Compositions containing γ-aminobutyric acid

Abstract

This invention provides a composition containing γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) for inducing a state of flow (psychological state) in an individual. The composition of this invention can induce a state of flow (psychological state) when an individual performs a specific task or action.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to compositions containing γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and particularly to GABA-containing compositions for inducing flow (zone) state. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA, 4-aminobutyric acid), an amino acid widely distributed in nature and whose flavor is not impaired even when added to food, has attracted much attention. GABA is known to be an inhibitory neurotransmitter abundant in the mammalian central nervous system. It can inhibit the excessive secretion of excitatory neurotransmitters, thereby calming nerve excitation and exerting a relaxing and anti-stress effect. Furthermore, it is known to have a wide range of physiological activities, including lowering blood pressure, lowering cholesterol, and inhibiting immune system decline. Since GABA is also found in vegetables, grains, and the human body, it is easily added to food; currently, chocolates and various supplements containing GABA are available on the market. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Technical problems to be solved The inventors of this invention have discovered that GABA can induce a state of flow (psychological state) in the subject.

[0004] Problem-solving methods Therefore, based on the main points of the invention, the following invention is provided.

[0005] (Project 1) A composition for inducing a state of flow (psychological state) in an object, wherein the composition contains γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

[0006] (Project 2) The composition according to the above-mentioned project is characterized in that the composition is ingested before performing the task.

[0007] (Project 3) The composition according to any one of the above items, wherein the flow state is defined at least by the skewness of somatosensory time.

[0008] (Project 4) The composition according to any one of the above items, wherein the flow state includes a reduction in the duration of tactile sensation.

[0009] (Project 5) The composition according to any one of the above items, wherein the subject matter includes multitasking.

[0010] (Project 6) The composition according to any one of the above items, wherein the subject matter includes e-sports, VDT assignments, digital work, and games.

[0011] (Project 7) The composition according to any one of the above items, wherein the game includes TV games, PC games and mobile terminal games.

[0012] (Project 8) The composition according to any one of the above items is ingested at least about 2 hours before or immediately before the performance of the task.

[0013] (Project 9) The composition according to any one of the above items, wherein the content of γ-aminobutyric acid is from about 10 mg to about 1000 mg.

[0014] (Project 10) The composition according to any one of the above items, wherein the intake of the γ-aminobutyric acid is from about 10 mg to about 1000 mg per day.

[0015] (Project 11) The composition according to any one of the above items is for oral administration.

[0016] (Project 12) The composition according to any one of the above items is a beverage, food, supplement, food additive, quasi-medicine or pharmaceutical.

[0017] (Project 13) The composition according to any one of the above items is in the form of liquid, powder, tablet or capsule.

[0018] (Project 14) The composition according to any one of the above items is used to induce a feeling of excitement.

[0019] (Project 15) The composition according to any one of the above items is used to induce positive emotions.

[0020] (Project 16) The composition according to any one of the above items is used to reduce the decrease in vitality and energy.

[0021] (Project 17) The composition according to any one of the above items is used to relieve mental stress and / or fatigue.

[0022] (Project A1) A method for inducing a flow state in a subject, comprising the step of administering to the subject a composition containing γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

[0023] (Project A2) The method according to the above-mentioned project is characterized in that the composition is given to the object before the object performs the task.

[0024] (Project A3) According to any one of the methods described above, the flow state is defined at least by the skewness of perceived time.

[0025] (Project A4) The method according to any one of the above items, wherein the flow state includes a reduction in the duration of tactile sensation.

[0026] (Project A5) The method according to any one of the above items, wherein the subject includes multiple tasks.

[0027] (Project A6) The method according to any one of the above items, wherein the subject includes e-sports, VDT assignments, digital assignments, and games.

[0028] (Project A7) The method according to any one of the above items, wherein the game includes TV games, PC games and mobile terminal games.

[0029] (Project A8) According to the method of any one of the above items, the composition is administered at least about 2 hours before the subject performs the task and up to just before the task is performed.

[0030] (Project A9) According to any one of the methods described above, the content of the γ-aminobutyric acid is from about 10 mg to about 1000 mg.

[0031] (Project A10) According to any one of the methods described above, the dosage of the γ-aminobutyric acid is about 10 mg to about 1000 mg per day.

[0032] (Project A11) The method according to any one of the above items is administered orally.

[0033] (Project A12) The method according to any one of the above items, wherein the composition is a beverage, food, supplement, food additive, quasi-pharmaceutical or pharmaceutical.

[0034] (Project A13) The method according to any one of the above items, wherein the composition is in the form of a liquid, powder, tablet or capsule.

[0035] (Project A14) The method according to any one of the above items is used to induce an exciting emotion.

[0036] (Project A15) The method according to any one of the above items is used to induce positive emotions.

[0037] (Project A16) The method according to any one of the above items is used to mitigate the decrease in vitality and energy.

[0038] (Project A17) The method according to any one of the above items is used to relieve mental stress and / or fatigue.

[0039] (Project B1) A composition for inducing a state of flow in an object, for inducing excited emotions, for inducing positive emotions, for reducing a decrease in vitality and energy, and / or for relieving mental stress and / or fatigue, wherein the composition contains γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

[0040] (Project B2) The composition described in the above-mentioned project is used to induce a state of flow (psychological state) in an object.

[0041] (Project B3) The composition according to any one of the above items is used to induce excitement in an object.

[0042] (Project B4) The composition according to any one of the above items is used to induce positive emotions in an object.

[0043] (Project B5) The composition according to any one of the above items is used to reduce the decrease in the vitality and energy of an object.

[0044] (Project B6) The composition according to any one of the above items is used to relieve the mental stress and / or fatigue of the subject.

[0045] In this disclosure, it is intended that one or more of the features described above may be provided in further combinations beyond those explicitly shown. It should be noted that those skilled in the art will recognize further embodiments and advantages of this disclosure upon reading and understanding the following detailed description.

[0046] It should be noted that, by referring to the following description of the embodiments of the invention and the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can clearly understand the features and significant effects of this disclosure in addition to those described above.

[0047] Invention Effects According to the present invention, by ingesting a GABA-containing composition, a flow state can be induced in the body, thus enabling efficient performance of tasks requiring cognitive and thinking abilities, and also having high utilization value in daily life.

[0048] Furthermore, the composition of the present invention can induce a state of flow in the subject, thereby improving the subject's productivity and work efficiency, improving task quality, reducing stress and psychological burden, and / or obtaining a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment. Attached Figure Description

[0049] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the timing of the game experiment, the intake of the test beverage, and the implementation of the VAS questionnaire in one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a chart illustrating the results of a game trial and VAS questionnaire in one embodiment of the present invention. The game software used is "GHOST SQUAD™" (SEGA); Figure 3 This is a chart illustrating the results of a game trial and VAS questionnaire in one embodiment of the present invention. The game software used is "TIME CRISIS 4" (Bandai Namco Games). Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the timing of the game experiment and the intake of the test beverage in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a graph illustrating the results of a game experiment according to one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 illustrates the results of the skewed perceived time in one embodiment of the invention when a placebo, GABA, or caffeine is ingested. Figure 6A This is the result under conditions of GABA intake. Figure 6B This is the result of consuming caffeine; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the timeline of brainwave data measurement in one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 This is a graph illustrating the results of a game experiment according to one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 This illustrates the brainwave measurement results in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 This is the result of a paired t-test on the corresponding brainwave measurement values ​​in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11 This is a graph showing the difference between the SMR wave measured after GABA or placebo intake and the resting state in one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 This is a chart illustrating dart scores in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 13 This is a measurement result of the duration of a state of concentration / deep concentration, measured by a concentration force measuring glasses (JINS MEME) in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 14 The calculation test results are shown in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 15 This is a measurement result of the duration of a state of concentration / deep concentration, determined by a concentration force measuring glasses (JINS MEME) in one embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0050] The present disclosure will now be described while showing the preferred form. It should be understood that throughout this specification, unless otherwise specified, singular expressions also include the concept of their plural forms. Therefore, it should be understood that singular articles (e.g., "a," "an," "the," etc. in English), unless otherwise specified, also include the concept of their plural forms. Furthermore, it should be understood that the terminology used in this specification, unless otherwise specified, is used in the sense commonly understood in the art. Therefore, unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this specification have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains. In case of any conflict, this specification (including definitions) shall prevail.

[0051] The following appropriately explains the definitions of terms and / or basic technical content used in this specification.

[0052] In this specification, “about” means ±10% of the subsequent value.

[0053] In this specification, "flow state" refers to a state in which brainwaves in the mid-awake region are dominant, such as the state in which brainwaves generate SMR (Sensory Motor Rhythm) waves. In addition to SMR waves (12Hz–15Hz), brainwaves in the mid-awake region also include high alpha waves (10Hz–12Hz) and low beta waves (15Hz–18Hz). With the SMR wave representing a balance between relaxation and concentration as its peak, further relaxation and decreased arousal result in high alpha waves, while greater concentration and increased arousal result in low beta waves. It is known that the generation of SMR waves easily induces a feeling of flow or a state of euphoria (K. Ueda, Y. Imamura and T. Ibaraki, TechRxiv. Preprint, doi:10.36227 / techrxiv.14787879.v1 (2021).). Brain waves can be measured using well-known methods, such as fMRI, NIRS, invasive methods, MEG, EEG, and other brain wave measurement devices.

[0054] When entering a state of flow (or immersion), concentration is enhanced, and one can achieve a deeper level of focus than usual when performing specific actions or tasks. For more information on the state of flow (or immersion), please refer to JeLA journal Vol. 9 / 2009.5, "Applications of Flow Theory for Effective e-Learning." In this manual, flow and immersion are synonymous. Whether one is in a state of flow (or immersion) can be evaluated not only by EEG measurements but also by the deviation of perceived time. When a subject performs a specific action or task, if the time perceived by the subject is shorter than the actual time of the action or task, then the subject can be said to be in a state of flow (or immersion).

[0055] In this instruction manual, "skewness of perceived time" refers to a discrepancy between the perceived time and the actual elapsed time. For example, it means that when a subject performs a specific action or task, the perceived time is shorter than the actual time of the action or task. For instance, if the perceived time is approximately less than 99%, 98%, 97%, 96%, 95%, 94%, 93%, 92%, 91%, 90%, 89%, 88%, 87%, 86%, 85%, 84%, 83%, 82%, 81%, 80%, 75%, 70%, 65%, 60%, 55%, or 50% compared to the actual time, then a skewness of perceived time has occurred.

[0056] In this manual, "e-sports" is short for "Electronic Sports," which broadly refers to competitions conducted using electronic devices. In a narrower sense, "e-sports" refers to competitions that treat computer games or video games as sports. E-sports encompasses not only sports games but also shooting games, simulation games, fighting games, racing games, puzzle games, card games, and RPGs, but is not limited to these.

[0057] In this manual, "VDT operation" refers to an operation using a monitor, keyboard, or other VDT (Visual Display Terminals).

[0058] In this specification, "Digital Work" refers to work performed primarily using computers or the Internet. Specific examples of digital work include communication using tools such as email or chat software, data processing or database management, website or application development, online marketing, and digital content creation.

[0059] (Preferred Implementation) The preferred embodiments of this disclosure are described below. These embodiments are provided to better understand this disclosure, and the scope of this disclosure should not be limited to the following description. Therefore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that appropriate modifications can be made within the scope of this disclosure based on the description herein. Furthermore, the following embodiments of this disclosure can be used individually or in combination.

[0060] In one aspect of the invention, a composition containing γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) for inducing a state of flow (chemoattractive state) in a subject is provided.

[0061] Since γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an amino acid widely distributed in nature, such as in vegetables and grains, in one embodiment of the present invention, there are no particular restrictions on its source, as long as GABA can be used in food and beverages. For example, extracts or purified products from plants containing GABA can be used, or it can be prepared by fermentation of raw materials containing glutamic acid by adding glutamate decarboxylase or microorganisms containing such enzymes, such as lactic acid bacteria. GABA-containing products or commercially available GABA can also be used in the compositions of the present invention without impairing the effects of the compositions.

[0062] In one embodiment, the composition of the present invention, by being ingested by an object, can induce a state of flow (environmental state) in the object. The state of flow (environmental state) of the object can be induced when the object performs a specific action or task, which may be a task related to the object.

[0063] In one implementation, a research topic can be anything that requires at least a certain level of concentration from the subject, such as e-sports, VDT assignments, digital assignments, and games (TV games, PC games, and mobile games, etc.). A research topic can be a problem-solving process aimed at achieving a specific goal, not limited to topics given in environments such as schools or workplaces, but also including self-directed topics. Research topics are designed to promote personal growth or learning and generally include specific tasks or activities aimed at achieving a certain purpose.

[0064] In one implementation, the task can be a single task or a multi-task task. In one implementation, multi-task means that the object performs multiple jobs, actions, tasks, and / or assignments simultaneously. For example, in the case of VDT operations, the following jobs and actions can be cited as single-task and multi-task tasks, respectively.

[0065] <Single Task> • Typing games (simple repetitive data input) • Shooting PC games that only involve shooting targets (using only the left mouse button with one hand. Excluding games that use the keyboard to switch weapons, change viewpoints, move forward, backward, left, right, jump, crouch, or reload). Multitasking Shooting games While firing, tasks such as weapon switching, reloading, moving forward, backward, left, and right, switching viewpoints, and checking the map are performed simultaneously. Racing games Simultaneously, it allows for acceleration, braking, and lateral direction decisions.

[0066] Furthermore, in other embodiments, in the case of tasks other than VDT ​​operations, the following operations and actions can be cited as single-task and multi-task respectively.

[0067] <Single Task> Kraepelin test (repetitive simple addition), etc. Multitasking Driving a car: operating the steering wheel, turn signals, and foot controls; judging other vehicles / traffic signals / pedestrians, etc. • Piano playing: different movements of the left and right hands, footwork, etc.

[0068] Esports refers to the competitive activity of playing computer games and video games (PC, home consoles, mobile applications, VR, etc., not limited to the devices used). Esports also includes, for example, gamifying actual sports or creating new virtual sports games, operated by human players (in the case of a match, the opponent can be a computer simulation). Furthermore, virtual sports refer to computer-simulated sports competitions that virtually mimic real-world sports competitions under certain rules and algorithms, or newly created virtual sports competitions. This virtual sports consists of virtual players based on data mimicking real-world athletes, or virtual players based on user-generated data under certain rules, competing through computer simulation.

[0069] In one implementation, the type of game in esports is not particularly limited and can be any type of game. For example, it can be fighting games, sports games, shooting games, racing games, puzzle games, word games, card games, board games, role-playing games, or simulation games. Furthermore, esports can be either individual or team competitions. Additionally, it can be between humans as players or between humans and computers (such as AI or robots).

[0070] VDT (Visual Display Terminal) work refers to work performed using a monitor, keyboard, and other VDT devices. Digital work, on the other hand, refers to work primarily performed using a computer or the internet. Both VDT and digital work involve prolonged viewing of screens, which can lead to eye strain or stress. The composition of this invention, by inducing a flow state in the subject, can also reduce fatigue or stress during VDT or digital work.

[0071] In one embodiment, the game includes games played on any electronic device, such as TV games, PC games, and mobile games. The game type is not particularly limited; for example, it can be a fighting game, sports game, shooting game, racing game, puzzle game, word game, card game, board game, role-playing game, or simulation game. The composition of the present invention can induce a flow state when the subject is playing the game, thereby improving scores or achieving efficient progress.

[0072] In one embodiment, the composition of the present invention is taken in such a manner as to obtain the effects of the composition of the present invention before the subject performs the task. The composition of the present invention may be taken at least about 5 hours before the subject performs the task, up to about 1 minute before, or up to just before the task, as an upper limit (maximum time) for the time of intake, for example, at least about 1 hour, about 2 hours, about 3 hours, about 4 hours, about 5 hours, about 6 hours, or about 7 hours before the subject performs the task; as a lower limit (minimum time) for the time of intake, for example, at least about 50 minutes, about 45 minutes, about 40 minutes, about 35 minutes, about 30 minutes, about 25 minutes, about 20 minutes, about 15 minutes, about 10 minutes, about 5 minutes, about 4 minutes, about 3 minutes, about 2 minutes, about 1 minute before, or just before the task is performed. The time of intake can be any numerical range between these lower and upper limits. By taking the composition of the present invention before performing the task, a flow state can be induced when the subject performs the task. In one embodiment, the time before taking the composition of the present invention before performing the task can be appropriately set according to the type, content or difficulty of the task, the state or nature of the object, or the depth of the target flow state.

[0073] The compositions of this invention, when ingested by an object, can induce a state of flow (or fusion) within that object. The term "fusion" is commonly used in competitive or performance contexts; for example, when athletes enter a state of "fusion" during competition, it means they are highly focused, their behavior and consciousness are integrated, the boundaries between themselves and their surroundings become blurred, and they are in a state where they can perform at their highest level. By entering a state of fusion, athletes can achieve peak athletic performance without being affected by declining self-esteem or worries. The term "flow" is generally used in the context of creative or productive work; for example, when artists enter a state of "flow" during creative activities, it means they are in a state where they are maximizing their creative abilities. By entering a state of flow, artists can achieve peak artistic expression without being concerned about surrounding concerns or other external distractions. The main difference between fusion and flow is that fusion typically focuses on competitive or performance, while flow focuses on creative or productive work. However, both concepts represent a state of high concentration and self-completion, indicating a state where an individual can perform at their highest level. Therefore, both fusion and flow are psychological concepts describing a state of concentration and can be used differently depending on the type of object, but in this specification, unless otherwise stated, they are synonymous.

[0074] The state of flow or immersion can also be described as a state of heightened ability to perform a task based on one's own capabilities. That is, the state of flow or immersion differs from simply high concentration; it involves feeling joy while handling the task and sensing one's skills improving. Even with high concentration, whether this state constitutes flow or immersion varies depending on individual feelings and experiences, as well as the content and difficulty of the task being handled.

[0075] Unbound by theoretical constraints, by ingesting the composition of this invention, brain function can be affected via the afferent vagus nerve, regulating the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. This can thereby increase parasympathetic nerve activity, preventing excessive brain activity caused by prolonged concentration or tension when processing tasks. Furthermore, it is known that GABA intake can suppress the amount of beta waves; the composition of this invention regulates the balance between alpha and beta waves, creating a state where brain waves in the mid-awake regions, such as SMR waves, are dominant.

[0076] In one implementation, the state of flow can be evaluated at least by the bias of perceived time. When a subject performs a specific action or task, if the time perceived by the subject is longer or shorter than the actual time of the action or task, the subject can be defined as being in a state of flow. Bias of perceived time refers to a discrepancy between actual time and perceived time. For example, when people experience strong emotions such as tension or happiness, they may perceive time as passing too quickly or too slowly. This is not bound by theory because the way people perceive the passage of time is influenced by factors such as attention or thinking. When attention or thinking is heightened, people concentrate more and process more information, thus perceiving time as passing too quickly or too slowly. The composition of the present invention, by generating this bias of perceived time, can induce a state of flow in the subject, preferably one that induces a state of flow when the subject performs a specific task.

[0077] In one implementation, when the perceived time is shortened, one can be said to be in a state of flow (a state of mental relaxation). The shortening of perceived time means that even if the time elapses is the same, time seems to pass quickly.

[0078] In one embodiment of the present invention, the content of GABA in the composition of the present invention is not particularly limited as long as it is a concentration or weight sufficient to achieve the effect of the composition of the present invention according to the method of administration, etc. The content of GABA in the composition of the present invention is preferably from about 10 mg to about 1000 mg. As a lower limit of the content, it can be, for example, more than about 10 mg, more than about 30 mg, more than about 50 mg, more than about 70 mg, more than about 100 mg, more than about 150 mg, more than about 200 mg, more than about 300 mg, more than about 400 mg, more than about 500 mg, or more than about 700 mg. As an upper limit of the content, it can be, for example, less than about 1000 mg, less than about 800 mg, less than about 700 mg, less than about 600 mg, less than about 500 mg, less than about 400 mg, less than about 300 mg, less than about 200 mg, or less than about 100 mg. The content can be any numerical range between these lower and upper limits.

[0079] In one embodiment of the present invention, the composition of the present invention, depending on its form, may contain any additives or any components that can be used in a composition that can be ingested in vivo. Examples of such additives and components include vitamins such as vitamin E or vitamin C, minerals, nutrients, physiologically active ingredients such as flavorings, excipients, binders, emulsifiers, tensioning agents (isotonic agents), buffers, solubilizers, preservatives, stabilizers, antioxidants, colorants, coagulants, or coating agents, but are not limited to Yuci.

[0080] In one embodiment of the present invention, the composition of the present invention is not particularly limited in form as long as it contains GABA, such as a pharmaceutical composition, food and beverage (including specific health foods, nutritional functional foods, functional labeled foods and other functional foods, health supplements, health foods, supplements, etc.), food additives, quasi-pharmaceuticals or pharmaceuticals.

[0081] In one embodiment of the present invention, the composition of the present invention can be taken orally. When used as an oral dosage form, its form may include, for example, tablets (including coated tablets), capsules, powders, granules, powders, liquids, suspensions, emulsions, granules, powders, pills, pastes, ointments, capsules / tablets, gels, chewable tablets, sticks, etc. Furthermore, it can be adjusted to an easily compoundable form such as powder or granules and used as a raw material for other pharmaceuticals.

[0082] In one embodiment of the invention, the composition of the invention can be used for non-therapeutic purposes, or as a non-therapeutic method for inducing a state of flow in a subject by ingesting the composition of the invention. This method does not involve therapeutic or medical procedures, and its subject is not particularly limited, but is preferably a healthy person. By ingesting the composition of the present invention into such a healthy person, a state of flow can be induced. Furthermore, when used as a medicine or quasi-medicine, the effects of inducing a state of flow can also be claimed.

[0083] The compositions of the present invention can be used for therapeutic purposes; therefore, in other aspects of the invention, a method for inducing a flow state in a subject is provided, comprising the step of administering to the subject a composition containing γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

[0084] In one embodiment of the present invention, the daily or per-use intake of GABA contained in the composition of the present invention can be appropriately set according to the form of the composition, the method of intake, the purpose of use, and the age, weight, symptoms, etc. of the person taking the product. For example, from the viewpoint of making the effect of GABA contained in the composition of the present invention more significant, the daily intake of GABA contained in the composition of the present invention is preferably about 10 mg / day or more, more preferably about 25 mg / day or more, about 50 mg / day or more, about 60 mg / day or more, about 80 mg / day or more, about 100 mg / day or more, about 120 mg / day or more, about 150 mg / day or more, about 180 mg / day or more, about 200 mg / day or more, about 300 mg / day or more, about 400 mg / day or more, about 500 mg / day or more, about 800 mg / day or more, or about 1000 mg / day or more. There is no particular limitation on the upper limit of daily intake of GABA contained in the composition of the present invention, as long as it is within the range that can induce the flow state brought about by the composition of the present invention.

[0085] In one embodiment of the present invention, the frequency of application of the method of the present invention or the frequency of intake of the composition of the present invention may be once a day or taken in multiple times within the desired intake range. In addition, the intake period may also be appropriately set within the range that can exert the induction effect of the composition of the present invention on the flow state.

[0086] In one embodiment, the compositions of the present invention can be provided as compositions for inducing excited emotions in an object, independently of inducing a flow state in the object. By ingesting the compositions of the present invention, subjects can be induced to experience excited emotions, thereby improving scores or achieving more efficient processes when dealing with tasks.

[0087] In other embodiments, the compositions of the present invention can be provided independently of inducing a flow state in the subject, as compositions for inducing positive emotions in the subject. By ingesting the compositions of the present invention, subjects can be induced to have positive emotions, thereby improving scores or achieving more efficient processes when dealing with tasks.

[0088] In other embodiments, the compositions of the present invention can be provided independently of inducing a flow state in the subject, as compositions for reducing a decrease in a subject's energy and vitality. By ingesting the compositions of the present invention, the decrease in the subject's energy and vitality is reduced, thereby improving scores or achieving more efficient processes when dealing with tasks.

[0089] In other embodiments, the compositions of the present invention can be provided independently of inducing a flow state in the subject, as compositions for relieving mental stress and / or fatigue. By ingesting the compositions of the present invention, the subject's mental stress and / or fatigue are relieved, thereby improving scores or achieving more efficient processes when dealing with tasks.

[0090] In this specification, "or" is used when "at least one or more" of the items listed in the text can be used. The same applies to "or". In this specification, when "within a range" is explicitly stated as "two values", that range also includes the two values ​​themselves.

[0091] The scientific literature, patents, patent applications, and other references cited in this specification are referenced hereto in the same way as their individual specific descriptions.

[0092] For ease of understanding, preferred embodiments have been shown in the foregoing description of this disclosure. The following description is based on examples; however, the above description and the following examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments or examples specifically described in this specification, but is defined only by the claims.

[0093] Example (Example 1: Game Experiment 1) In this embodiment, the change in game score when GABA was ingested was confirmed.

[0094] Ten men and women aged 26–33 (Trial 1) and nineteen men and women aged 26–33 (Trial 2) were enrolled as participants to evaluate their game performance after consuming the test beverage. The trial was a crossover experiment.

[0095] The beverages tested are as follows.

[0096] ·GABA water (PharmaGABA 200mg / 350mL) Red Bull (registered trademark) (Arginine 300mg, Caffeine 100mg / 250mL) Water (250mL).

[0097] As a game, the first experiment used the game console: Wii (registered trademark) (Nintendo), and the game software: GHOSTSQUAD™ (SEGA); the second experiment used the game console: PlayStation 3 (registered trademark) (Sony Computer Entertainment), and the game software: TIME CRISIS 4 (Bandai Namco Games).

[0098] The VAS survey was conducted using a questionnaire to assess participants' sensory experiences related to "concentration, excitement, and active thinking." Following the method of Freyd M. et al., the left end of a 100mm line segment was designated as "no sensation at all (=0mm)," and the right end as "strongest sensation so far (=100mm)." The distance between the left end and any point on the line segment marked with an "X" by the participant was measured and quantified. The sensory experiences throughout the experiment were evaluated by taking the difference between the value immediately after consuming the test beverage and the value at the end of the experiment.

[0099] In addition, the timing of the participants' beverage intake, game implementation, and VAS questionnaire were also considered. Figure 1 As shown.

[0100] The results of the first experiment were as follows: Figure 2 As shown. By Figure 2 It was found that in the first experiment, compared with the group that consumed water and the group that consumed energy drinks (Red Bull), the group that consumed GABA showed a tendency to improve game scores and reduce the number of false hits. In addition, the questionnaire results showed that the group that consumed GABA was in an excited state during the game and their mood became more positive.

[0101] The results of the second experiment are as follows Figure 3 As shown. By Figure 3 It was found that in the second experiment, compared with the water group and the energy drink (Red Bull) group, the GABA-consuming group also showed a tendency to improve game scores and hit rates. Furthermore, the number of missions successfully completed in the game increased in the GABA-consuming group. In addition, the questionnaire results showed that the GABA-consuming group experienced heightened excitement and a more positive mood during the game.

[0102] In the first and second trials, GABA intake increased subjective "excitement" scores. This increase in "excitement" scores may initially seem to contradict previously reported mechanisms of GABA intake leading to parasympathetic hyperactivity. However, previous reports have shown that GABA intake reduced stress / fatigue in subjects subjected to simple calculation problems using tests such as the Kreperin test. In this trial, a game involving different information presented every second and requiring different actions to be performed every second was used for evaluation. Therefore, under such continuous information processing conditions, a moderate state of excitement is considered important. That is, GABA intake is believed to have created a balanced state between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, resulting in increased "excitement" scores. Therefore, the results of this trial do not contradict existing GABA effects.

[0103] (Example 2: Game Experiment 2) In this embodiment, the change in concentration time was confirmed when GABA was ingested.

[0104] Seven participants who simultaneously met the criteria of "increased concentration during gameplay" and "possible to increase concentration after consuming the test beverage" were selected as subjects. Their concentration during gameplay was evaluated before and after consuming the test beverage. The trial was designed as a single-blind crossover trial with a washout period of more than one day.

[0105] The tested beverages are as follows: Placebo beverage: 250mL of 0.6% sugar solution • GABA beverage: 250mL of 0.6% sugar water containing 100mg of GABA.

[0106] As a game, a mobile game (Tetris) was used.

[0107] In addition, the timing of the intake of the tested beverages and the implementation of the game, such as Figure 4 As shown.

[0108] Concentration was measured using the JINS MEME ES. The JINS MEME ES captures blinks and gaze movements using ocular potentials to calculate concentration and zone.

[0109] The results are as follows Figure 5 As shown. By Figure 5 It was found that when 100 mg of GABA was ingested, the proportion of total concentration time and the proportion of immersion were significantly increased compared to the placebo group. This clearly demonstrates that GABA increases concentration and immersion.

[0110] (Example 3: Evaluation of time interval skew) In this embodiment, it was confirmed whether the skewness of the time interval (a characteristic of the flow state) was caused by GABA uptake.

[0111] Approximately 15 minutes after ingesting a placebo, GABA, or caffeine, participants engaged in a typing game for a total of 5 minutes, during which their perceived time was assessed using a VAS questionnaire. Specifically, the first typing game ended after approximately 2 minutes (first half of the trial), and scores were recorded immediately afterward. The second typing game (second half of the trial) then began immediately (with an interval of approximately 10 seconds). Following this, a questionnaire was administered to assess how the perceived time compared to the actual 5 minutes.

[0112] In addition, the duration of focused / deeply focused states was measured using JINS MEME glasses. The number of correct inputs, average number of characters typed, and number of incorrect inputs in the typing game were recorded.

[0113] The results are as follows Figure 6A and 6B As shown in the figure, the concentration time increased compared to the placebo group. Furthermore, it was found that when GABA was ingested, the perceived somatic time was shorter than the actual time. This clearly demonstrates that GABA induces a bias in perceived somatic time, particularly a shortening of perceived somatic time.

[0114] (Example 4: Evaluation of the impact of GABA uptake on brainwave data) In this embodiment, the effect of GABA uptake on brainwave data was evaluated, confirming the dominance of GABA uptake in inducing SMR waves.

[0115] (Experiment content) Brainwave Measurement Experiment This study evaluated whether GABA intake during esports activities affected brainwave data. The experimental design is as follows. Brainwave measurements were performed using the analysis algorithm of brainwave analysis applications (Motor Sensitivity, KANSEI) provided by Little Software.

[0116] <Experimental Design> • Experimental subjects: 9 (1 excluded, 8 analyzed) • Equipment used: Simple EEG meter • Sample: GABA (200mg) or placebo (dextrin) + 30ml water • Measurement items: brainwaves, MPG (game-related) score • Double-blind crossover trial (washout period: 1 week).

[0117] MPG (Mobalytics Proving Ground) is a game that measures the basic skills of esports players. It can be played at https: / / pg.mobalytics.gg / . This game simultaneously performs three tasks: Mechanics, BG Procurement, and Map Assessment. It displays the score for each task and a combined score calculated from all three.

[0118] Details of the game score obtained from MPG are as follows. Only the large items shown with ※ are used in the following analysis.

[0119] (1) Total score (n)※ (2) Mechanical ability (the ability to respond to perceptual stimuli by operating a mouse or keyboard) (n)※ Number of targets hit (n) Accuracy (%) Suitability (%) Neglected target (n) Total points lost (n) The center is hit (n) Center hit (n) in total hit The score (n) of hitting the center. Hit in the middle (n) Mid-range hit (n) in a full hit The score (n) from the center hit. Edge hit (n) Edge hits in full hit (n) The score (n) of edge hits. Average click latency (s) Actions per minute (n) The missing center point (n) Number of targets hit (n) (3) Background processing capability (n)※ Number of targets hit (n) Accuracy (%) Suitability (%) Neglected targets (n) (4) Map recognition (perception) ability (n)※ Score (n) The time it was stuck (s) Points lost (n) Average time (s) for each obstacle.

[0120] <Experimental Subjects> The study included nine healthy male university students (age: 20.10±1.10 years, height: 178.71±6.96 cm, weight: 60.9±12.90 kg, mean ± standard deviation) who had not received drug treatment for any disease and had no symptoms of memory impairment. It should be noted that all participants had experience playing League of Legends (23.31 months ± 11.81 months), with an average weekly playtime of 3.33 ± 1.25 hours and a weekly play frequency of 3.33 ± 1.63 times. This study was approved by the ethics committee of Little Software (No. 2023-0001, Feb 28, 2022). Participants were informed that they could withdraw from the study at any time, and the purpose, content, and methods of the study were explained, with written consent obtained. Participant ID9 was excluded from the data analysis due to ingestion of hay fever medication. Therefore, the valid data consisted of 8 participants.

[0121] <Experimental Procedure> The experimental procedure is as follows.

[0122] (i) 0-5 minutes after the start of the test: MPG content description, pre-implementation, sensitivity setting (ii) 5 to 15 minutes after the start of the test: in a quiet state (iii) 15 to 18 minutes after the start of the test: Brainwave measurement at rest (iv) 18 to 22 minutes after the start of the test: Perform POMS2 (before sample intake). (v) 22-23 minutes after the start of the trial: Ingest the sample (GABA or placebo) (vi) 23 to 55 minutes after the start of the experiment: The game topic (32 minutes) and brainwave measurements (first half, middle half and final half, a total of 3 times) are carried out. (vii) 55 to 59 minutes after the start of the test: Perform POMS2 (after sample intake) It should be noted that in (vi), the subjects took a break and played the game multiple times.

[0123] <Analysis Scheme for Brainwave Data> Detailed timeline of EEG data measurement as follows Figure 7 As shown.

[0124] During the various brainwave measurements, alpha waves, beta waves, and SMR waves were measured. The SMR waves used in this experiment were those within the range of 12Hz to 13.25Hz, defined as SMR waves in this application specification.

[0125] (result) [Game Score] The game score results are as follows Figure 8 As shown, the total score was significantly higher in the GABA intake group compared to the placebo group.

[0126] [Brainwave Data] The results of various brainwave measurements (anterior, middle, and terminal discs) after GABA or placebo (dextrin) intake are as follows: Figure 9 As shown.

[0127] Figure 9 The “average” shown represents the change in brainwave measurements, which is the average of the “value at rest” and the “value during play”. Additionally, in the table, “Attention” represents beta waves, “Relax” represents alpha waves, and “Zone” represents SMR waves.

[0128] Furthermore, based on this measured value, a corresponding t-test (Paired t-test) (n=8) was performed, and the results are as follows: Figure 10 As shown.

[0129] A significant difference between GABA uptake and dextrin uptake was confirmed in the SMR waves of the terminal disc in the EEG (Pair 9 in the table) (P < 0.001).

[0130] In addition, the results of the two-way ANOVA (mixed design) (n=8, SMR wave only) are as follows Figure 11 As shown. Figure 11 In this study, the SMR waves after GABA or placebo (dextrin) intake (during game play) were shown as the difference from the resting state (1: first half, 2: middle half, 3: end half). It can be seen that GABA intake increases SMR waves compared to the resting state.

[0131] (Inspection) The above results confirm that GABA uptake induces the dominance of SMR waves.

[0132] (Example 5: Induction of flow state induced by GABA uptake) In this embodiment, it is demonstrated that the flow state induced by GABA uptake is generated when performing e-sports, VDT tasks, digital tasks and / or games, and does not induce the flow state in the experimental system of monotonous tasks.

[0133] (Experiment content) (1) Experiment 1: Darts Healthy adult men and women drank water containing 200mg of GABA or a placebo and practiced darts. The test food was ingested 15 minutes before the start of practice. Twelve darts were thrown from a distance of 2.37m onto a dartboard. Zones were divided according to distance from the center of the darts, and the number of darts hitting each zone was measured. Darts deflected by the target and not hitting the center were not counted.

[0134] Concentration was measured using the JINS MEME. Furthermore, the bias in time perception, a characteristic of the flow state, was evaluated using the VAS questionnaire.

[0135] (result) Darts score Figure 12 The scores for the darts are shown. A: Bullseye, B: Inside the double rings excluding the bullseye, C: Inside the triple rings and outside the double rings, each scored separately. The results show that subjects 1 and 2 both scored higher on the darts when ingesting GABA compared to those ingesting a placebo.

[0136] Concentration measurement and evaluation of time interval skew The time measurement results of the concentration / deep concentration state measured by the concentration measuring glasses (JINS MEME) are as follows: Figure 13 As shown. Additionally, the VAS questionnaire results regarding time perception bias are also presented.

[0137] The results show that subjects 1 and 2 had increased concentration time when ingesting GABA compared to when ingesting a placebo. On the other hand, there was no difference in perceived time between ingesting GABA and ingesting a placebo.

[0138] (2) Experimental Example 2: Concentration force evaluation test through calculation Healthy adult men and women were given either water containing 200mg of GABA or a placebo (water) and a paper-based calculation test was performed. The test food was ingested 15 minutes before the start of the exercise. A 5-minute calculation test was conducted, and the number of responses and accuracy rate were calculated.

[0139] (result) • Test Results Figure 14 The test results are shown. It can be seen that subjects 1 and 2 had a higher number of responses when ingesting GABA compared to when ingesting a placebo. Furthermore, no significant difference in accuracy was observed when comparing the placebo and GABA intake.

[0140] • Concentration measurement and evaluation of time interval skew The time measurement results of the concentration / deep concentration state measured by the concentration measuring glasses (JINS MEME) are as follows: Figure 15As shown. Additionally, the VAS questionnaire results regarding time perception bias are also presented.

[0141] The results show that subjects 1 and 2 had increased concentration time when ingesting GABA compared to when ingesting a placebo. On the other hand, there was no difference in perceived time between ingesting GABA and ingesting a placebo.

[0142] (Inspection) The above results confirm that GABA uptake failed to induce a state of flow in the experimental system of exercise or monotonous work described in reference 1.

[0143] (Remark) As described above, this disclosure has been illustrated using preferred embodiments, but it should be understood that the scope of this disclosure should be interpreted solely by the claims. It should be understood that the patents, patent applications, and other documents cited in this specification are, in themselves, referenced in this specification as specifically described herein. This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-141354, filed with the Japan Patent Office on August 31, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety as constituting the content of this application.

[0144] Industrial availability According to the present invention, by ingesting GABA, a state of flow (psychic state) can be induced, and therefore it is useful in fields that require cognitive or thinking abilities.

Claims

1. A composition for inducing an object into a state of flow, i.e., a state of immersion, wherein, It contains γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

2. The composition according to claim 1, characterized in that, The composition is ingested before the task is performed.

3. The composition according to claim 1, wherein, The flow state, or state of perfect tranquility, is defined at least by the deviation of perceived time.

4. The composition according to claim 1, wherein, The flow state, also known as the state of being in a state of enlightenment, includes a shortening of the perceived time.

5. The composition according to claim 2, wherein, The topic involves multiple tasks.

6. The composition according to claim 2, wherein, The topics covered include esports, VDT assignments, digital assignments, and games.

7. The composition according to claim 6, wherein, The games include TV games, PC games, and mobile games.

8. The composition according to claim 2, wherein it is ingested at least about 2 hours before or immediately before the performance of the task.

9. The composition according to claim 1, wherein, The content of the γ-aminobutyric acid is from about 10 mg to about 1000 mg.

10. The composition according to claim 1, wherein, The recommended intake of γ-aminobutyric acid is approximately 10 mg to approximately 1000 mg per day.

11. The composition according to claim 1, wherein it is taken orally.

12. The composition according to claim 1, wherein it is a beverage, food, supplement, food additive, quasi-pharmaceutical, or pharmaceutical.

13. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the composition is in the form of a liquid, powder, tablet or capsule.

14. The composition according to claim 1, used to induce an excited mood.

15. The composition according to claim 1, used to induce positive emotions.

16. The composition according to claim 1, which is used to reduce a decrease in vitality and energy.

17. The composition according to claim 1, used to relieve mental stress and / or fatigue.

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