Changing what you drink might help during long gaming sessions. A new study from the University of Tsukuba in Japan found that sparkling water could help gamers stay more alert and feel less tired than plain still water during long play periods.
How Sparkling Water Stacks Up Against Still Water
For the study, researchers observed 14 casual esports gamers during two separate gaming sessions. Each participant played a virtual soccer game for three hours.
- During one session, they drank plain water.
- In the other session, they drank sparkling water.
During the experiment, researchers looked at several signs of performance and tiredness, including:
- Reaction times
- Pupil size (a sign of mental fatigue)
- Physical stress levels
- Self-reported tiredness
The results showed that those who drank sparkling water kept their focus better and felt less tired compared to when they drank still water.
Gamers said they enjoyed the sparkling water sessions more, and tests showed they focused better. The study also found they made fewer mistakes in the game, which suggests they were more attentive while playing.
Interestingly, the researchers found no major differences in heart rate, blood glucose, or cortisol levels between the two types of drinks.
Scientists believe the carbon dioxide bubbles in sparkling water could be the reason.
The bubbles in sparkling water can activate sensory receptors in the mouth called TRP channels, which might help the brain stay alert. Although the study didn’t test this directly, this idea could explain why sparkling water seemed to boost focus.
A Healthier Alternative to Energy Drinks?
Many gamers use coffee or energy drinks to stay awake during long sessions. But these drinks have high levels of caffeine and sugar, which can be harmful if consumed often.
Sparkling water provides a caffeine-free option that might still help you stay focused during activities that need long attention.
Important Limitations to Remember
While the results look promising, the researchers warn that the study has some limitations.
- The study included only 14 participants, which is a small sample size.
- It also didn’t compare sparkling water to coffee or energy drinks.
- Some of the research funding came from a company that makes sparkling water, and two of the authors work for that company.
However, the researchers said the funding did not affect the study design, data collection, or analysis.
What This Might Mean Beyond Gaming
Although the study focused on esports, the results could apply to other activities that require long periods of concentration, such as:
- Studying
- Office work
- Long-distance driving
Future studies might look at how sparkling water affects thinking skills in more people and compare it directly with other popular drinks.
For now, the research suggests that a glass of sparkling water might be a simple and effective way to stay refreshed and focused during long tasks.
