The Effect of Pre Exercise Carbohydrate Consumption on Cognitive Function

The Effect of Pre Exercise Carbohydrate Consumption on Cognitive Function

Glucose supplementation before exercise has been shown to improve exogenous glucose availability which may alter cognitive function. We tested the consumption of two carbohydrate containing drinks, Performance Drink® (PD) and Gatorade® (GA) prior to exercise to determine if they will result in a higher blood glucose level during prolonged exercise compared with a water placebo (PL). We hypothesize that in a hydrated state there will be a cognitive function decline after two hours of exercise on a cycle ergometer. This cognitive decline will be lessened with carbohydrate supplementation. Furthermore, work output will be highest with carbohydrate supplementation.