This study investigates the cognitive effects of Ārepa, a blackcurrant-based drink, under simulated high-altitude conditions (4,500m normobaric hypoxia for \~180 minutes). Using a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled crossover design, participants will consume either the nootropic blackcurrant-based drink or a taste-matched placebo. Cognitive testing (\~80 minutes) includes Trail-making, Stroop, N-back, Serial 7s/3s, and RVIP tasks. Physiological measures (heart rate, SpO₂, blood) and biomarkers (MAO-B, BDNF, hsCRP, S100B, Prolactin, C3G, Sarmentosin) will be assessed. Scales will evaluate mood, wellbeing, and perceived effects. The aim is to determine if the nootropic drink can support cognitive function in hypoxic environments.
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Executive Function (Trail Making Task)
Timeframe: Baseline (sea level, pre-supplementation), approximately 1 hour (±10 minutes) after exposure, and 2 hours (±10 minutes) after exposure.
Working Memory (N-back)
Timeframe: Baseline (sea level, pre-supplementation), approximately 1 hour (±10 minutes) after exposure, and 2 hours (±10 minutes) after exposure.
Attention (RVIP) as part of the Cognitive Demand Battery
Timeframe: Baseline (sea level, pre-supplementation), and 6 repeated assessments during the cognitive demand battery conducted between 1 hr 20 min and 2 hr 20 min after onset of acute high-altitude exposure.
Executive Function (Stroop, colour word task)
Timeframe: Baseline (sea level, pre-supplementation), approximately 1 hour (±10 minutes) after exposure, and 2 hours (±10 minutes) after exposure.
Working Memory (Serial 7s)
Timeframe: Baseline (sea level, pre-supplementation), and 6 repeated assessments during the cognitive demand battery conducted between 1 hr 20 min and 2 hr 20 min after onset of acute high-altitude exposure.
Working Memory (Serial 3s)
Timeframe: Baseline (sea level, pre-supplementation), and 6 repeated assessments during the cognitive demand battery conducted between 1 hr 20 min and 2 hr 20 min after onset of acute high-altitude exposure.