Do biscuits boost brain function?
Stories from Physics
for 11-14
14-16
When engaged in a difficult task, you may have justified the consumption of a sweet treat based on the belief that the sugar will help you concentrate. A body of research has examined whether the consumption of carbohydrates, such as glucose, can boost mental function. A review of the literature concluded that there is a consensus that for people with poorly regulated blood sugar who are undertaking cognitively challenging tasks, the consumption of glucose may indeed boost performance. Sadly, the evidence is inconclusive as to whether consuming additional glucose boosts mental function in all cases.
References
Do biscuits boost brain function?
E. L. Gibson, Carbohydrates and mental function: feeding or impeding the brain? Nutrition Bulletin, vol. 32, no. 1, 2007, pp. 71-83.
