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Energy

LONG-TERM OBJECTIVE

The goal of the Committee on Energy is to facilitate the understanding of the concept of "mental energy" by developing a science-based definition, exploring the factors that affect it, and examining the relative contribution of dietary factors for achieving optimal energy.

CURRENT ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS

Numerous foods, snacks, and beverages have been marketed for mental energy enhancement in the recent past. However, there was not a consistent, science-based definition of mental energy, clear identification of dietary factors that affect it, or the relative sensitivity of tools to measure those effects. These elements are necessary to conduct quality research and to substantiate mental energy claims. This ongoing initiative has lead to the generation of a three-pronged definition of mental energy—including cognition, mood, and motivation—each influenced by nutrition, genetics, sleep, and other factors. The resulting comprehensive review of over 250 journal articles was reported in a featured workshop titled “State of the Science of Diet and Mental Energy” at Experimental Biology 2010 and in a December 2010 publication.

PRESENTATIONS

Abstracts from the 24 April 2010 Experimental Biology workshop "The State of the Science on Diet and Mental Energy" are available here.

PUBLICATIONS

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

The Coca-Cola Company
Dr Pepper Snapple Group, Incorporated
The Hershey Company
Kellogg Company
Kraft Foods, Incorporated
Mars, Incorporated
National Starch Food Innovation
Red Bull GmbH

SCIENTIFIC ADVISOR

Patrick O’Connor, PhD
University of Georgia

STAFF CONTACT

Sharon Weiss, MS, CAE
Deputy Executive Director
ILSI North America
1156 15th Street, NW
Suite 200
Washington, DC 20005
Tel: 202.659.0074 (ext. 119)
Fax: 202.659.3859
 
Download the Committee on Energy fact sheet here.
Energy