Targeted Assessment of Cognition and Tactical-performance With Ingested Ketones

Targeted Assessment of Cognition and Tactical-performance With Ingested Ketones

The goal of this study is to determine whether consuming a commercially available exogenous ketone supplement (KetoneIQ®) affects cognition, specifically marksmanship, under physical stress (i.e., exhaustive exercise).

The main questions we seek to answer are:

• Does the supplement save cognitive performance under stress compared to a placebo?
• Does the supplement improve marksmanship under stress compared to a placebo?

In this study, 20 active SWAT team members will be randomized into two groups: Exogenous Ketone Supplement (EKS) and Placebo (PLA).

Participants will complete the trial in a crossover manner (meaning each participant will complete both EKS and PLA conditions)

Our primary outcome of interest is changes in cognitive performance following an exhaustive exercise bout. Secondary outcomes include: changes in marksmanship accuracy and speed, and changes in select biomarkers (catecholamines, cortisol, and BDNF).

Although ketone supplements are marketed for energy and cognitive performance, little is known about how they affect biological markers during stressful environments. Findings from this study may help inform safe, evidence-based use of such supplements among tactical athletes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Active Member of an accredited Law Enforcement Special Weapons and Tactics Team (SWAT)
• Health and capable of meeting testing requirements

Exclusion Criteria:

• Following a low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet
• Self-reported Pregnancy
• Allergy to testing materials
• Currently using exogenous ketone supplements within one week of testing