THE EFFECT OF A CARBOHYDRATE-RICH BEVERAGE ON MOOD, APPETITE, AND COGNITIVE FUNCTION IN WOMEN WITH PREMENSTRUAL-SYNDROME

Objective: To test the efficacy of a specially-formulated, carbohydrat e-rich beverage (one known to increase the serum ratio of tryptophan t o other large neutral amino acids) on the mood, cognitive, and appetit ive disturbances of premenstrual syndrome (FMS). Methods: Twenty-four women with confirmed PMS were enrolled in a double-blind, crossover st udy to test the efficacy of the specially-formulated beverage compared with two other isocaloric products on PMS symptoms. The study was con ducted over three menstrual cycles preceded by a 1-month placebo run-i n. Patients were tested at home or work using an interactive computer- telephone system. Standardized measurements of mood, cognitive perform ance, and food cravings were made before and 30, 90, and 180 minutes a fter consumption of active and placebo beverages during the late lutea l phase of the menstrual cycle. Results: The experimental carbohydrate intervention significantly decreased self-reported depression, anger, confusion, and carbohydrate craving 90-180 minutes after intake. Memo ry word recognition was also improved significantly compared with scor es obtained during the placebo run-in month (P < .05). The isocaloric placebo interventions had no significant effect on any of these measur es. Conclusion: The results suggest that the psychological and appetit ive symptoms of PMS can be relieved after consuming a specially-formul ated, carbohydrate-rich beverage known to increase serum tryptophan le vels.