Sparkling water consumption mitigates cognitive fatigue during prolonged esports play

Prolonged esports play induces cognitive fatigue, characterized by diminished executive function with pupil constriction. Players often rely on caffeinated or sugary drinks to combat fatigue, but regular use poses health risks. Sparkling water, a sugar- and caffeine-free beverage, stimulates brainstem and prefrontal activity via sensory pathways potentially mediated by transient receptor potential (TRP) channels in the throat. This study tested the hypothesis that sparkling water mitigates cognitive fatigue during prolonged esports play. Fifteen young adult players participated in a randomized crossover trial, each completing two 3-hour sessions of a virtual football game while consuming either sparkling water or plain water. Subjective fatigue, enjoyment, and executive function (via a flanker task) were measured at baseline and hourly, while pupil diameter and heart rate were monitored continuously. Blood glucose and salivary cortisol were assessed periodically. Compared to plain water, sparkling water significantly attenuated increases in subjective fatigue, enhanced enjoyment, and preserved executive function, along with preventing pupil constriction. Heart rate, blood glucose, and salivary cortisol levels did not differ between conditions. Notably, players committed fewer in-game fouls with sparkling water, while offensive and defensive performance remained unchanged. These findings demonstrate that sparkling water contribute to alleviate both subjective and objective signs of cognitive fatigue during prolonged esports play, consistent with our hypothesis. This non-caffeinated intervention may help sustain inhibitory control and promote fair behavior, offering a safe and sustainable strategy for managing mental fatigue in modern life. • Sparkling water alleviates cognitive fatigue and boosts enjoyment during esports. • Pupil constriction, a marker of mental fatigue, is prevented during extended gameplay. • Players stay alert without elevations in blood glucose or cortisol during esports sessions. • Fewer fouls occur in virtual football, with performance levels remaining unchanged. • A caffeine- and sugar-free method supports mental stamina in modern digital life.