A Snack-based Ration Containing Caffeine Increases Caloric Intake and Improves Cognitive Performance
Abstract
Warfighter cognitive performance degrades during sustained operations in part due to difficulty consuming adequate calories and limited access to stimulants such as caffeine. This investigation tested the effectiveness of a snack-based ration, containing caffeinated components, to increase energy and preserve cognitive performance during sustained operations. Eighty-nine Marines consumed either an entree-based (MRE) or a snack-based (FSR) ration during a four-day field exercise with limited sleep. Outcome measures included visual reaction time, logical reasoning, mood state (POMS), and energy intake. Total calories, CHO and caffeine intake was greater (P<0 .05) for FSR compared to MRE in part due to a significant increase in the number of daily eating episodes in those consuming the FSR (P<0.05). Reaction time was faster and fewer lapses in attention occurred in Marines consuming the FSR compared to MRE (P<0.05). There was no difference in logical reasoning between groups. Overall mood deteriorated over the course of the exercise with no difference between ration groups.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA545299
Entities
People
- Andrew J Young
- Betty A. Davis
- Harris R Lieberman
- Holly L. Mcclung
- Julie E. Smith
- Matthew R. Ely
- Phil J. Niro
- Scott J. Montain
- Susan M. Mcgraw
Organizations
- United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine