Fizz, Not Sugar: Sparkling Water May Sharpen Esports Focus

A University of Tsukuba study finds unsweetened, highly carbonated water during three-hour esports sessions helps players maintain mental focus and reduce cognitive fatigue compared with plain water, boosting executive function and enjoyment while also reducing fouls. The effect is achieved without sugar or caffeine, likely via the throat sensation that stimulates brainstem-to-prefrontal pathways, and heart rate and glucose levels remained unchanged.