Oral carbohydrate sensing enhances prefrontal cortex oxygenation, reduces perceived exertion, and improves high-intensity cycling performance: A randomized crossover trial
Fig 2
Schematic overview of the experimental protocol.
Resting-state fNIRS recordings and Stroop tasks (3 min each) were performed to assess DLPFC oxygenation before intervention, immediately after intervention (CHO-MR, MUS, or PLA), and following completion of the 4-km cycling time trial. Blood lactate concentration, heart rate, and perceived exertion were recorded at predefined intervals. Abbreviations: CHO-MR, carbohydrate mouth rinsing; DLPFC, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex; fNIRS, functional near-infrared spectroscopy; HR, heart rate; MUS, music listening; PLA, placebo mouth rinse; [La⁻], blood lactate concentration; RPE, rating of perceived exertion; TT, time trial.