Evidence supporting the use of: Glucose
For the health condition: Concentration (poor)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Glucose has been studied for its effects on cognitive function, including concentration and attention. Scientific evidence indicates that glucose, as the primary energy source for the brain, can temporarily enhance certain aspects of cognitive performance, particularly in situations where mental effort is high or during prolonged tasks. Several controlled studies have shown that consuming glucose (typically in the form of a sugary drink or tablet) before or during cognitive testing can lead to modest, short-term improvements in memory, attention, and concentration, especially in individuals who have not eaten recently or are performing demanding mental tasks.
The proposed mechanism is based on the fact that neuronal activity relies heavily on glucose metabolism, and mild increases in blood glucose can temporarily optimize brain function. However, these benefits are generally short-lived and more pronounced in situations involving cognitive fatigue or fasting. Chronic or excessive glucose intake, on the other hand, is not beneficial and may have adverse effects on overall health.
It is important to note that while the "glucose facilitation effect" is supported by research, the magnitude of the effect is relatively small and highly context-dependent. There is no evidence that routine glucose supplementation significantly improves concentration in healthy, well-nourished individuals during normal daily activities. Most guidelines do not recommend glucose as a general aid for concentration outside of specific circumstances (e.g., hypoglycemia, fasting, or cognitively demanding tasks).
Other ingredients used for Concentration (poor)
acetyl l-carnitineamino acids
ashwagandha
black tea
blueberry
caffeine
citicoline
coffee fruit
DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
fish oil
ginseng
green tea
guarana
guayusa
lion's mane
mackerel
matcha
Acetyl-L-Tyrosine
nicotinamide riboside
omega-3 fatty acids
peppermint oil
polygala root
rhodiola
vinpocetine
vitamin B
vitamin D
zinc
gastrodia
yerba mate
cocoa
DMPX
1,3,7-Trimethylpurine-2,6-dione
Alpha glyceryl
Adrafinil
Algal protein
Aniracetam
Beta-hydroxybutyrate
Brahmi
bacoside
Coca
Chocolate
Convolvulus prostratus
Convolvulus Pluricaulis
cola nut
glucose
Glycine
Other health conditions supported by glucose
Athletic and Exercise AidsBody Building
Concentration (poor)
Debility
Dehydration
Energy (lack of)
Fatigue
Hypoglycemia
Memory and Brain Function
Wasting
Weight Gain