Carbohydrate mouth rinse effects on physical and cognitive performance: Benefits and limitations in sports.

During the last decade, it has been suggested that the benefits of oral carbohydrates during short and high intensity exercise < 1 h , ≥ 75 % V ˙ O 2 max are likely related to a central action probably mediated by receptors in the mouth and in the gastrointestinal tract. Interestingly, when individuals rinsed their mouths with a carbohydrate solution, afferent neural signals activate several brain areas enabling to modify motor output. Experimental studies report a 2–3% of physical performance enhancement during exercise shorter than 1 h. A beneficial effect on high-intensity intermittent exercise has also been reported, specifically in the late bouts of exercise. Moreover, several benefits related to cognition have been suggested. Rating of perceived exertion as well as motor skill-specific during exercise may be enhanced, which could provide a substantial performance improvement. Finally, carbohydrate mouth rinsing appears to be an interesting nutritional strategy in a wide range of sports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]