This study investigates whether rinsing the mouth with a carbohydrate solution can improve brain oxygenation and cognitive function during high-intensity exercise. Eleven trained cyclists participated in multiple exercise sessions under different mouth rinse conditions. Brain oxygenation, perceived exertion, and cognitive performance were measured. The goal is to understand if this simple technique can support both physical and mental performance during demanding exercise.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
BASIC_SCIENCE
Masking
DOUBLE
Enrollment
11
A 6.4% maltodextrin solution (64 g/L) was prepared using Nutricost Maltodextrin Powder. Participants performed five mouth rinses per trial, each using 25 mL of the solution for 10 seconds before expectorating. Each rinse was followed by a 30-second rest. Participants were instructed not to swallow the solution. Rinsing procedure was standardized across all sessions.
A placebo solution containing 0.05 g/L of non-caloric sucralose in distilled water was used to match sweetness and viscosity of the CHO-MR. Participants performed five rinses of 25 mL for 10 seconds each, spitting out the solution after each rinse. 30-second rest intervals followed each rinse. Swallowing was not allowed. Rinse frequency, volume, and duration were standardized.
CHA University, Human Performance Lab
Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Changes in prefrontal cortex oxygenation (ΔO2Hb)
Time frame: Immediately post-intervention and post-time trial (within same day)
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Participants listened to high-tempo music (120 bpm) for 15 minutes before exercise using standardized earbuds. Music was selected from a public YouTube playlist titled "120 BPM Best Dance Music for Running and Working Out." Volume was calibrated at 65 dB (50% of max device volume). Auditory conditions were standardized across all participants.