors emphasise the extreme dependence of neural tissue on a stable and adequate supply of glucose. Whereas initially it was thought that only glucose deprivation (i.e. under hypoglycaemic conditions) can affect brain function, it has become apparent that low-level fluctuations in central availability can affect neural and consequently, cognitive performance. In the present paper the impact of diet-based glycaemic response and glucose regulation on cognitive processes across the lifespan will be reviewed. The data suggest that although an acute rise in blood glucose levels has some short-term improvements of cognitive function, a more stable blood glucose profile, which avoids greater peaks and troughs in circulating glucose is associated with better cognitive function and a lower risk of cognitive impairments in the longer term. Therefore, a habitual diet that secures optimal glucose delivery to the brain in the fed and fasting states should be most advantageous for the maintenance of cognitive function. Although the evidence to date is promising, it is insufficient to allow firm and evidence-based nutritional recommendations. The rise in obesity, diabetes and metabolic syndrome in recent years highlights the need for targeted dietary and lifestyle strategies to promote healthy lifestyle and brain function across the lifespan and for future generations. Consequently, there is an urgent need for hypothesis-driven, randomised controlled trials that evaluate the role of different glycaemic manipulations on cognition.
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35
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Crawford C, Teo L, Elfenbaum P, Enslein V, Deuster PA, Berry K. Methodological approach to moving nutritional science evidence into practice. Nutr Rev 2017; 75:6-16. [PMID: 28969344 DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nux017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Metabolically Optimized Brain study explored nutritional science believed to be ready to place into practice to help improve US service members' cognitive performance and, thereby, optimize mission-readiness. A transparent, step-wise, research approach was used for informing evidence-based decisions among and for various, diverse stakeholders. A steering committee and subject-matter experts convened to devise the protocol and independent systematic reviews were performed to determine the quality of the evidence for nutritional science in 4 areas relevant to military populations: (1) caffeinated foods and beverages; (2) omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids; (3) plant-based foods and beverages or their phytochemical constituents; and (4) whole dietary patterns. A research expert panel was asked to then recommend future research directions and solutions likely to benefit warfighters. An implementation expert panel further considered how to apply sound nutritional science in a cost-effective manner. This article summarizes the methodological processes, high-level results, global research recommendations, and priorities for implementation. Specific results of the individual dietary interventions, as well as recommendations for moving this field of research and practice forward, are detailed throughout the current supplement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Crawford
- Samueli Institute, Alexandria, Virginia, USA.,Thought Leadership & Innovation Foundation, McLean, Virginia, USA
| | - Lynn Teo
- Samueli Institute, Alexandria, Virginia, USA.,Thought Leadership & Innovation Foundation, McLean, Virginia, USA
| | - Pamela Elfenbaum
- Department of Military and Emergency Medicine, Consortium for Health and Military Performance, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Viviane Enslein
- Department of Military and Emergency Medicine, Consortium for Health and Military Performance, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Kevin Berry
- Samueli Institute, Alexandria, Virginia, USA.,Thought Leadership & Innovation Foundation, McLean, Virginia, USA
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Attuquayefio T, Stevenson RJ, Oaten MJ, Francis HM. A four-day Western-style dietary intervention causes reductions in hippocampal-dependent learning and memory and interoceptive sensitivity. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0172645. [PMID: 28231304 PMCID: PMC5322971 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0172645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In animals, a Western style diet-high in saturated fat and added sugar-causes impairments in hippocampal-dependent learning and memory (HDLM) and perception of internal bodily state (interoception). In humans, while there is correlational support for a link between Western-style diet, HDLM, and interoception, there is as yet no causal data. Here, healthy individuals were randomly assigned to consume either a breakfast high in saturated fat and added sugar (Experimental condition) or a healthier breakfast (Control condition), over four consecutive days. Tests of HDLM, interoception and biological measures were administered before and after breakfast on the days one and four, and participants completed food diaries before and during the study. At the end of the study, the Experimental condition showed significant reductions in HDLM and reduced interoceptive sensitivity to hunger and fullness, relative to the Control condition. The Experimental condition also showed a markedly different blood glucose and triglyceride responses to their breakfast, relative to Controls, with larger changes in blood glucose across breakfast being associated with greater reductions in HDLM. The Experimental condition compensated for their energy-dense breakfast by reducing carbohydrate intake, while saturated fat intake remained consistently higher than Controls. This is the first experimental study in humans to demonstrate that a Western-style diet impacts HDLM following a relatively short exposure-just as in animals. The link between diet-induced HDLM changes and blood glucose suggests one pathway by which diet impacts HDLM in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuki Attuquayefio
- Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Richard J. Stevenson
- Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Megan J. Oaten
- School of Applied Psychology, Gold Coast, Griffiths University, Queensland, Australia
| | - Heather M. Francis
- Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Effects of almond consumption on the post-lunch dip and long-term cognitive function in energy-restricted overweight and obese adults. Br J Nutr 2017; 117:395-402. [PMID: 28183366 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114516004463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The post-lunch dip in cognition is a well-established phenomenon of decreased alertness, memory and vigilance after lunch consumption. Lunch composition reportedly influences the post-lunch dip. Moreover, dieting is associated with cognitive function impairments. The negative effects of dieting have been reversed with nut-supplemented diets. The aims of this study were to (1) evaluate the acute effect of an almond-enriched high-fat lunch or high-carbohydrate lunch on the post-lunch decline in cognitive function, and (2) evaluate the effects of chronic almond consumption as part of an energy-restricted diet on the memory and attention domains of cognitive function. In total, eighty-six overweight and obese adults were randomised to consume either an almond-enriched diet (AED) or a nut-free control diet (NFD) over a 12-week weight loss intervention. Participants were also randomised to receive either an almond-enriched high-fat lunch (A-HFL) (>55 % energy from fat, almonds contributing 70-75 % energy) or a high-carbohydrate lunch (HCL) (>85 % energy from carbohydrates) at the beginning and end of the weight loss intervention. Memory and attention performance indices decreased after lunch consumption (P<0·001). The A-HFL group ameliorated the decline in memory scores by 57·7 % compared with the HCL group (P=0·004). Both lunch groups had similar declines in attention. Moreover, memory and attention performance indices increased after the 12-week intervention period (P<0·05) with no difference between the AED and NFD groups. In conclusion, almond consumption at a midday meal can reduce the post-lunch dip in memory. However, long-term almond consumption may not further improve cognitive function outcomes in a weight loss intervention.
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Adolphus K, Bellissimo N, Lawton CL, Ford NA, Rains TM, Totosy de Zepetnek J, Dye L. Methodological Challenges in Studies Examining the Effects of Breakfast on Cognitive Performance and Appetite in Children and Adolescents. Adv Nutr 2017; 8:184S-196S. [PMID: 28096143 PMCID: PMC5227972 DOI: 10.3945/an.116.012831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Breakfast is purported to confer a number of benefits on diet quality, health, appetite regulation, and cognitive performance. However, new evidence has challenged the long-held belief that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. This review aims to provide a comprehensive discussion of the key methodological challenges and considerations in studies assessing the effect of breakfast on cognitive performance and appetite control, along with recommendations for future research. This review focuses on the myriad challenges involved in studying children and adolescents specifically. Key methodological challenges and considerations include study design and location, sampling and sample section, choice of objective cognitive tests, choice of objective and subjective appetite measures, merits of providing a fixed breakfast compared with ad libitum, assessment and definition of habitual breakfast consumption, transparency of treatment condition, difficulty of isolating the direct effects of breakfast consumption, untangling acute and chronic effects, and influence of confounding variables. These methodological challenges have hampered a clear substantiation of the potential positive effects of breakfast on cognition and appetite control and contributed to the debate questioning the notion that breakfast is the most important meal of the day.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Adolphus
- Human Appetite Research Unit, School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Nick Bellissimo
- Faculty of Community Services, School of Nutrition, Ryerson University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Clare L Lawton
- Human Appetite Research Unit, School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Louise Dye
- Human Appetite Research Unit, School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom;
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Tay J, Zajac IT, Thompson CH, Luscombe-Marsh ND, Danthiir V, Noakes M, Buckley JD, Wittert GA, Brinkworth GD. A randomised-controlled trial of the effects of very low-carbohydrate and high-carbohydrate diets on cognitive performance in patients with type 2 diabetes. Br J Nutr 2016; 116:1-9. [PMID: 27876096 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114516004001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
This study compared the longer-term effects of a very low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet with a high-carbohydrate, low-fat diet on cognitive performance in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D). In total, 115 obese adults with T2D (sixty-six males, BMI: 34·6 (sd 4·3) kg/m2, age: 58 (sd 7) years, HbA1c: 7·3 (sd 1·1) %, diabetes duration: 8 (sd 6) years) were randomised to consume either an energy-restricted, very low-carbohydrate, low-saturated-fat (LC) diet or an energy-matched high unrefined carbohydrate, low-fat (HC) diet with supervised aerobic/resistance exercise (60 min, 3 d/week) for 52 weeks. Body weight, HbA1c and cognitive performance assessing perceptual speed, reasoning speed, reasoning ability, working memory, verbal fluency, processing speed, short-term memory, inhibition and memory scanning speed were assessed before and after intervention. No differences in the changes in cognitive test performance scores between the diet groups were observed for any of the cognitive function outcomes assessed (P≥0·24 time×diet). Percentage reduction in body weight correlated with improvements with perceptual speed performance. In obese adults with T2D, both LC and HC weight-loss diets combined with exercise training had similar effects on cognitive performance. This suggests that an LC diet integrated within a lifestyle modification programme can be used as a strategy for weight and diabetes management without the concern of negatively affecting cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeannie Tay
- 1Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) - Health and Biosecurity,Adelaide,SA 5000,Australia
| | - Ian T Zajac
- 1Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) - Health and Biosecurity,Adelaide,SA 5000,Australia
| | | | - Natalie D Luscombe-Marsh
- 1Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) - Health and Biosecurity,Adelaide,SA 5000,Australia
| | - Vanessa Danthiir
- 1Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) - Health and Biosecurity,Adelaide,SA 5000,Australia
| | - Manny Noakes
- 1Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) - Health and Biosecurity,Adelaide,SA 5000,Australia
| | - Jonathan D Buckley
- 4Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA),Sansom Institute for Health Research,University of South Australia,Adelaide,SA 5001,Australia
| | - Gary A Wittert
- 2Discipline of Medicine,University of Adelaide,Adelaide, SA 5000,Australia
| | - Grant D Brinkworth
- 1Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) - Health and Biosecurity,Adelaide,SA 5000,Australia
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40
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Iovino I, Stuff J, Liu Y, Brewton C, Dovi A, Kleinman R, Nicklas T. Breakfast consumption has no effect on neuropsychological functioning in children: a repeated-measures clinical trial. Am J Clin Nutr 2016; 104:715-21. [PMID: 27465375 DOI: 10.3945/ajcn.116.132043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although many studies have investigated the relation between breakfast consumption and various domains of cognitive functioning within children, some of the reported findings are inconsistent. OBJECTIVE We sought to determine the short-term effects of a breakfast meal on the neuropsychological functioning of healthy school-aged children after an overnight fast. DESIGN The study was conducted in a clinical research center with the use of a counterbalanced repeated-measures design among children who either consumed breakfast or were fasting. The administered neuropsychological tests included measures of attention, impulsivity, short-term memory, cognitive processing speed, and verbal learning. The sample consisted of children aged 8-10 y (n = 128), of whom 52% were female, 38% were African American, 31% were Hispanic, 28% were white, and 3% were of another race/ethnicity. RESULTS There were no significant (P ≥ 0.004) differences between breakfast meal consumption and fasting for any of the neuropsychological measures administered. CONCLUSION Breakfast consumption had no short-term effect on neuropsychological functioning in healthy school-aged children. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01943604.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Iovino
- Department of Pediatrics, Psychology Section, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX
| | - Janice Stuff
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Christie Brewton
- Department of Psychological, Health, and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, Houston, TX; and
| | - Allison Dovi
- Department of Psychological, Health, and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, Houston, TX; and
| | | | - Theresa Nicklas
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX;
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41
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The effect of a breakfast containing multiple functional ingredients on glucose response, insulin response and cognitive performance in adolescents. Proc Nutr Soc 2016. [DOI: 10.1017/s0029665116002196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Attuquayefio T, Stevenson RJ. A systematic review of longer-term dietary interventions on human cognitive function: Emerging patterns and future directions. Appetite 2015; 95:554-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2015.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Revised: 08/17/2015] [Accepted: 08/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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43
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Effects of blood glucose levels on resting-state EEG and attention in healthy volunteers. J Clin Neurophysiol 2015; 32:51-6. [PMID: 25647771 DOI: 10.1097/wnp.0000000000000119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Although glucose is the primary source of energy for the human brain, only a few studies have quantitatively evaluated the effects of glucose supply in healthy fasting subjects. Thus, this study used an EEG power spectral analysis to investigate whether alterations in EEG are associated with changes in blood glucose levels in healthy fasting subjects. METHODS This study included 24 healthy volunteers who underwent resting-state EEG and completed two attention examinations following a fasting period of at least 8 hours. The same tests were repeated after the participants ingested a glucose-rich drink. RESULTS After consumption of the glucose-rich drink, significant increases in low alpha (8-10 Hz) and theta (4-8 Hz) power were observed in the whole brain and were especially prominent in the frontal and parieto-occipital regions. The participants performed better on the attention tests after than before the intake of glucose, but regional EEG changes were not correlated with this attentional enhancement. CONCLUSIONS The present study demonstrated that recovery from low levels of blood glucose following a prolonged fasting period was associated with increased power in the theta and low alpha bands on a resting-state EEG and that this recovery was accompanied by improved attentional performance.
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Veasey RC, Haskell-Ramsay CF, Kennedy DO, Tiplady B, Stevenson EJ. The Effect of Breakfast Prior to Morning Exercise on Cognitive Performance, Mood and Appetite Later in the Day in Habitually Active Women. Nutrients 2015; 7:5712-32. [PMID: 26184302 PMCID: PMC4517027 DOI: 10.3390/nu7075250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2015] [Revised: 07/03/2015] [Accepted: 07/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pre-exercise nutritional practices for active females exercising for mood, cognitive and appetite benefits are not well established. Results from an initial field pilot study showed that higher energy intake at breakfast was associated with lower fatigue and higher overall mood and alertness post-exercise (all p < 0.05). In a follow-up, randomised, controlled trial, 24 active women completed three trials in a balanced, cross-over design. At 0815 h participants completed baseline cognitive tasks, mood and appetite visual analogue scales (VAS) and were administered a cereal breakfast (providing 118 or 236 kcal) or no breakfast. After 45 min, they completed a 30 min run at 65% heart rate reserve (HRR). Parameters were re-assessed immediately after exercise, then hourly until lunch (~1240 h), immediately post-lunch and at 1500 and 1900 h via a mobile phone. Breakfast enhanced feelings of relaxation before lunch (p < 0.05, d > 0.40), though breakfast was detrimental for working memory mid-afternoon (p = 0.019, d = 0.37) and mental fatigue and tension later in the day (all p < 0.05, d > 0.038). Breakfast was also beneficial for appetite control before lunch irrespective of size (all p < 0.05, d > 0.43). These data provide information on pre-exercise nutritional practices for active females and suggest that a small breakfast eaten prior to exercise can benefit post-exercise mood and subjective appetite ratings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel C Veasey
- Brain, Performance and Nutrition Research Centre, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE18ST, UK.
| | - Crystal F Haskell-Ramsay
- Brain, Performance and Nutrition Research Centre, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE18ST, UK.
| | - David O Kennedy
- Brain, Performance and Nutrition Research Centre, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE18ST, UK.
| | - Brian Tiplady
- Brain, Performance and Nutrition Research Centre, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE18ST, UK.
| | - Emma J Stevenson
- Brain, Performance and Nutrition Research Centre, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE18ST, UK.
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45
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Khan NA, Raine LB, Drollette ES, Scudder MR, Hillman CH. The relation of saturated fats and dietary cholesterol to childhood cognitive flexibility. Appetite 2015; 93:51-6. [PMID: 25865659 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2015.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2015] [Revised: 04/03/2015] [Accepted: 04/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Identification of health behaviors and markers of physiological health associated with childhood cognitive function has important implications for public health policy targeted toward cognitive health throughout the life span. Although previous studies have shown that aerobic fitness and obesity exert contrasting effects on cognitive flexibility among prepubertal children, the extent to which diet plays a role in cognitive flexibility has received little attention. Accordingly, this study examined associations between saturated fats and cholesterol intake and cognitive flexibility, assessed using a task switching paradigm, among prepubertal children between 7 and 10 years (N = 150). Following adjustment of confounding variables (age, sex, socioeconomic status, IQ, VO2max, and BMI), children consuming diets higher in saturated fats exhibited longer reaction time during the task condition requiring greater amounts of cognitive flexibility. Further, increasing saturated fat intake and dietary cholesterol were correlated with greater switch costs, reflecting impaired ability to maintain multiple task sets in working memory and poorer efficiency of cognitive control processes involved in task switching. These data are among the first to indicate that children consuming diets higher in saturated fats and cholesterol exhibit compromised ability to flexibly modulate their cognitive operations, particularly when faced with greater cognitive challenge. Future longitudinal and intervention studies are necessary to comprehensively characterize the interrelationships between diet, aerobic fitness, obesity, and children's cognitive abilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naiman A Khan
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL.
| | - Lauren B Raine
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL
| | - Eric S Drollette
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL
| | - Mark R Scudder
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL
| | - Charles H Hillman
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL
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46
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Khan NA, Raine LB, Drollette ES, Scudder MR, Kramer AF, Hillman CH. Dietary fiber is positively associated with cognitive control among prepubertal children. J Nutr 2015; 145:143-9. [PMID: 25527669 PMCID: PMC4264019 DOI: 10.3945/jn.114.198457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Converging evidence now indicates that aerobic fitness and adiposity are key correlates of childhood cognitive function and brain health. However, the evidence relating dietary intake to executive function/cognitive control remains limited. OBJECTIVE The current study assessed cross-sectional associations between performance on an attentional inhibition task and dietary fatty acids (FAs), fiber, and overall diet quality among children aged 7-9 y (n = 65). METHODS Attentional inhibition was assessed by using a modified flanker task. Three-day food records were used to conduct nutrient-level analyses and to calculate diet quality (Healthy Eating Index-2005) scores. RESULTS Bivariate correlations revealed that socioeconomic status and sex were not related to task performance or diet measures. However, age, intelligence quotient (IQ), pubertal staging, maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max), and percentage of fat mass (%fat mass) correlated with task accuracy. Hierarchical regression models were used to determine the relation between diet variables and task accuracy and reaction time across both congruent and incongruent trials of the flanker task. After adjustment of confounding variables (age, IQ, pubertal staging, V̇O2max, and %fat mass), congruent accuracy was positively associated with insoluble fiber (β = 0.26, P = 0.03) and total dietary fiber (β = 0.23, P = 0.05). Incongruent response accuracy was positively associated with insoluble fiber (β = 0.35, P < 0.01), pectins (β = 0.25, P = 0.04), and total dietary fiber (β = 0.32, P < 0.01). Higher diet quality was related to lower accuracy interference (β = -0.26, P = 0.03), whereas higher total FA intake was related to greater accuracy interference (β = 0.24, P = 0.04). No statistically significant associations were observed between diet variables and reaction time measures. CONCLUSION These results demonstrate that children's diet quality, specifically dietary fiber, is an important correlate of performance on a cognitive task requiring variable amounts of cognitive control.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Arthur F Kramer
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL
| | - Charles H Hillman
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health and,Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL
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Smith I, Williamson EM, Putnam S, Farrimond J, Whalley BJ. Effects and mechanisms of ginseng and ginsenosides on cognition. Nutr Rev 2014; 72:319-33. [DOI: 10.1111/nure.12099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Imogen Smith
- School of Chemistry; Food and Nutritional Sciences and Pharmacy; University of Reading; Reading Berkshire UK
| | - Elizabeth M Williamson
- School of Chemistry; Food and Nutritional Sciences and Pharmacy; University of Reading; Reading Berkshire UK
| | | | | | - Benjamin J Whalley
- School of Chemistry; Food and Nutritional Sciences and Pharmacy; University of Reading; Reading Berkshire UK
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48
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de Jager CA, Dye L, de Bruin EA, Butler L, Fletcher J, Lamport DJ, Latulippe ME, Spencer JPE, Wesnes K. Criteria for validation and selection of cognitive tests for investigating the effects of foods and nutrients. Nutr Rev 2014; 72:162-79. [DOI: 10.1111/nure.12094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Celeste A de Jager
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine; University of Cape Town; Cape Town South Africa
| | - Louise Dye
- Institute of Psychological Sciences; Human Appetite Research Unit; University of Leeds; Leeds UK
| | | | - Laurie Butler
- School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences; University of Reading; Reading UK
| | - John Fletcher
- Research and Development, Nutrition; PepsiCo Europe; Berkshire UK
| | - Daniel J Lamport
- School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences; University of Reading; Reading UK
| | - Marie E Latulippe
- International Life Sciences Institute European Branch; Brussels Belgium
| | - Jeremy PE Spencer
- School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences; University of Reading; Reading UK
| | - Keith Wesnes
- Bracket Global; Goring-on-Thames UK
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology; Swinburne University; Melbourne Australia
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49
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Best T, Howe P, Bryan J, Buckley J, Scholey A. Acute effects of a dietary non-starch polysaccharide supplement on cognitive performance in healthy middle-aged adults. Nutr Neurosci 2014; 18:76-86. [PMID: 24621069 DOI: 10.1179/1476830513y.0000000101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Certain plant polysaccharides may provide psychological health benefits. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether they can acutely improve mood and cognitive function. METHOD In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, between subjects design trial, 73 middle-aged adults consumed 4 g of a proprietary mixture of non-starch polysaccharides (NSPs) (Ambrotose® complex), a rice flour placebo, or a sucrose control. Participants completed testing at baseline and 30 minutes post-consumption. Acute effects of consumption on mood, cognition, and blood glucose were evaluated during mental tests designed to induce mental fatigue. RESULTS Significant improvement in recognition and working memory performance was observed in the group that consumed NSP compared with placebo or sucrose. Improvements in memory performance following NSP intake were independent of changes in blood glucose. DISCUSSION This is the first report of acute behavioural improvement following plant polysaccharide intake in healthy middle-aged adults under conditions of mental fatigue. The findings suggest that certain NSP may enhance memory performance through mechanisms other than elevated blood glucose.
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50
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Effects of acute treatment with a tryptophan-rich protein hydrolysate on plasma amino acids, mood and emotional functioning in older women. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2014; 231:4595-610. [PMID: 24858376 PMCID: PMC4231284 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-014-3609-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2013] [Accepted: 04/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Effective functioning of the neurotransmitter serotonin is important for optimal cognitive and emotional function. Dietary supplements able to increase availability to the brain of the precursor amino acid, tryptophan (TRP), and thereby enhance serotonin synthesis, can have measurable impact on these psychological processes. OBJECTIVES This study involves a randomised controlled trial of a TRP-rich egg-white protein hydrolysate (DSM Nutritional Products Ltd., Switzerland) on plasma amino acids, cognition, mood and emotional processing in older women. METHODS Following a baseline test day without treatment, 60 healthy women aged 45-65 years received drinks containing either 2 or 4 g of TRP-rich protein hydrolysate product or 3.11 g casein hydrolysate as a control. One hour later, they undertook a 2-h battery of cognitive and emotional tests. RESULTS The TRP-rich protein hydrolysate produced the expected dose-dependent increase in the ratio of plasma TRP to competing large neutral amino acids. TRP-rich protein hydrolysate (2 g only) prevented both the decline in wellbeing and increase in fatigue seen over the test session in the control group. This treatment dose resulted in a significant shift in emotional processing towards positive words and reduced negative bias in assessing negative facial expressions. Effects on cognition were small and not statistically reliable and are not reported here. However, there was no evidence for any adverse effects. CONCLUSIONS Consumption of a low dose of TRP-rich protein hydrolysate may have beneficial effects on emotional function that could promote feelings of wellbeing, possibly conferring resistance to deterioration in mood in healthy subjects or depressive episodes.
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