What are gaming supplements? In simple terms, they are dietary supplements specifically designed for gamers, supporting focus, alertness, and overall mental performance during extended gaming sessions. Rather than making medical claims, gaming supplements are positioned as lifestyle products that enhance the gaming experience.
For new and existing supplement brand owners, gamer supplements represent a fast-growing niche worth serious consideration. According to Nutraceuticals World, the global gaming market generated approximately $227 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $312 billion by 2027, growing at a 7.9% compounded annual growth rate (CAGR).1Moloughney S. Betting Big on Supplements for Gaming and Esports. Nutraceuticals World. March 2, 2024. Retrieved July 29, 2025 from https://www.nutraceuticalsworld.com/betting-big-on-supplements-for-gaming-and-esports/. With millions of consumers identifying as gamers, the demand for innovative gaming supplements offers a clear opportunity for brands looking to start or expand their product lines.
Do Gaming Supplements Really Work? The Science Behind Gaming Supplements
Do gaming supplements work? It’s a question many brand owners and consumers are asking as the category continues to expand. While gaming supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure medical conditions, research on certain nutraceutical ingredients suggests they may play a role in supporting focus, alertness, and mental stamina – factors that are highly valued in the gaming community.
In the following section, we’ll review some of the key ingredients commonly used in gamer supplements and highlight what current studies suggest about their role in enhancing the overall gaming experience.
Key Benefits of Gamer Supplements
Some of the key benefits associated with ingredients found in gamer supplements are as follows:
Benefit | Key Ingredient(s) |
Improve accuracy, decision-making, and reaction time | Inositol-enhanced arginine silicate |
Improve eye-hand coordination, focus, and energy |
Aronia melanocarpa extract
|
Maintain and promote cognitive function, as well as reduce “toxicity” | Lion’s mane |
Enhance cognitive performance, learning, and memory performance | Bacopa monnieri extract |
Improve vigor and psychological well-being, reduce fatigue | Ashwagandha extract |
Improve reaction time, promote energy, restore mental alertness, and counter fatigue | Caffeine |
Increase “K/D/A” during gameplay | Caffeine/polyphenol |
Improve mental focus under occasional stress and reduce mental fatigue | Rhodiola extract |
Promote sleep/recovery | Phytomelatonin |
Lower body core temperature, which makes it easier to fall asleep | Glycine |
Promote relaxation to calm the mind before bedtime | GABA |
Reduce stress and heart rate | L-Theanine |
Protect against blue light damage, improve visual performance, improve sleep quality, and reduce occasional stress | Lutein and zeaxanthin isomers |
Reduce eye fatigue, stiff shoulders and back, and oxidative stress | Astaxanthin |
Improved Cognitive Function
For supplement brand owners exploring this category, a gaming nootropic formula often highlights ingredients associated with focus, mental clarity, and overall cognitive performance. While ongoing research continues to expand, several ingredients have been studied for their potential role in promoting improved cognitive function:
- Inositol-enhanced arginine silicate – A double-blind2Tartar JL, Kalman D, Hewlings S. A Prospective Study Evaluating the Effects of a Nutritional Supplement Intervention on Cognition, Mood States, and Mental Performance in Video Gamers. Nutrients. 2019 Oct; 11(10): 2326. A placebo-controlled study demonstrated that this nutraceutical improved gamers’ accuracy, decision-making, and reaction time during gaming.
- Aronia melanocarpa extract – An open-label study3Proprietary Aronia berry extract improves acute and short-term gaming performance in a young, healthy gamer population: study report. BioActor B.V. Brightlands Health Campus Gaetano Martinolaan 85, 6229GS Maastricht, Netherlands. Unpublished. March 29, 2021: 19 pgs. found that this berry botanical provided acute improvement in eye-hand coordination, focus, energy, and (oddly) even happiness.
- Lion’s mane – Although not studied specifically in gamers, research suggests it may help maintain cognitive function4Saitsu Y, Nishide A, Kikushima K, Shimizu K, Ohnuki K. Improvement of cognitive functions by oral intake of Hericium erinaceus. Biomed Res. 2019;40(4):125-131. 5Mori K, Inatomi S, Ouchi K, Azumi Y, Tuchida T. Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytother Res. 2009 Mar;23(3):367-72., and support overall mental wellness.6Nagano M, Shimizu K, Kondo R, Hayashi C, Sato D, Kitagawa K, Ohnuki K. Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake. Biomed Res. 2010 Aug;31(4):231-7.
- Bacopa monnieri extract – Although not specific for gamers, studies on this herbal extract found that supplementation enhanced cognitive performance7Calabrese C, Gregory WL, Leo M, Kraemer D, Bone K, Oken B. Effects of a Standardized Bacopa monnieri Extract on Cognitive Performance, Anxiety, and Depression in the Elderly: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. J Altern Complem Med. 2008;14(6):707–713., supported learning and memory8Stough C, Lloyd J, Clarke J, Downey LA, Hutchison CW, Rodgers T, Nathan PJ. The chronic effects of an extract of Bacopa monniera (Brahmi) on cognitive function in healthy human subjects. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2001 Aug;156(4):481-4., and improved memory performance.9Stough C, Downey LA, Lloyd J, Silber B, Redman S, Hutchison C, Wesnes K, Nathan PJ. Examining the nootropic effects of a special extract of Bacopa monniera on human cognitive functioning: 90-day double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial. Phytother Res. 2008 Dec;22(12):1629-34. 10Pase MP, Kean J, Sarris J, Neale C, Scholey AB, Stough C. The cognitive-enhancing effects of Bacopa monnieri: a systematic review of randomized, controlled human clinical trials. J Altern Complement Med. 2012 Jul;18(7):647-52.
Increased Endurance and Reduced Fatigue
Adaptogenic herbs, caffeine, and polyphenols are often incorporated into formulations designed to support energy levels and help address fatigue. While research varies, several ingredients have been studied for their potential role in maintaining stamina and focus:
- Ashwagandha extract – Although not specific for gamers, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study11Lopresti AL, Drummond PD, Smith SJ. A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study Examining the Hormonal and Vitality Effects of Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera) in Aging, Overweight Males. Am J Mens Health. Mar-Apr 2019;13(2):1557988319835985. demonstrated that daily supplementation with this adaptogenic herbal extract led to reduced fatigue, improved vigor, and promoted psychological well-being.
- Caffeine/polyphenol blend – Caffeine alone has been shown to help improve reaction time within 20 minutes12Smit HJ, Rogers PJ. Effects of low doses of caffeine on cognitive performance, mood, and thirst in low and higher caffeine consumers. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2000 Oct;152(2):167-73. 13Smith A. Effects of caffeine in chewing gum on mood and attention. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2009 Apr;24(3):239-47., promote energy, restore mental alertness, and counter fatigue.14Food and Drug Administration. Code of Federal Regulations: Part 340—Stimulant Drug Products for Over-The-Counter Human Use, Subpart A and B; 2000: 235. 15Institute of Medicine. Caffeine for the Sustainment of Mental Task Performance: Formulations for Military Operations. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2001. Available at: http://books.nap.edu/books/0309082587/html/index.html. 16Miller LS, Lombardo TW, Fowler SC. Caffeine and time of day effects on a force discrimination task in humans. Physiol Behav 1995;57(6):1117-1125. 17Griffiths RR, Evans SM, Heishman SJ, Preston KL, Sannerud CA, Wolf B, Woodson PP. Low-dose caffeine discrimination in humans. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 1990 Mar;252(3):970-8. 18Silverman K, Griffiths RR. Low-dose caffeine discrimination and self-reported mood effects in normal volunteers. J Exp Anal Behav. 1992 January; 57(1): 91–107. 19Smith A. Effects of caffeine in chewing gum on mood and attention. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2009 Apr;24(3):239-47. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in gamers20Bloomer RJ, Martin KR, Pence JC. Impact of AmaTea® Max on physiological measures and gaming performance in active gamers: A placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized study. J Clin Transl Res. 2022 Mar 1;8(2):93-102. PMID: 35392125; PMCID: PMC8983391. demonstrated that the nutraceutical blend of caffeine and polyphenols modestly increased K/D/A during gameplay.
- Rhodiola extract – Although not specific for gamers, research21Darbinyan V, Kteyan A, Panossian A, Gabrielian E, Wikman G, Wagner H. Rhodiola rosea in stress-induced fatigue–a double blind crossover study of a standardized extract SHR-5 with a repeated low-dose regimen on the mental performance of healthy physicians during night duty. Phytomedicine. 2000 Oct;7(5):365-71. 22Spasov AA, Wikman GK, Mandrikov VB, Mironova IA, Neumoin VV. A double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study of the stimulating and adaptogenic effect of Rhodiola rosea SHR-5 extract on the fatigue of students caused by stress during an examination period with a repeated low-dose regimen. Phytomedicine. 2000 Apr;7(2):85-9. on this adaptogenic herbal extract found that supplementation helped reduce mental fatigue and improve mental focus and work while under occasional stress.
Better Sleep and Stress Management
Extended gaming sessions have been shown to disrupt normal sleep patterns and contribute to occasional stress. Certain nutraceutical ingredients are often considered in formulations designed to support relaxation and healthy sleep cycles:
- Phytomelatonin – A plant-based alternative to synthetic melatonin, phytomelatonin is derived from sources such as tomatoes. Research suggests it may support healthy sleep quality, sometimes at lower doses than traditional synthetic options.23Bruno G, et al. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the effects of Somnatural™ 1mg and 3mg capsules and synthetic melatonin 10mg capsules on sleep quality and overall health outcomes. Radicle Science. Unpublished; 2024.
- Glycine – Studies indicate glycine supplementation may play a role in easing the transition to sleep by supporting thermoregulation and relaxation.24Bannai M, Kawai N. New therapeutic strategy for amino acid medicine: glycine improves the quality of sleep. J Pharmacol Sci. 2012;118(2):145-148. doi:10.1254/jphs.11r04fm
- GABA – Commonly included in formulations for its calming properties25 Abdou AM, Higashiguchi S, Horie K, Kim M, Hatta H, Yokogoshi H. Relaxation and immunity enhancement effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) administration in humans. Biofactors. 2006;26(3):201-8. 26Yamatsu A, Yamashita Y, Maru I, Yang J, Tatsuzaki J, Kim M. The Improvement of Sleep by Oral Intake of GABA and Apocynum venetum Leaf Extract. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo). 2015;61(2):182-7., GABA is associated with promoting a sense of relaxation before bedtime.
- L-Theanine – Various studies have examined the effects of this amino acid on occasional stress and anxiety27Kimura K, Ozeki M, Juneja LR, Ohira H. L-Theanine reduces psychological and physiological stress responses. Biol Psychol 2007;74(1):39-45 28Unno K, Tanida N, Ishii N, et al. Anti-stress effect of theanine on students during pharmacy practice: positive correlation among salivary α-amylase activity, trait anxiety, and subjective stress. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2013 Oct;111:128-35. 29Yoto A, Motoki M, Murao S, Yokogoshi H. Effects of L-theanine or caffeine intake on changes in blood pressure under physical and psychological stresses. J Physiol Anthropol. 2012 Oct 29;31:28. 30Higashyama A, Htay HH, Ozeki M, Juneja LR, Kapoor MP. Effects of l-theanine on attention and reaction time response. Journal of Functional Foods. 2011;3(3):171–178., showing it may help reduce physiological indicators of stress within 15 minutes, including lowered heart rate, decreased neuron excitation, and suppression of the initial stress response.
Better Eye Health for Long Gaming Sessions
Digital devices, such as computer monitors, project wavelengths of light called blue light, which have great potential to damage retinal tissue, including by inducing free radicals.31Algvere PV, Marshall J, Seregard S. Age-related maculopathy and the impact of blue light hazard. Acta Ophthalmol Scand. 2006 Feb;84(1):4-15. 32Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR). 2012. Health Effects of Artificial Light. Accessed from http://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/emerging/docs/scenihr_o_035.pdf. Research indicates this can result in eye strain, with indications such as headaches, eye fatigue, and more. For supplement brand owners, several carotenoids are commonly included in formulations positioned to support visual performance and overall eye health:
- Lutein and zeaxanthin – Research33Stringham JM, O’Brien KJ, Stringham NT. Macular carotenoid supplementation improves disability glare performance and dynamics of photostress recovery. Eye Vis (Lond). 2016 Nov 11;3:30.34Stringham NT, Holmes PV, Stringham JM. Supplementation with macular carotenoids reduces psychological stress, serum cortisol, and sub-optimal symptoms of physical and emotional health in young adults. Nutr Neurosci. 2017 Feb 15:1-11. 35Contrast sensitivity – Accepted (IOVS) in press 36Stringham J. Effects of three levels of lutein supplementation on macular pigment optical density, psychological stress levels, and overall health. Nutritional Neuroscience Laboratory, University of Georgia. Unpublished. 2016:17 pgs. 37Stringham JM et al. Short-term macular carotenoid supplementation improves overall sleep quality. ARVO 2016 Annual Meeting Abstracts has demonstrated that supplementation with these carotenoids can protect against blue light damage, improve visual performance and total antioxidant potential, reduce occasional psychological stress, and improve sleep quality.
- Astaxanthin – Combining astaxanthin with lutein and zeaxanthin improved eye focus and visual performance in gamers.38Kizawa Y, Sekikawa T, Kageyama M, Tomobe H, Kobashi R, Yamada T. Effects of anthocyanin, astaxanthin, and lutein on eye functions: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Clin Biochem Nutr. 2021 Jul;69(1):77-90. Furthermore, several studies39Nagaki Y, Mihara M, Tsukuhara H, Ohno S. The supplementation effect of Astaxanthin on Accommodation and Asthenopia. Journal of Clinical Therapeutics & Medicines. 2006; 22(1):41-54. 40Sekikawa T, Kizawa Y, Li Y, Miura N. Effects of diet containing astaxanthin on visual function in healthy individuals: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel study. J Clin Biochem Nutr. 2023 Jan;72(1):74-81. 41Shiratori K, Ogami K, Nitta T, et al. Effect of Astaxanthin on Accommodation and Asthenopia-Efficacy-Identification Study in Healthy Volunteers. Journal of Clinical Therapeutics & Medicines. 2005;21(6):637-650. have demonstrated that supplementation with this carotenoid also reduces eye fatigue, stiff shoulders and back, and oxidative stress.
Why Are Gaming Supplements Becoming So Popular?
Gaming supplements continue to gain momentum, and several cultural and market factors help explain their rise.
The Growing Esports Industry and Its Impact
Globally, an estimated 3 billion people play video games, and in the U.S., roughly 74% of households include at least one gamer.42Gaming Statistics. TrueList. 5/24/22. Retrieved June 22, 2022 from https://truelist.co/blog/gaming-statistics/#:~:text=Over%20227%20million%20people%20in,than%2065%20play%20video%20games. This widespread participation has fueled the growth of Esports—organized, competitive video gaming supported by live-streaming platforms and millions of spectators.43Tassi, Paul (20 December 2012). ”2012: The Year of eSports”. Forbes. Retrieved 15 August 2013. 44Ben Popper (30 September 2013). ”Field of Streams: How Twitch Made Video Games a Spectator Sport”. The Verge. Retrieved 9 October 2013. In fact, in 2017, the International Olympic Committee acknowledged the legitimacy of Esports.45Hamari J, Sjöblom M. What is eSports and why do people watch it? Internet Research.2016; 27 (2): 211–232.46Tassi, Paul (20 December 2012). “2012: The Year of eSports”. Forbes. Retrieved 15 August 2013.
Gamers Seeking a Competitive Edge
As Esports continues to grow, so does the drive among players to achieve their personal best. Just as athletes in traditional sports turn to dietary supplements to support performance, gamers are beginning to explore products formulated for focus, energy, and endurance. This trend highlights a unique opportunity for supplement brand owners to develop formulas tailored to the needs of this rapidly expanding consumer base.
Changing Attitudes Towards Health and Well-Being
In recent years, gamer culture has shifted toward greater awareness of both mental and physical wellness. Organizations like Take This and Safe in Our World are dedicated to addressing mental health in gaming, providing resources, support, and reducing stigma. At the same time, grassroots movements and peer-led groups on platforms like Twitch47Ben Popper (30 September 2013). “Field of Streams: How Twitch Made Video Games a Spectator Sport”. The Verge. Retrieved 9 October 2013. are encouraging self-care practices among players. This evolving mindset has opened the door for discussions around gamers’ nutrition and the role supplements can play in supporting overall health and well-being.48Grohmann, Karolos (28 October 2017). “E-sports just got closer to being part of the Olympics”. Reuters. Retrieved 5 November 2017.
What Makes a Supplement Stand Out for Gamers?
Not all supplements resonate equally with the gaming community. Several factors help distinguish products that capture attention and build loyalty among gamers:
- Convenience: Gamers often prefer formats beyond traditional capsules or tablets. Fast-melt tablets, effervescent options, and stick-packs with quick-dissolving powders provide convenience and speed valued by these individuals.
- Precise Dosing: Evidence-based ingredients should be delivered at research-supported levels to ensure both efficacy and authenticity in the eyes of the target audience.
- Backed by Real Science: Ingredients supported by human studies, particularly those involving gamers, add credibility and strengthen consumer trust.
- Clean Formulations: The three primary considerations for clean formulations include the minimal use of excipients, the use of natural ingredients, and sustainable, environmentally friendly positioning.
The Future of Gaming Nutrition
Future trends in gaming supplements reflect strong market growth, innovation in delivery formats, and an expanding focus on clean, natural, and plant-based formulations. Together, these factors point to new opportunities for supplement brand owners looking to enter or expand in this dynamic category.
Market Growth and Innovation
The global nootropics-for-gamers market is currently valued at $2.5 billion and is projected to reach $8 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 18%.49enkins J. Metal health in gaming communities: support systems and challenges. Mental Health Wellness. October 19, 2024. Retrieved August 4, 2025 from https://www.mentalhealthwellnessmhw.com/blog/mental-health-in-gaming-communities-support-systems-and-challenges#:~:text=Mental%20Health%20Organizations%20for%20Gamers&text=These%20organizations%20work%20to%20break,both%20for%20players%20and%20developers. This remarkable trajectory underscores both strong consumer demand and a pipeline of continued innovation.
Convenient Formats
A key area of innovation is the move beyond standard tablets and capsules toward dosage forms that better fit the gaming lifestyle:
- Fast-melt tablets – These dissolve quickly in the mouth, often in under a minute, without water. This format is ideal for convenience, pill fatigue, and potential bioavailability advantages.
- Effervescent tablets – This delivery format has gradually increased in popularity among consumers. These larger round tablets are designed to be placed in a glass of water, where they fizz and dissolve into the liquid.
- Stick-packs – These are individually portioned powders designed to dissolve rapidly in water or other beverages, offering portability and ease of use.
Natural & Plant-Based Formulations
The plant-based supplement market continues to expand, fueled by consumer demand for wellness, sustainability, and ethical choices. Estimated at $27.52 billion in 2025, the market is projected to grow to $42.27 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 9.0%.50Nutrition for Gamers: Even Esports Players Need Fuel from Food. UPMC Health Beat. June 2, 2022. Retrieved August 4, 2025 from https://share.upmc.com/2021/11/nutrition-for-gamers/#:~:text=It’s%20also%20important%20to%20maintain,later%20stages%20of%20their%20careers. For gaming supplements, this shift translates into rising interest in botanical ingredients and natural formulations that align with consumer values and lifestyle choices.51Nootropics for Gamers Market Size, Share, Trends &Competitive Analysis By Type: Natural Nootropics,Synthetic Nootropics, Prescription Nootropics, Non-prescription Nootropics By Form: By Ingredient: ByFunction: By Application: Professional Gamers, CasualGamers, Streamers and Content Creators, eSportsOrganizations By Distribution Channel: By End-UserDemographics: By Regions, and Industry Forecast,Global Report 2025-2033. Retrieved August 4, 2025 from https://www.futuredatastats.com/nootropics-gamers-market?srsltid=AfmBOoqPJO9pDovNm5sBXgkuJMdbInALT49gcsSTnlwcg9DtB-gLWRbC.
Broader Health Focus
As previously discussed, supplements for gamers have largely centered on cognitive function, endurance, fatigue reduction, sleep support, stress management, and eye health during long gaming sessions. Looking ahead, however, this category is expected to expand into a broader focus on overall wellness. Areas such as mental well-being, physical fitness, and longevity are likely to gain importance as the gaming community continues to age and as awareness grows around the physical and mental demands of extended play.
Conclusion
This article addressed the question, “What are gaming supplements?” by exploring their rise alongside the growth of Esports and the broader gaming community. As interest in specialized supplements formulated to promote focus, endurance, sleep, stress management, and eye health increases, brand owners have an opportunity to expand into this fast-growing category.
Choosing the right gaming supplement manufacturer is essential. A qualified contract supplement manufacturer should be able to offer the diverse dosage forms covered in this article, engage in sustainable sourcing, eco-friendly practices, and possess third-party GMP certifications. By aligning with a trusted partner in gaming supplement manufacturing, brands can meet consumer expectations while building credibility and long-term success.
Are you ready to capitalize on the gaming supplement trends discussed in this article? If so, call 800-526-9095 to speak with one of our knowledgeable sales executives or request a nutraceutical manufacturing price quote if you’ve already finalized your project requirements!
Frequently Asked Questions About Gaming Supplements
Why do gamers need supplements?
Gamers use supplements for many of the same reasons as traditional athletes. For competitive Esports players, the goal is often to improve performance, focus, and reaction time to gain a competitive edge. But gaming isn’t only about competition. Many people participate in gaming as a hobby or form of recreation. Just like someone who practices yoga casually may still take supplements to support their overall wellness, casual gamers may also be interested in supplements that help with energy, focus, or general health.
What do gaming supplements do for gamers?
A well-formulated gaming supplement may help improve cognitive function while increasing endurance and reducing fatigue. Likewise, it may help with better sleep and stress management. Gaming supplements may also help promote better eye health for long gaming sessions.
Do nootropics work for gaming performance?
Many do. For example, inositol-enhanced arginine silicate can help improve accuracy, decision making, and reaction time; Aronia melanocarpa extract can help improve eye-hand coordination, focus, energy, and happiness; Lion’s mane can help maintain and promote cognitive function as well as reduce moodiness, and Bacopa monnieri extract may help enhance cognitive performance, learning, and improve memory performance.
How do gaming supplements improve endurance and recovery?
It depends on the ingredients and formulation. Adaptogens such as Ashwagandha and Rhodiola have been shown in research to improve fatigue (including mental fatigue), vigor, psychological well-being, mental focus, and mental work during stress. Other ingredients such as lutein, zeaxanthin, and astaxanthin help to protect against blue light damage, reduce eye fatigue and occasional stress, and even help with stiff shoulders and back.
What are the top ingredients in gaming supplements?
Besides caffeine, there are a number of other evidence-based ingredients that are popular for promoting cognitive function, increasing endurance, reducing fatigue, and helping with sleep and stress management. These include inositol-enhanced arginine silicate, Aronia melanocarpa extract, Lion’s mane, Bacopa monnieri extract, Ashwagandha extract, caffeine/polyphenol blend, Rhodiola extract, Phytomelatonin, Glycine, GABA, L-Theanine, lutein and zeaxanthin, and astaxanthin.
Are there any side effects of using gaming supplements?
That all depends on what the supplement contains. Most of the ingredients used in gaming supplements in the doses provided are not likely to have side effects. However, caffeine is the most common gaming supplement ingredient, and it is entirely possible to consume too much caffeine, resulting in nervousness, the jitters, and an increase in blood pressure—especially if it is consumed with other caffeine-containing beverages such as coffee or energy drinks. Consult your healthcare professional if you have any specific questions.
How can supplements help professional Esports players?
Some supplement ingredients have been studied in Esports players and found to improve accuracy, decision making, reaction time, eye-hand coordination, focus, and energy, and increase k/d/a during gameplay.
Do gaming supplements really enhance competitive performance?
It all depends on whether the product being used is well formulated and if it uses evidence-based ingredients at clinically relevant doses. There are several ingredients with studies demonstrating effectiveness for improving cognitive function while increasing endurance and reducing fatigue in gamers. These ingredients include inositol-enhanced arginine silicate, Aronia melanocarpa extract, and a caffeine/polyphenol blend.
References
- 1Moloughney S. Betting Big on Supplements for Gaming and Esports. Nutraceuticals World. March 2, 2024. Retrieved July 29, 2025 from https://www.nutraceuticalsworld.com/betting-big-on-supplements-for-gaming-and-esports/.
- 2Tartar JL, Kalman D, Hewlings S. A Prospective Study Evaluating the Effects of a Nutritional Supplement Intervention on Cognition, Mood States, and Mental Performance in Video Gamers. Nutrients. 2019 Oct; 11(10): 2326.
- 3Proprietary Aronia berry extract improves acute and short-term gaming performance in a young, healthy gamer population: study report. BioActor B.V. Brightlands Health Campus Gaetano Martinolaan 85, 6229GS Maastricht, Netherlands. Unpublished. March 29, 2021: 19 pgs.
- 4Saitsu Y, Nishide A, Kikushima K, Shimizu K, Ohnuki K. Improvement of cognitive functions by oral intake of Hericium erinaceus. Biomed Res. 2019;40(4):125-131.
- 5Mori K, Inatomi S, Ouchi K, Azumi Y, Tuchida T. Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytother Res. 2009 Mar;23(3):367-72.
- 6Nagano M, Shimizu K, Kondo R, Hayashi C, Sato D, Kitagawa K, Ohnuki K. Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake. Biomed Res. 2010 Aug;31(4):231-7.
- 7Calabrese C, Gregory WL, Leo M, Kraemer D, Bone K, Oken B. Effects of a Standardized Bacopa monnieri Extract on Cognitive Performance, Anxiety, and Depression in the Elderly: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. J Altern Complem Med. 2008;14(6):707–713.
- 8Stough C, Lloyd J, Clarke J, Downey LA, Hutchison CW, Rodgers T, Nathan PJ. The chronic effects of an extract of Bacopa monniera (Brahmi) on cognitive function in healthy human subjects. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2001 Aug;156(4):481-4.
- 9Stough C, Downey LA, Lloyd J, Silber B, Redman S, Hutchison C, Wesnes K, Nathan PJ. Examining the nootropic effects of a special extract of Bacopa monniera on human cognitive functioning: 90-day double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial. Phytother Res. 2008 Dec;22(12):1629-34.
- 10Pase MP, Kean J, Sarris J, Neale C, Scholey AB, Stough C. The cognitive-enhancing effects of Bacopa monnieri: a systematic review of randomized, controlled human clinical trials. J Altern Complement Med. 2012 Jul;18(7):647-52.
- 11Lopresti AL, Drummond PD, Smith SJ. A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study Examining the Hormonal and Vitality Effects of Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera) in Aging, Overweight Males. Am J Mens Health. Mar-Apr 2019;13(2):1557988319835985.
- 12Smit HJ, Rogers PJ. Effects of low doses of caffeine on cognitive performance, mood, and thirst in low and higher caffeine consumers. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2000 Oct;152(2):167-73.
- 13Smith A. Effects of caffeine in chewing gum on mood and attention. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2009 Apr;24(3):239-47.
- 14Food and Drug Administration. Code of Federal Regulations: Part 340—Stimulant Drug Products for Over-The-Counter Human Use, Subpart A and B; 2000: 235.
- 15Institute of Medicine. Caffeine for the Sustainment of Mental Task Performance: Formulations for Military Operations. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2001. Available at: http://books.nap.edu/books/0309082587/html/index.html.
- 16Miller LS, Lombardo TW, Fowler SC. Caffeine and time of day effects on a force discrimination task in humans. Physiol Behav 1995;57(6):1117-1125.
- 17Griffiths RR, Evans SM, Heishman SJ, Preston KL, Sannerud CA, Wolf B, Woodson PP. Low-dose caffeine discrimination in humans. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 1990 Mar;252(3):970-8.
- 18Silverman K, Griffiths RR. Low-dose caffeine discrimination and self-reported mood effects in normal volunteers. J Exp Anal Behav. 1992 January; 57(1): 91–107.
- 19Smith A. Effects of caffeine in chewing gum on mood and attention. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2009 Apr;24(3):239-47.
- 20Bloomer RJ, Martin KR, Pence JC. Impact of AmaTea® Max on physiological measures and gaming performance in active gamers: A placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized study. J Clin Transl Res. 2022 Mar 1;8(2):93-102. PMID: 35392125; PMCID: PMC8983391.
- 21Darbinyan V, Kteyan A, Panossian A, Gabrielian E, Wikman G, Wagner H. Rhodiola rosea in stress-induced fatigue–a double blind crossover study of a standardized extract SHR-5 with a repeated low-dose regimen on the mental performance of healthy physicians during night duty. Phytomedicine. 2000 Oct;7(5):365-71.
- 22Spasov AA, Wikman GK, Mandrikov VB, Mironova IA, Neumoin VV. A double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study of the stimulating and adaptogenic effect of Rhodiola rosea SHR-5 extract on the fatigue of students caused by stress during an examination period with a repeated low-dose regimen. Phytomedicine. 2000 Apr;7(2):85-9.
- 23Bruno G, et al. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the effects of Somnatural™ 1mg and 3mg capsules and synthetic melatonin 10mg capsules on sleep quality and overall health outcomes. Radicle Science. Unpublished; 2024.
- 24Bannai M, Kawai N. New therapeutic strategy for amino acid medicine: glycine improves the quality of sleep. J Pharmacol Sci. 2012;118(2):145-148. doi:10.1254/jphs.11r04fm
- 25Abdou AM, Higashiguchi S, Horie K, Kim M, Hatta H, Yokogoshi H. Relaxation and immunity enhancement effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) administration in humans. Biofactors. 2006;26(3):201-8.
- 26Yamatsu A, Yamashita Y, Maru I, Yang J, Tatsuzaki J, Kim M. The Improvement of Sleep by Oral Intake of GABA and Apocynum venetum Leaf Extract. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo). 2015;61(2):182-7.
- 27Kimura K, Ozeki M, Juneja LR, Ohira H. L-Theanine reduces psychological and physiological stress responses. Biol Psychol 2007;74(1):39-45
- 28Unno K, Tanida N, Ishii N, et al. Anti-stress effect of theanine on students during pharmacy practice: positive correlation among salivary α-amylase activity, trait anxiety, and subjective stress. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2013 Oct;111:128-35.
- 29Yoto A, Motoki M, Murao S, Yokogoshi H. Effects of L-theanine or caffeine intake on changes in blood pressure under physical and psychological stresses. J Physiol Anthropol. 2012 Oct 29;31:28.
- 30Higashyama A, Htay HH, Ozeki M, Juneja LR, Kapoor MP. Effects of l-theanine on attention and reaction time response. Journal of Functional Foods. 2011;3(3):171–178.
- 31Algvere PV, Marshall J, Seregard S. Age-related maculopathy and the impact of blue light hazard. Acta Ophthalmol Scand. 2006 Feb;84(1):4-15.
- 32Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR). 2012. Health Effects of Artificial Light. Accessed from http://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/emerging/docs/scenihr_o_035.pdf.
- 33Stringham JM, O’Brien KJ, Stringham NT. Macular carotenoid supplementation improves disability glare performance and dynamics of photostress recovery. Eye Vis (Lond). 2016 Nov 11;3:30.
- 34Stringham NT, Holmes PV, Stringham JM. Supplementation with macular carotenoids reduces psychological stress, serum cortisol, and sub-optimal symptoms of physical and emotional health in young adults. Nutr Neurosci. 2017 Feb 15:1-11.
- 35Contrast sensitivity – Accepted (IOVS) in press
- 36Stringham J. Effects of three levels of lutein supplementation on macular pigment optical density, psychological stress levels, and overall health. Nutritional Neuroscience Laboratory, University of Georgia. Unpublished. 2016:17 pgs.
- 37Stringham JM et al. Short-term macular carotenoid supplementation improves overall sleep quality. ARVO 2016 Annual Meeting Abstracts
- 38Kizawa Y, Sekikawa T, Kageyama M, Tomobe H, Kobashi R, Yamada T. Effects of anthocyanin, astaxanthin, and lutein on eye functions: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Clin Biochem Nutr. 2021 Jul;69(1):77-90.
- 39Nagaki Y, Mihara M, Tsukuhara H, Ohno S. The supplementation effect of Astaxanthin on Accommodation and Asthenopia. Journal of Clinical Therapeutics & Medicines. 2006; 22(1):41-54.
- 40Sekikawa T, Kizawa Y, Li Y, Miura N. Effects of diet containing astaxanthin on visual function in healthy individuals: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel study. J Clin Biochem Nutr. 2023 Jan;72(1):74-81.
- 41Shiratori K, Ogami K, Nitta T, et al. Effect of Astaxanthin on Accommodation and Asthenopia-Efficacy-Identification Study in Healthy Volunteers. Journal of Clinical Therapeutics & Medicines. 2005;21(6):637-650.
- 42Gaming Statistics. TrueList. 5/24/22. Retrieved June 22, 2022 from https://truelist.co/blog/gaming-statistics/#:~:text=Over%20227%20million%20people%20in,than%2065%20play%20video%20games.
- 43Tassi, Paul (20 December 2012). ”2012: The Year of eSports”. Forbes. Retrieved 15 August 2013.
- 44Ben Popper (30 September 2013). ”Field of Streams: How Twitch Made Video Games a Spectator Sport”. The Verge. Retrieved 9 October 2013.
- 45Hamari J, Sjöblom M. What is eSports and why do people watch it? Internet Research.2016; 27 (2): 211–232.
- 46Tassi, Paul (20 December 2012). “2012: The Year of eSports”. Forbes. Retrieved 15 August 2013.
- 47Ben Popper (30 September 2013). “Field of Streams: How Twitch Made Video Games a Spectator Sport”. The Verge. Retrieved 9 October 2013.
- 48Grohmann, Karolos (28 October 2017). “E-sports just got closer to being part of the Olympics”. Reuters. Retrieved 5 November 2017.
- 49enkins J. Metal health in gaming communities: support systems and challenges. Mental Health Wellness. October 19, 2024. Retrieved August 4, 2025 from https://www.mentalhealthwellnessmhw.com/blog/mental-health-in-gaming-communities-support-systems-and-challenges#:~:text=Mental%20Health%20Organizations%20for%20Gamers&text=These%20organizations%20work%20to%20break,both%20for%20players%20and%20developers.
- 50Nutrition for Gamers: Even Esports Players Need Fuel from Food. UPMC Health Beat. June 2, 2022. Retrieved August 4, 2025 from https://share.upmc.com/2021/11/nutrition-for-gamers/#:~:text=It’s%20also%20important%20to%20maintain,later%20stages%20of%20their%20careers.
- 51Nootropics for Gamers Market Size, Share, Trends &Competitive Analysis By Type: Natural Nootropics,Synthetic Nootropics, Prescription Nootropics, Non-prescription Nootropics By Form: By Ingredient: ByFunction: By Application: Professional Gamers, CasualGamers, Streamers and Content Creators, eSportsOrganizations By Distribution Channel: By End-UserDemographics: By Regions, and Industry Forecast,Global Report 2025-2033. Retrieved August 4, 2025 from https://www.futuredatastats.com/nootropics-gamers-market?srsltid=AfmBOoqPJO9pDovNm5sBXgkuJMdbInALT49gcsSTnlwcg9DtB-gLWRbC.