In summary , GI breakfasts do not affect cognitive domains in children and adolescents
This systematic review and meta- analysis aims to compare the effect of High-Glycemic Index ( GI ) versus Low-GI breakfasts on cognitive functions , including memory and attention , of children and adolescents .
Glycaemic index and glycaemic load of breakfast predict cognitive function and mood in school children: a randomised controlled trial.
The macronutrient composition of a breakfast that could facilitate performance after an overnight fast remains unclear . As glucose is the brain 's major energy source , the interest is in investigating meals differing in their blood glucose-raising potential . Findings vary due to unaccounted differences in glucoregulation , arousal and cortisol secretion . We investigated the effects of meals differing in glycaemic index ( GI ) and glycaemic load ( GL ) on cognition and mood in school children . A total of seventy-four school children were matched and r and omly allocated either to the  high-GL or low-GL  group . Within each GL group , children received high-GI and low-GI breakfasts .  Cognitive function ( CF ) and mood were measured 95 - 140 min after breakfast . Blood glucose and salivary cortisol were measured at baseline , before and after the CF tests . Repeated- measures ANOVA was used to identify differences in CF , mood , glucose and cortisol levels between the breakfasts . Low-GI meals predicted feeling more alert and happy , and less nervous and thirsty ( P < 0·05 for each ) ; high-GL meals predicted feeling more confident , and less sluggish , hungry and thirsty ( P < 0·05 for each ) . High-GL ( P < 0·001 ) and high-GI ( P = 0·05 ) meals increased glucose levels 90 min after breakfast , and high-GI meals increased cortisol levels ( P < 0·01 ) . When baseline mood , glucose and cortisol levels were considered , low-GI meals predicted better declarative-verbal memory ( P = 0·03 ) , and high-GI meals better vigilance ( P < 0·03 ) ; observed GI effects were valid across GL groups . GI effects on cognition appear to be domain specific . On balance , it would appear that the low-GI high-GL breakfast may help to improve learning , and of potential value in informing government education policies relating to dietary recommendations and implementation concerning breakfast
In summary , GI breakfasts do not affect cognitive domains in children and adolescents
This systematic review and meta- analysis aims to compare the effect of High-Glycemic Index ( GI ) versus Low-GI breakfasts on cognitive functions , including memory and attention , of children and adolescents .