The influence of sugar on the neuronal, endocrine and cardiovascular response to stress – an experimental study with near-infrared spectroscopy
This project investigates the modulating role of blood glucose and insulin on the stress response and is funded by the Messmer Foundation, who featured the study in a short video (in German, see below).
The acute stress response has a wide range of metabolic consequences that increase net energy availability to support survival. At the same time, glucose consumption enhances the cortisol stress response, suggesting a regulatory dependence on energy availability. The mechanisms underlying this amplification and the potential behavioural consequences remain poorly understood. In the current project, we investigate the effect of glucose and insulin on stress and risk taking. Healthy, fasted adults are invited to the laboratory. After a venous blood sample and an acclimatisation period, they consume either a glucose drink or water. Thirty minutes later, they are exposed to acute stress and perform the Balloon Analogue Risk Task (BART). Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and an electrocardiogram (ECG) are recorded throughout the session and salivary samples and capillary and venous blood samples are collected to determine glucose, cortisol and insulin.
Data collection is ongoing and a preregistration of the project has been published. Three Bachelor’s and one Master’s student are currently involved in this project. We stay tuned for the final results!