The Immediate Effects of High Carbohydrate and Caffeinated Drinks on Speed, Coordination, and Cognitive Function in Professional Futsal Players

Abstract

Background:  Researchers believe the beneficiary role of some supplements in improving futsal player's performance, since their performance is disturbed by lactate accumulation. Objectives:  In the present study, we aimed to investigate the acute effects of high-carbohydrate and high-caffeine drinks on the motor performance (speed and coordination) and cognitive function of futsal players. Methods:  The study utilized a quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest control group. The study involved 40 participants who were randomly assigned to one of four groups: (1) carbohydrate supplementation (N = 10), (2) caffeine supplementation (N = 10), (3) carbohydrate and caffeine supplementation (N = 10), and (4) control group (placebo). The subjects were given two different sports drinks, one containing carbohydrates and caffeine, each at a dose of 6 mL per kilogram of body weight, while the control group received a placebo. To measure speed, a 36-m sprint test was used, while coordination was assessed using a dribble and shoot test. Cognitive performance was measured using a modified version of the continuous performance test (CPT) developed specifically for use with futsal players. Results:  The study found that carbohydrate intake had a significant positive effect on reaction time and coordination (P < 0.05). Caffeine intake was also associated with a significant improvement in cognitive performance (P < 0.05), but no significant effect was observed on speed and coordination (P > 0.05). Furthermore, the group that received both carbohydrate and caffeine supplements showed improvements in speed, coordination, and cognitive performance (P < 0.05). Conclusions:  It is suggested that taking a supplement containing a combination of carbohydrates and caffeine for 5 days prior to performance may lead to improved results in speed and coordination tests.