Effects of Dehydration and Fluid Ingestion on Cognition.

The effects of exercise-induced dehydration and fluid ingestion on men's cognitive performance were assessed. Eleven young men attended separate sessions in which each individual cycled in a controlled environment at 60% of V̇_2max for periods of 15, 60, or 120 mm without fluid replacement or 120 mm with fluid replacement. Immediately following the assigned submaximal exercise period, the participant completed a graded exercise test to voluntary exhaustion. An executive processing test and a short-term memory test were performed prior to and immediately following exercise. Choice-response times during the executive processing test decreased following exercise, regardless of the level of dehydration. Choice-response errors increased following exercise, but only on trials requiring set shifting. Short-term memory performance improved following exercise, regardless of the level of dehydration. Changes in cognitive performance following exercise are hypothesized to be related to metabolic arousal following strenuous physical activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]