SÃO PAULO, Brazil—Endurance athletes who use a carbohydrate mouth rinse show improved exercise performance, possibly via activation of brain areas linked to motivation and reward, according to a research review (Nutr J. 2010;9:33. DOI: 10.1186/1475-2891-9-33). Researchers from the University of São Paulo noted studies have shown carbohydrate supplementation can improve endurance exercise performance by maintaining glycemic load and sparing glycogen. However, they noted more recent research has explored whether some of the ergogenic effects of carbohydrate are exerted via the central nervous system.

 

They cited several studies showing a possible effect on brain receptors. Several studies reported cyclists who rinsed with a carbohydrate solution say improvements in time performance and power compared to placebo, with MRI evaluations showing the mouth rinse activated areas of the brain related to motivation and reward during the exercise. Further, runners who used a carbohydrate mouth rinse covered greater distance compared to those using a placebo rinse. Again, there was diminished subjective perception of exercise intensity among subjects using the carbohydrate rinse.

The researchers concluded the use of a carbohydrate mouth rinse may be an "interesting nutritional strategy" that could help athletes improve endurance performance. They added the role of the rinse in affecting mechanisms of central fatigue should also be explored, as should the possible use in sports related to strength and power.

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