Focuses on the Pentagon's interest in whether the human brain can
be made more sophisticated. Experts' conclusion that four food components
might help combat-addled brains; Tyrosine's reversal of temporary memory
impairment caused by numbing cold or low oxygen; Carbohydrates'
improvement of mood and mental performance; Choline's provision of the
raw materials for acetylcholine production; Caffeine's ability to keep
soldiers alert on the battlefield.
By
PT Staff, published on November 01, 1994
Alertness-Enhancers
The Pentagon has never hesitated to upgrade its potent arsenal. But
recently it wondered whether a key defense system particularly prone to
breakdowns--the human brain--can be souped up as well. What good is
sophisticated weaponry, after all, if the soldiers using it are too
battle weary to think clearly?
The army asked a panel of scientists if spiking mess hall grub and
emergency rations with certain nutrients would enhance the mental (and
physical) performance of soldiers fighting under severe stress.
The committee, alas, uncovered no miracle brain foods. But the
experts concluded that four food components might help combat-addled
brains.
Tyrosine can reverse temporary memory impairment caused by numbling
cold or low oxygen levels. In one study, soldiers who spent all day
working in near-zero temperatures performed better on memory tests after
receiving a hefty dose of the amino acid. Tyrosine might also reduce
anxiety and increase vigilance.
Why? Our bodies convert tyrosine to several neurotransmitters,
including dopamine and norepinephrine. Some scientists think severe
stress might deplete our tyrosine supply, temporarily crippling the
brain's communication system.
While carbohydrates are best known as an energy source, they may
also improve mood and mental performance. Glucose, for example, seems to
aid memory during extreme stress.
Choline, a B vitamin, provides the raw material for acetylcholine
production. This neurotransmitter plays a crucial role in memory. In
mouse brain cells, moreover, choline seems to increase the number of
dendritic spines, the neuron's message receptors.
Caffeine, the pick-me-up of choice in offices and homes, can also
keep soldiers alert on the battlefield, where restful sleep is a scarce
commodity.
Should fire fighters, emergency room doctors, and other heavily
stressed civilians stock their pantry with foods rich in these
components? Committee chair Robert O. Nesheim, Ph.D., recommends caffeine
and carbohydrates but says that even the military should wait before
ladling out tyrosine stew or dispensing choline bars.
"There needs to be more work done on levels and safety," he says of
tyrosine. "If you overload on one amino acid, you might overwhelm the
system and get an effect that you're really not looking for."
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