Cognitive Effects of Xylitol 

Overview

This study consists of a two-week intervention with two 30-minute appointments and four hour-long appointments that include 3 NeuroTracker sessions each. The subjects that meet the inclusion criteria (generally healthy male or female 18-30 year olds, BMI 18.5-30, a self-reported best-corrected vision of 20/40 or better in each eye, and meet the inclusion criteria on the preliminary participant questionnaire). Subjects are excluded from the study if they are allergic to xylitol, sugar alcohols, glucose, and citrus; report conditions of vertigo, gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, hypoglycemia or have a history of concussions. Any visual impairments including but not limited to diabetic retinopathy, strabismus, retinitis pigmentosa, optic neuropathy, retinal vascular occlusions, color blindness, hyperlipidemia, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and autoimmune disorders related to visual health. Mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease. Taking neuroactive medications, such as Ritalin, Adderall, Vyvanse, antidepressants, etc. Participants are expected to take a xylitol or placebo drink once a day on an empty stomach for 14 days. They will also complete daily food and sleep logs. On days 0, 1, 4, 7, and 14, they will come into Gilchrist 347 to complete 3 NeuroTracker sessions as well as fill out a daily data form and symptom form.