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Vine CAJ, Spurr TJ, Blacker SD. Food for thought: dietary nootropics for the optimisation of military operators' cognitive performance. BMJ Mil Health 2024:e002706. [PMID: 38851246 DOI: 10.1136/military-2024-002706] [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: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Nootropics are compounds that enhance cognitive performance and have been highlighted as a medium-term human augmentation technology that could support soldier performance. Given the differing ethical, safety and legal considerations associated with the pharmaceutical subset of nootropics, this analysis focuses on dietary supplementation which may enhance cognition during training and operations. Numerous supplements have been investigated as possible nootropics; however, research is often not context specific or of high quality, leading to questions regarding efficacy. There are many other complex cofactors that may affect the efficacy of any dietary nootropic supplement which is designed to improve cognition, such as external stressors (eg, sleep deprivation, high physical workloads), task specifics (eg, cognitive processes required) and other psychological constructs (eg, placebo/nocebo effect). Moreover, military population considerations, such as prior nutritional knowledge and current supplement consumption (eg, caffeine), along with other issues such as supplement contamination, should be evaluated when considering dietary nootropic use within military populations. However, given the increasing requirement for cognitive capabilities by military personnel to complete role-related tasks, dietary nootropics could be highly beneficial in specific contexts. While current evidence is broadly weak, nutritional nootropic supplements may be of most use to the military end user during periods of high military specific stress. Currently, caffeine and L-tyrosine are the leading nootropic supplement candidates within the military context. Future military-specific research on nootropics should be of high quality and use externally valid methodologies to maximise the translation of research to practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - T J Spurr
- Institute of Applied Sciences, University of Chichester, Chichester, UK
| | - Sam D Blacker
- Institute of Applied Sciences, University of Chichester, Chichester, UK
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2
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Ahles S, Joris PJ, Plat J. Short-term Aronia melanocarpa extract supplementation improves cognitive performance: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over study in healthy young adults. Eur J Nutr 2024:10.1007/s00394-024-03381-3. [PMID: 38656355 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-024-03381-3] [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: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Evidence on the potential beneficial effects of anthocyanin-rich foods and supplements on cognitive performance is mainly based on acute or long-term studies in older adults. However, short-term studies focusing on a younger population are lacking. Therefore, short-term effects of Aronia melanocarpa extract (AME) supplementation on cognitive performance were investigated in healthy young adults. Potential underlying mechanisms were also addressed. METHODS A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over study was performed involving 35 apparently healthy young adults. Participants consumed AME (180 mg anthocyanins/day) or a placebo for 1 week, separated by at least 2 weeks of wash-out. Cognitive performance was assessed using the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB). Furthermore, arterial stiffness (carotid-to-femoral pulse wave velocity), retinal microvascular calibers (fundus photography), and serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) concentrations were measured at baseline and after 1 week. RESULTS Participants had a mean age of 25 ± 4 years and an average BMI of 23.4 ± 2.7 kg/m2. Compliance was excellent and the study product was well-tolerated. As compared to placebo, movement time was significantly reduced by 4.8% within the five-choice reaction time test after 1 week of AME supplementation (intervention effect: - 12 ms; p < 0.05). Memory and executive function did however not change. Serum BDNF concentrations were significantly higher after AME supplementation as compared to placebo (+ 5.7%; intervention effect: 1.8 ng/mL; p < 0.05). However, arterial stiffness and retinal microvascular calibers were not affected. CONCLUSION Short-term AME supplementation beneficially affected cognitive performance as attention and psychomotor speed improved. Serum BDNF concentrations were increased, but vascular function markers were not affected. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION The study was registered on Clinical Trials under NCT03793777 on January 4th, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne Ahles
- Department of Nutrition and Movement Sciences, Institute of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- BioActor BV, Gaetano Martinolaan 50, 6229 GS, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Peter J Joris
- Department of Nutrition and Movement Sciences, Institute of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jogchum Plat
- Department of Nutrition and Movement Sciences, Institute of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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3
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Harris BN, Yavari M, Ramalingam L, Mounce PL, Alers Maldonado K, Chavira AC, Thomas S, Scoggin S, Biltz C, Moustaid-Moussa N. Impact of Long-Term Dietary High Fat and Eicosapentaenoic Acid on Behavior and Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis Activity in Amyloidogenic APPswe/PSEN1dE9 Mice. Neuroendocrinology 2024; 114:553-576. [PMID: 38301617 PMCID: PMC11153005 DOI: 10.1159/000536586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alzheimer's disease (AD) alters neurocognitive and emotional function and causes dysregulation of multiple homeostatic processes. The leading AD framework pins amyloid beta plaques and tau tangles as primary drivers of dysfunction. However, many additional variables, including diet, stress, sex, age, and pain tolerance, interact in ways that are not fully understood to impact the onset and progression of AD pathophysiology. We asked: (1) does high-fat diet, compared to low-fat diet, exacerbate AD pathophysiology and behavioral decline? And, (2) can supplementation with eicosapentaenoic (EPA)-enriched fish oil prevent high-fat-diet-induced changes? METHODS Male and female APPswePSdE9 mice, and their non-transgenic littermates, were randomly assigned to a diet condition (low-fat, high-fat, high-fat with EPA) and followed from 2 to 10 months of age. We assessed baseline corticosterone concentration during aging, pain tolerance, cognitive function, stress coping, and corticosterone response to a stressor. RESULTS Transgenic mice were consistently more active than non-transgenic mice but did not perform worse on either cognitive task, even though we recently reported that these same transgenic mice exhibited metabolic changes and had increased amyloid beta. Mice fed high-fat diet had higher baseline and post-stressor corticosterone, but diet did not impact cognition or pain tolerance. Sex had the biggest influence, as female mice were consistently more active and had higher corticosterone than males. CONCLUSION Overall, diet, genotype, and sex did not have consistent impacts on outcomes. We found little support for predicted interactions and correlations, suggesting diet impacts metabolic function and amyloid beta levels, but these outcomes do not translate to changes in behaviors measured here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breanna N. Harris
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
- Obesity Research Institute, Office of Research & Innovation, Texas Tech University
| | - Mahsa Yavari
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
- Obesity Research Institute, Office of Research & Innovation, Texas Tech University
- Current address: Department of Molecular Metabolism, School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA
| | - Latha Ramalingam
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
- Obesity Research Institute, Office of Research & Innovation, Texas Tech University
- Current address: Department of Nutritional and Food Studies Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY
| | - P. Logan Mounce
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
| | | | - Angela C. Chavira
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
| | - Sarah Thomas
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
| | - Shane Scoggin
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
| | - Caroline Biltz
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
| | - Naima Moustaid-Moussa
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
- Obesity Research Institute, Office of Research & Innovation, Texas Tech University
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4
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Schwager LE, Helwig NJ, Rogers EM, Banks NF, Alpers JP, Schulte SL, Lockwood CM, Jenkins NDM. Novel Energy Drink Improves Cognitive Function and Mood, without Influencing Myocardial Oxygen Demand or Ventricular Repolarization in Adult Gamers: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Trial. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN NUTRITION ASSOCIATION 2024; 43:33-47. [PMID: 37186677 DOI: 10.1080/27697061.2023.2207096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the efficacy of acute consumption of a novel energy drink (C4S) versus placebo for improving cognitive and gaming performance and mood. Secondarily, we examined the cardiovascular safety profile of acute C4S consumption. METHODS Forty-five healthy, young adult video gamers completed two experimental visits in randomized order where they consumed either C4S or a placebo and then completed a validated battery of neurocognitive tests, played five video games, and completed a mood state survey. Blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), oxygen saturation, and electrocardiogram measurements were taken at baseline and repeated throughout each visit. RESULTS Acute consumption of C4S improved cognitive flexibility (absolute mean or median difference [95% CI] = +4.3 [2.2-6.4]; p < 0.001; d = 0.63), executive function (+4.3 [2.3-6.3]; p < 0.001; d = 0.63), sustained attention (+2.1 [0.6-3.6]; p = 0.01; d = 0.44), motor speed (+2.9 [0.8-4.9]; p < 0.001; d = 0.44), psychomotor speed (+3.9 [0.1-7.7]; p = 0.04; d = 0.32) working memory (+1.0 [0.1-1.9]; p = 0.02; d = 0.35), and performance in the two-dimensional visuospatial game Tetris (+463 [-419-2,065] pts; p = 0.049; d = 0.30) compared to placebo. C4S also improved Fatigue-Inertia (-1 [-3-0]; p = 0.004; d = 0.45), Vigor-Activity (+2.4 [1.3-3.6]; p < 0.001; d = 0.64), Friendliness (+0 [0-1]; p = 0.04; d = 0.32), and Total Mood Disturbance (-3 [-6-0]; p = 0.002; d = 0.44). BP increased slightly in C4S versus placebo, while HR decreased from baseline to post-drink in the C4S condition. Rate-pressure-product was higher in C4S versus placebo independent of time but did not increase from baseline. There was no effect on corrected QT interval. CONCLUSION Acute consumption of C4S was efficacious for cognitive performance, visuospatial gaming performance, and mood enhancement, and had no effect on myocardial oxygen demand or ventricular repolarization, despite being associated with increases in BP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Schwager
- Integrative Laboratory of Applied Physiology and Lifestyle Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Nathaniel J Helwig
- Integrative Laboratory of Applied Physiology and Lifestyle Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Emily M Rogers
- Integrative Laboratory of Applied Physiology and Lifestyle Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Nile F Banks
- Integrative Laboratory of Applied Physiology and Lifestyle Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Justin P Alpers
- Integrative Laboratory of Applied Physiology and Lifestyle Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Sydni L Schulte
- Integrative Laboratory of Applied Physiology and Lifestyle Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | | | - Nathaniel D M Jenkins
- Integrative Laboratory of Applied Physiology and Lifestyle Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Abboud Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
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5
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Hu X, Wang L, Deng J, Xu H, Song K, Bu L, Pang B. Dietary nitrate accelerates the healing of infected skin wounds in mice by increasing microvascular density. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 686:149176. [PMID: 37924670 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.149176] [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: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
As skin injuries resulting from acute trauma, burns, and chronic diseases present significant challenges to healthcare systems worldwide, the promotion of skin wound healing remains an unmet therapeutic area. Dietary nitrate serves as a crucial pathway for the production of nitric oxide, which plays various physiological roles in the body, including vasodilation, increased blood flow, and antioxidant activity. However, the impact of dietary nitrate on skin wound healing remains uncertain. This study aimed to investigate the role of dietary nitrate in infected skin wound healing using a mouse model. We created a full-thickness wound infection model in mice and examine the effects of dietary nitrate (0.5 mmol/kg/d and 1 mmol/kg/d) on wound healing. The results demonstrated that dietary nitrate significantly increased serum nitrate and nitrite levels, leading to accelerated wound healing by increasing microvascular density, promoting collagen deposition and re-epithelialization. Moreover, nitrate supplementation exhibited a certain degree of reduction in inflammatory factors within the body. Our study also found that 1 mmol/kg/d nitrate has a more effective therapeutic effect and can increase blood perfusion and expedite the formation of new blood vessels, thereby promoting skin wound healing. These results indicate that dietary nitrate presents a novel therapeutic approach for infected skin wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodan Hu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China; School of Stomatology of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 288003, China.
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China; School of Stomatology of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 288003, China.
| | - Jiangzhi Deng
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China; School of Stomatology of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 288003, China
| | - Haoyue Xu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China; School of Stomatology of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 288003, China
| | - Kai Song
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China; School of Stomatology of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 288003, China
| | - Lingxue Bu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China; School of Stomatology of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 288003, China.
| | - Baoxing Pang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China; School of Stomatology of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 288003, China.
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6
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Jędrejko K, Catlin O, Stewart T, Anderson A, Muszyńska B, Catlin DH. Unauthorized ingredients in "nootropic" dietary supplements: A review of the history, pharmacology, prevalence, international regulations, and potential as doping agents. Drug Test Anal 2023. [PMID: 37357012 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
The first nootropic prohibited in sport was fonturacetam (4-phenylpiracetam, carphedon) in 1998. Presented here 25 years later is a broad-scale consideration of the history, pharmacology, prevalence, regulations, and doping potential of nootropics viewed through a lens of 50 selected dietary supplements (DS) marketed as "cognitive enhancement," "brain health," "brain boosters," or "nootropics," with a focus on unauthorized ingredients. Nootropic DS have risen to prominence over the last decade often as multicomponent formulations of bioactive ingredients presenting compelling pharmacological questions and potential public health concerns. Many popular nootropics are unauthorized food or DS ingredients according to the European Commission including huperzine A, yohimbine, and dimethylaminoethanol; unapproved pharmaceuticals like phenibut or emoxypine (mexidol); previously registered drugs like meclofenoxate or reserpine; EU authorized pharmaceuticals like piracetam or vinpocetine; infamous doping agents like methylhexaneamine or dimethylbutylamine; and other investigational substances and peptides. Several are authorized DS ingredients in the United States resulting in significant global variability as to what qualifies as a legal nootropic. Prohibited stimulants or ß2-agonists commonly used in "pre-workout," "weight loss," or "thermogenic" DS such as octodrine, hordenine, or higenamine are often stacked with nootropic substances. While stimulants and ß2-agonists are defined as doping agents by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), many nootropics are not, although some may qualify as non-approved substances or related substances under catch-all language in the WADA Prohibited List. Synergistic combinations, excessive dosing, or recently researched pharmacology may justify listing certain nootropics as doping agents or warrant additional attention in future regulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karol Jędrejko
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Oliver Catlin
- Banned Substances Control Group (BSCG), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Timothy Stewart
- Banned Substances Control Group (BSCG), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ashley Anderson
- International Sports Pharmacists Network, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Bożena Muszyńska
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Don H Catlin
- Banned Substances Control Group (BSCG), Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Medicine and Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, California, USA
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7
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Daglas-Georgiou R, Bryce S, Smith G, Kaur M, Cheng N, De Rozario M, Wood SJ, Allott K. Treatments for objective and subjective cognitive functioning in young people with depression: Systematic review of current evidence. Early Interv Psychiatry 2022; 16:1057-1074. [PMID: 34825492 DOI: 10.1111/eip.13248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM Cognitive deficits are recognized features of depressive disorders in youth aged 12-25. These deficits are distressing, predict functional impairment and limit the effectiveness of psychological therapies. Cognitive enhancement using behavioural, biochemical or physical treatments may be useful in young people with depression, but studies have not been synthesized. The aim was to systematically review the evidence for treatments for objective and subjective cognitive functioning, and their acceptability and functional outcomes in people aged 12-25 with depression. METHOD Three electronic databases were searched for articles using pre-specified criteria. Pharmacological treatments were not eligible. Risk of bias was rated using the Cochrane Collaboration's revised risk-of-bias tool. Dual full-text article screening, data extraction and quality ratings were completed. RESULTS Twelve studies were included for review (median participant age: 20.39 years), five of which were randomized-controlled trials (RCTs). Sample sizes were generally small (median = 23; range: 9-46). Eight studies investigated behavioural treatments including aerobic exercise, cognitive training and education or strategy-based methods. Four studies examined repetitive transcranial magnetic brain stimulation (rTMS). Most behavioural treatments revealed preliminary evidence of improved cognitive function in youth depression. Consent rates were greatest for exercise- and education-based approaches, which may indicate higher acceptability levels. Findings from rTMS trials were mixed, with only half showing cognitive improvement. Functional outcomes were reported by three behavioural treatment trials and one rTMS trial, with functional improvement reported only in the former. Some concern of risk of bias was found in each RCT. CONCLUSION Behavioural treatments, such as exercise, cognitive training and education/strategy-focused techniques, show encouraging results and appear to be acceptable methods of addressing cognitive deficits in youth depression based on participation rates. Brain stimulation and biochemical treatments (e.g., nutrient-based treatment) require further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rothanthi Daglas-Georgiou
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shayden Bryce
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gabriel Smith
- Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Manreena Kaur
- Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), Randwick, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Kensington, Australia.,Epworth Centre for Innovation in Mental Health, Epworth Healthcare and Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nicholas Cheng
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Magdalene De Rozario
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephen J Wood
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | - Kelly Allott
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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8
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Gonzalez DE, McAllister MJ, Waldman HS, Ferrando AA, Joyce J, Barringer ND, Dawes JJ, Kieffer AJ, Harvey T, Kerksick CM, Stout JR, Ziegenfuss TN, Zapp A, Tartar JL, Heileson JL, VanDusseldorp TA, Kalman DS, Campbell BI, Antonio J, Kreider RB. International society of sports nutrition position stand: tactical athlete nutrition. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 2022; 19:267-315. [PMID: 35813846 PMCID: PMC9261739 DOI: 10.1080/15502783.2022.2086017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Drew E. Gonzalez
- Exercise & Sport Nutrition Laboratory, Human Clinical Research Facility, Department of Health & Kinesiology Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Matthew J. McAllister
- Texas State University, Metabolic and Applied Physiology Laboratory, Department of Health & Human Performance, San Marcos, TX, USA
| | - Hunter S. Waldman
- University of North Alabama, Department of Kinesiology, Florence, AL, USA
| | - Arny A. Ferrando
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Department of Geriatrics, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Jill Joyce
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Nutritional Sciences, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Nicholas D. Barringer
- US. Army-Baylor Master’s Program in Nutrition, Department of Nutrition, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - J. Jay Dawes
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Kinesiology, Applied Health, and Recreation, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Adam J. Kieffer
- Brooke Army Medical Center, Department of Nutritional Medicine, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Travis Harvey
- United States Special Operations Command, Preservation of the Force and Family, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Chad M. Kerksick
- Lindenwood University, Exercise and Performance Nutrition Laboratory, College of Science, Technology, and Health, St. Charles, MO, USA
| | - Jeffrey R. Stout
- University of Central Florida, Institute of Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation Sciences, School of Kinesiology and Physical Therapy, Orlando, FL, USA
| | | | | | - Jamie L. Tartar
- Nova Southeastern University, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Jeffery L. Heileson
- Baylor University, Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Waco, TX, USA
| | | | - Douglas S. Kalman
- Dr. Kiran C Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Nutrition Department, Davie, FL, USA
| | - Bill I. Campbell
- University of South Florida, Performance & Physique Enhancement Laboratory, Exercise Science Program, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Jose Antonio
- Fight Science Laboratory, Nova Southeastern University, Department of Health and Human Performance, Davie, FL, USA
| | - Richard B. Kreider
- Exercise & Sport Nutrition Laboratory, Human Clinical Research Facility, Department of Health & Kinesiology Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
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9
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Effects of Multi-Ingredient Pre-Workout Supplement and Caffeine on Bench Press Performance: A Single-Blind Cross-Over Study. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14091750. [PMID: 35565718 PMCID: PMC9105861 DOI: 10.3390/nu14091750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The problem addressed in this study is the appropriateness of using different pre-training supplementation strategies and their ability to improve training performance and psychological measures. The aim of the study is the evaluation of the effectiveness of a multi-ingredient pre-workout supplement (MIPS) containing beta-alanine, L-citrulline malate, arginine alpha-ketoglutarate, L-taurine, L-tyrosine and caffeine compared to an exact dosage of anhydrous caffeine in bench press strength endurance, feeling scale (FS), felt arousal scale (FAS) and session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE). A group of fifteen resistance-trained males, weighing 83.92 ± 8.95 kg and having an average of 5.6 ± 3.38 years of training experience, tested their bench press 10 repetition maximum (79.01 ± 12.13). In a cross-over manner, they participated in two sessions where they were blinded to the order of supplementation they were given: either a MIPS including caffeine or caffeine alone. They completed the bench press strength endurance test with pre- and post-training psychological assessments containing FS, FAS and sRPE. Bench press repetition volume was greater after anhydrous caffeine than MIPS supplementation with no difference in psychological measures. These results indicate that MIPS supplementation is less ergogenic and cost effective than caffeine alone.
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10
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Peoples GE, Larsen P, Bowes HM, Coombes J, Drain JR, Groeller H, McLennan PL. The influence of a basic military training diet on whole blood fatty acid profile and the Omega-3 Index of Australian Army recruits. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2021; 47:151-158. [PMID: 34587469 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2021-0459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This study described the whole blood fatty acid profile and Omega-3 Index (O3I) of Australian Army recruits at the commencement and completion of basic military training (BMT). Eighty (80) males (17-34 y, 77.4±13.0 kg, 43.5±4.3 mL/kg/min) and 37 females (17-45 y, 64.3±8.8 kg, 39.3±2.7 mL/kg/min) volunteered to participate (N=117). Whole blood samples of each recruit were collected using a finger prick in weeks 1 and 11 (n=82) and analysed via gas chromatography for the relative proportions of each fatty acid (mean [95% CI]). The macronutrient characteristics of the diet offerings was also determined. At commencement there was a low omega-3 status (sum of omega-3; 4.95% [4.82-5.07]) and O3I (5.03% [4.90-5.16]) and no recruit recorded an O3I >8% (desirable). The omega-6/omega-3 (7.04 [6.85-7.23]) and arachidonic acid / eicosapentaenoic acid (AA/EPA) (18.70 [17.86-19.53]) ratios for the cohort were also undesirable. The BMT mess menu provided a maximum of 190 mg/day of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and 260 mg/day of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The O3I of the recruits was lower by week 11 (4.62% [4.51-4.78], p<0.05), the omega-6/omega-3 increased (7.27 [7.07-7.47] p<0.05) and the AA/EPA remained elevated (17.85 [16.89-18.81]). In conclusion, Australian Army recruits' omega-3 status remained undesirable during BMT and deserves nutritional attention. Novelty Bullets • Australian Army recruits' Omega-3 Index, at the commencement of BMT, was reflective of the Western-style diet. • The BMT diet offered minimum opportunity for daily EPA and DHA consumption. • Every recruit experienced a further reduction of their Omega-3 Index during BMT.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jace R Drain
- Defence Science and Technology Group, 2222, Melbourne, Australia;
| | - Herbert Groeller
- University of Wollongong, School of Medicine, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia.,University of Wollongong, 8691, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia;
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11
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Ippoliti I, Menniti-Ippolito F, Mazzanti G, Di Giacomo S. Suspected adverse reactions to performance enhancing dietary supplements: Spontaneous reports from the Italian phytovigilance system. Phytother Res 2021; 35:3246-3261. [PMID: 33569860 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7040] [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] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Herbal tonic and adaptogens are often used to improve overall well-being. However, few clinical evidence supports their use and their safety is not known before marketing. In this context, the aim of our study was to analyze the spontaneous reports of suspected adverse reactions (ARs) to performance enhancing herbal dietary supplements collected by the Italian Phytovigilance System. Between March 2002 and September 2020, 110 spontaneous reports were collected, 58 of which related to products containing botanicals, alone or in association. Twenty-three serious reactions were reported, 21 of which required hospitalization, one was life-threatening and another caused disability. Dermatological and cardiovascular reactions were the most frequent. Hepatic ARs were the most serious (9 out of 10). A positive dechallenge was indicated in 69% of cases, while a positive rechallenge occurred in 15%. Concomitant use of other products was present in 18 reports (31%), while predisposing conditions were indicated in 17 (29%). Present data highlight safety concerns on herbal dietary supplements used as cognitive and physical performance enhancers, mainly due to their quality and use without expert supervision. Considering that postmarketing surveillance is not required for these products, spontaneous reports represent the only tool to point out risks related to food supplements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Ippoliti
- National Centre for Drug Research and Evaluation, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Gabriela Mazzanti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Di Giacomo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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12
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Auxtero MD, Chalante S, Abade MR, Jorge R, Fernandes AI. Potential Herb-Drug Interactions in the Management of Age-Related Cognitive Dysfunction. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:124. [PMID: 33478035 PMCID: PMC7835864 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13010124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Late-life mild cognitive impairment and dementia represent a significant burden on healthcare systems and a unique challenge to medicine due to the currently limited treatment options. Plant phytochemicals have been considered in alternative, or complementary, prevention and treatment strategies. Herbals are consumed as such, or as food supplements, whose consumption has recently increased. However, these products are not exempt from adverse effects and pharmacological interactions, presenting a special risk in aged, polymedicated individuals. Understanding pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions is warranted to avoid undesirable adverse drug reactions, which may result in unwanted side-effects or therapeutic failure. The present study reviews the potential interactions between selected bioactive compounds (170) used by seniors for cognitive enhancement and representative drugs of 10 pharmacotherapeutic classes commonly prescribed to the middle-aged adults, often multimorbid and polymedicated, to anticipate and prevent risks arising from their co-administration. A literature review was conducted to identify mutual targets affected (inhibition/induction/substrate), the frequency of which was taken as a measure of potential interaction. Although a limited number of drugs were studied, from this work, interaction with other drugs affecting the same targets may be anticipated and prevented, constituting a valuable tool for healthcare professionals in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria D. Auxtero
- CiiEM, Interdisciplinary Research Centre Egas Moniz, Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz, Quinta da Granja, Monte de Caparica, 2829-511 Caparica, Portugal; (M.D.A.); (S.C.); (M.R.A.); (R.J.)
| | - Susana Chalante
- CiiEM, Interdisciplinary Research Centre Egas Moniz, Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz, Quinta da Granja, Monte de Caparica, 2829-511 Caparica, Portugal; (M.D.A.); (S.C.); (M.R.A.); (R.J.)
| | - Mário R. Abade
- CiiEM, Interdisciplinary Research Centre Egas Moniz, Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz, Quinta da Granja, Monte de Caparica, 2829-511 Caparica, Portugal; (M.D.A.); (S.C.); (M.R.A.); (R.J.)
| | - Rui Jorge
- CiiEM, Interdisciplinary Research Centre Egas Moniz, Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz, Quinta da Granja, Monte de Caparica, 2829-511 Caparica, Portugal; (M.D.A.); (S.C.); (M.R.A.); (R.J.)
- Polytechnic Institute of Santarém, School of Agriculture, Quinta do Galinheiro, 2001-904 Santarém, Portugal
- CIEQV, Life Quality Research Centre, IPSantarém/IPLeiria, Avenida Dr. Mário Soares, 110, 2040-413 Rio Maior, Portugal
| | - Ana I. Fernandes
- CiiEM, Interdisciplinary Research Centre Egas Moniz, Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz, Quinta da Granja, Monte de Caparica, 2829-511 Caparica, Portugal; (M.D.A.); (S.C.); (M.R.A.); (R.J.)
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13
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Effects of the Human Gut Microbiota on Cognitive Performance, Brain Structure and Function: A Narrative Review. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12103009. [PMID: 33007941 PMCID: PMC7601389 DOI: 10.3390/nu12103009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Enhancing or preserving cognitive performance of personnel working in stressful, demanding and/or high tempo environments is vital for optimal performance. Emerging research suggests that the human gut microbiota may provide a potential avenue to enhance cognition. This review examines the relationship between the human gut microbiota, including modulators of the microbiota on cognition and/or brain function. For this narrative review, a total of n = 17 relevant human research items of a possible 1765 published between January 2010 and November 2018 were identified. Two overarching design methods for synthesis were observed: correlational or pre/post intervention. Limited correlational design studies linking microbiota to cognitive/brain structure endpoints existed (n = 5); however, correlations between microbiota diversity and enhanced cognitive flexibility and executive function were observed. Gut microbiota intervention studies to improve cognition or brain function (n = 12) generally resulted in improved cognition (11/12), in which improvements were observed in visuospatial memory, verbal learning and memory, and aspects of attentional vigilance. Limited studies were available to draw a detailed conclusion; however, available evidence suggests that gut microbiota is linked to cognitive performance and that manipulation of gut microbiota could be a promising avenue for enhancing cognition which warrants further research.
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14
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Napoletano F, Schifano F, Corkery JM, Guirguis A, Arillotta D, Zangani C, Vento A. The Psychonauts' World of Cognitive Enhancers. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:546796. [PMID: 33024436 PMCID: PMC7516264 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.546796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing availability of novel psychoactive substances (NPS), including cognitive enhancers (CEs) which can be used in the treatment of certain mental health disorders. While treating cognitive deficit symptoms in neuropsychiatric or neurodegenerative disorders using CEs might have significant benefits for patients, the increasing recreational use of these substances by healthy individuals raises many clinical, medico-legal, and ethical issues. Moreover, it has become very challenging for clinicians to keep up-to-date with CEs currently available as comprehensive official lists do not exist. METHODS Using a web crawler (NPSfinder®), the present study aimed at assessing psychonaut fora/platforms to better understand the online situation regarding CEs. We compared NPSfinder® entries with those from the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) and from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) NPS databases up to spring 2019. Any substance that was identified by NPSfinder® was considered a CE if it was either described as having nootropic abilities by psychonauts or if it was listed among the known CEs by Froestl and colleagues. RESULTS A total of 142 unique CEs were identified by NPSfinder®. They were divided into 10 categories, including plants/herbs/products (29%), prescribed drugs (17%), image and performance enhancing drugs (IPEDs) (15%), psychostimulants (15%), miscellaneous (8%), Phenethylamines (6%), GABAergic drugs (5%), cannabimimetic (4%), tryptamines derivatives (0.5%), and piperazine derivatives (0.5%). A total of 105 chemically different substances were uniquely identified by NPSfinder®. Only one CE was uniquely identified by the EMCDDA; no CE was uniquely identified by the UNODC. CONCLUSIONS These results show that NPSfinder® is helpful as part of an Early Warning System, which could update clinicians with the growing numbers and types of nootropics in the increasingly difficult-to-follow internet world. Improving clinicians' knowledge of NPS could promote more effective prevention and harm reduction measures in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Napoletano
- Department of Mental Health, Homerton University Hospital, East London Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse, and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Fabrizio Schifano
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse, and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - John Martin Corkery
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse, and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Amira Guirguis
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse, and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
- Swansea University Medical School, Institute of Life Sciences 2, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Davide Arillotta
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse, and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Caroline Zangani
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse, and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Vento
- Department of Mental Health, Addictions’ Observatory (ODDPSS), Rome, Italy
- Department of Mental Health, Guglielmo Marconi” University, Rome, Italy
- Department of Mental Health, ASL Roma 2, Rome, Italy
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