Effects of Seaweed Extract on Mental Performance Following a High-carbohydrate Meal

Acute Post-prandial Cognitive Effects Following Brown Seaweed Extract

The current study will explore the impact of seaweed extract on cognitive function following a high-carbohydrate meal at a number of time-points post-consumption.

The current randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel groups study will examine the impact of a brown seaweed extract (InSea2) on cognitive function post-prandially in 60 healthy non-elderly adults who self-report post-meal drowsiness. Computerised measures of episodic memory, attention and subjective state will be completed at baseline and for 3 hours following lunch with either seaweed or placebo consumed 30 minutes prior to a carbohydrate-rich meal.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Report post-meal drowsiness

Exclusion Criteria:

Below 18 or above 65 years old at the time of giving consent

• Do not report post-meal drowsiness
• Any pre-existing medical condition/illness
• History of/current head trauma
• History of intestinal tract surgery
• History of/current diagnosis of drug/alcohol abuse
• Currently taking prescription medications (excluding the contraceptive pill)
• Habitual use of dietary/herbal supplements
• Learning difficulties, ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), dyslexia
• Frequent migraines that require medication more than once/month.
• Visual impairment that cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses
• Smoking
• Excessive use of caffeine (>500mg per day) from all dietary sources
• Not a native English speaker
• Food intolerances/sensitivities, including seafood/fish allergy
• Pregnancy, seeking to become pregnant, or current lactation
• BMI <18.5 or >30 kg/m2
• Any health condition that would prevent fulfilment of the study requirements
• Inability to complete all of the study assessments