Khaberni - A recent study revealed a natural drink that can help increase focus and alertness for hours while sitting at a desk, serving as a safe alternative to coffee or energy drinks.
Researchers from Tsukuba University in Japan conducted an experiment involving 14 amateur virtual soccer players over three hours (they participated in a football simulation game on computers or simulators).
In one session, participants drank plain water, and in the other, they drank sparkling water. The researchers found that sparkling water was better for maintaining concentration and reducing fatigue, as well as increasing the enjoyment of playing virtual games.
Participants drank water at regular intervals, totaling 500 ml, whether plain or chilled sparkling water to 4 degrees Celsius. Their feelings of fatigue and enjoyment were measured, along with heart rate and pupil diameter as indicators of fatigue.
The team concluded that sparkling water reduces the feeling of fatigue, enhances enjoyment, and maintains mental performance compared to plain water.
The study showed that carbon dioxide in sparkling water stimulates sensory receptors in the mouth called "transient receptor potential" (TRP), which activates the brain and improves certain cognitive tasks. Participants also made fewer errors during games when drinking sparkling water, indicating better control over task performance.
Despite these results, the study did not directly compare sparkling water with coffee or energy drinks. The researchers noted that these beverages contain caffeine and sugar that temporarily raise concentration but excessive use can lead to health problems and addiction. In contrast, no health risks associated with caffeine and sugar-free sparkling water are recorded, making it a safer and more sustainable option.
Experts also confirmed the reason for the tingling sensation on the tongue when drinking sparkling water, which is due to the reaction of carbon dioxide with enzymes in the acidic taste buds, not because of bursting bubbles as previously thought.
Dr. Nicholas Riba, the study's author from the National Institutes of Health in the United States, explained: "The distinctive sensation of carbonated beverages arises from the activation of acidic taste buds and sending signals to the brain."
