For those in need of a quick pick-me-up, protein-laden egg whites can provide more of an energy boost than a sugary snack, according to a new study published in the journal Neuron.
While sugar may provide a quick rush, the glucose can actually inhibit certain neurons in the brain – known as orexin/hypocretin neurons – which are responsible for regulating wakefulness and energy balance in the body.
Protein, like that found in egg whites, can actually stimulate and activate the orexin/hypocretin neurons and even counteract the inhibiting action from glucose, researchers from the University of Cambridge have discovered.
According to lead researcher Dr. Denis Burdakov, the orexin/hypocretin system is activated not only by the caloric content of food, but also the type of food eaten, "suggesting that the brain contains not only energy-sensing cells, but also cells that can measure dietary balance," he concluded.
"Interestingly, although behavioral effects are beyond the scope of our study, this cellular model is consistent with reports that when compared with sugar-rich meals, protein-rich meals are more effective at promoting wakefulness and arousal."