Abstract
Factors influencing brain function and cognitive performance can be critical to athletic performance of esports athletes. This review aims to discuss the potential beneficial effects of micronutrients, i.e., vitamins, minerals and biologically active substances on cognitive functions of e-athletes. Minerals (iodine, zinc, iron, magnesium) and vitamins (B vitamins, vitamins E, D, and C) are significant factors that positively influence cognitive functions. Prevention of deficiencies of the listed ingredients and regular examinations can support cognitive processes. The beneficial effects of caffeine, creatine, and probiotics have been documented so far. There are many plant products, herbal extracts, or phytonutrients that have been shown to affect precognitive activity, but more research is needed. Beetroot juice and nootropics can also be essential nutrients for cognitive performance. For the sake of players’ eyesight, it would be useful to use lutein, which, in addition to improving vision and protecting against eye diseases, can also affect cognitive functions. In supporting the physical and mental abilities of e-athletes the base is a well-balanced diet with adequate hydration. There is a lack of sufficient evidence that has investigated the relationship between dietary effects and improved performance in esports. Therefore, there is a need for randomized controlled trials involving esports players.
Highlights
The increasingly frequent incidence of neurodegenerative diseases and the lack of an effective method for their treatment have resulted in an increased interest in dietary supplements to improve cognitive functions and prevent their decline [1]
The diet provides trace elements, including iodine, iron, zinc, magnesium, B vitamins, and vitamins E and C, which play the role of cofactors in key enzymatic processes
Inadequate intake of micronutrients in adulthood leads to deficiencies, and in case of long-term insufficient supply of a given ingredient, it may lead to the development of many diseases or deterioration of well-being
Summary
The increasingly frequent incidence of neurodegenerative diseases and the lack of an effective method for their treatment have resulted in an increased interest in dietary supplements to improve cognitive functions and prevent their decline [1]. A micronutrient deficit can lead to a decrease in cognitive abilities, which deteriorate with age. The elderly and young and middle-aged people are exposed to micronutrient deficiencies due to their demanding lifestyles and insufficient diets [2]. The genesis of e-tournaments was in the 1970s, the first professional competition started in 1997 [3]. This discipline is becoming more and more popular among players and viewers [4]. Esports has been considered a sport since 2003 in China, but in the USA, players have official status as athletes [6]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
