Isomaltulose in Stimulant Beverages Reduces Glycaemic Load Without Cognitive Trade-Off

A randomised controlled trial has demonstrated that replacing sucrose with isomaltulose in caffeinated stimulant beverages significantly attenuates postprandial glycaemic and insulinaemic responses while preserving the cognitive benefits typically associated with energy drink consumption. Conducted across 30 healthy adults aged 21-44, the study measured plasma glucose and insulin at 30 minutes post-ingestion and assessed neurocognitive function at 45 minutes using a computerised battery. Results showed that circulating glucose following isomaltulose ingestion (6.3 mmol·L⁻¹) was meaningfully lower than that of the sucrose condition (7.3 mmol·L⁻¹), with insulin also rising significantly less a mean difference of 8.5 µU·mL⁻¹ (p = 0.005). Critically, non-inferiority was established between isomaltulose and sucrose on the composite neurocognitive index score, suggesting no compromise in cognitive performance despite the lower glycaemic stimulus. The authors note, however, that the absence of a significant cognitive difference between the sucrose and placebo conditions limits broader interpretation of the carbohydrate-cognition relationship. The findings carry practical implications for functional beverage formulators seeking to develop cleaner metabolic profiles in caffeinated products without sacrificing the focus and alertness outcomes that drive consumer uptake.

Source : https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/18/7/1163