Does Sugar Increase Mental Performance? Truth Or Myth?

Until recently, many people mistakenly believed that sugar increases mental performance. But the latest studies in the field do not agree with this statement. Nowadays, scientists know that the body has very effective mechanisms to supply glucose to the brain, even without consuming sugar.

Does sugar increase mental performance? Truth or myth?

Some scientific studies associate the administration of sugar with an improvement in short-term memory. This administration usually consists of the consumption of a sugary drink, and the results show that intense mental actions respond well to the administration of glucose.

Until recently, experts claimed that the brain works optimally with 25 grams of glucose circulating in the bloodstream, which is about the amount of sugar contained in a banana. But the latest findings show that people with better glucose tolerance perform better in terms of memory even at lower doses.

This situation is essential for people with diabetes, who develop insulin resistance, their body losing the ability to process sugar properly. Therefore, the body has very effective mechanisms to obtain glucose from proteins and fatty acids to maintain a constant level of blood sugar. In this way, the brain receives the right amount of glucose, ensuring high mental performance.

In addition, studies have shown that hydration plays an important role in increasing cognitive performance. Therefore, an individual who is even slightly dehydrated will get lower scores on tests related to memory, concentration, attention, etc.

Refined sugar: worse than complex carbohydrates?

Some researchers claim that refined sugar intake results in short-term memory loss. Studies have also shown that sugar intake can sometimes even lead to cognitive impairment and the development of complex diseases.

In addition, the incidence of ADHD is higher in adolescents on a diet high in saturated fats and refined sugars, compared to those who follow healthier diets.

Foods that increase mental performance

Although simple sugar can adversely affect cognitive function, there are other nutrients that can improve brain function. An example is caffeine consumed in moderation, which serves as a natural stimulant and helps maintain brain health.

Also, nitrites present in foods such as beets increase vasodilation and therefore blood flow to the brain. Thus, a greater amount of beneficial nutrients reaches the brain, and cognitive performance is improved.

Also, some vitamins, such as vitamin C, can have positive effects on mental performance and overall health. These vitamins can help prevent cognitive impairment, such as that seen in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.

So does sugar increase mental performance?

Glucose is the main source of fuel for the brain. However, the consumption of sugary foods is not necessary to ensure the proper functioning of the brain. The body has very effective mechanisms that ensure a sufficient supply of glucose to the brain, so that all its functions are performed properly.

In fact, the consumption of simple sugar can lead to poor performance of cognitive functions and the development of complex diseases. So, if you want to improve your mental performance and brain function, it is best to serve a healthy, balanced meal. In addition, if you need a quick boost, you can eat foods rich in vitamin C and nitrites, for example.