In the competitive e-gaming world, players experience intense stress that can negatively affect performance, focus, and overall health. Stress manifests from long hours of play, intense focus, and the high stakes of winning or losing. While moderate stress can drive motivation, chronic stress can hinder reaction times, decision-making abilities, and overall cognitive function. Fortunately, natural ingredients and supplements can help e-gamers manage stress, improve performance, and maintain health.
The Impact of Stress on E-Gamers
According to research, high cortisol levels impair memory retention and reduce the ability to make quick decisions, which are critical in gaming. As cortisol levels rise, heart rate increases, and physical signs of stress—such as sweating or muscle tension—can occur, making it harder to maintain steady hands or focus on the game.
Stress control is not just an option but necessary for any serious e-gamers supplement program. Physical and mental stress levels can be exceptionally high during intense gaming sessions. We are well aware that prolonged stress can lead to serious health challenges, such as cardiovascular disease, blood sugar problems, and even obesity. Therefore, taking control of stress is not just important but a responsibility. Even during off-competition periods, managing stress’s impact on the body is crucial for the next gaming session.
Creating a Balanced Approach to Gaming and Stress Management
In addition to incorporating stress-reducing supplements, e-gamers should also adopt holistic strategies to manage stress effectively. These include:
- Regular Breaks: Taking scheduled breaks during gaming sessions can reduce eye strain, improve posture, and allow the brain to reset, minimizing stress.
- Hydration: Proper hydration helps regulate cortisol levels and keeps the body functioning efficiently during long hours of play.
- Exercise: Physical activity is a natural stress reliever. Exercise promotes the release of endorphins, which help reduce stress hormones and improve mood.
- Supplements: See Below
Supplements for Stress
Dietary supplements should play an essential role for e-gamers. Below are a few of my favorites and why they should all be considered part of a daily e-gamer’s routine. Since you don’t want to get drowsy while playing, this narrows the field for what supplements work best for stress. It is for this reason I default to my favorite stress category of supplements:
Ashwagandha (as Sensoril® from Natreon/Kerry or as KSM-66® from KSM-66®)—Ashwagandha, the “king of adaptogens,” offers hope. It aids the body in adapting to physical or emotional stress. Research has shown that ashwagandha can significantly reduce stress and positively impact the stress hormone cortisol, providing a promising solution for e-gamers.
Holy Basil (as Holixer® from Natural Remedies) — Holy basil is also an adaptogen. A study completed with Holixer® showed improvements in hair cortisol levels (chronic stress indicator), perceived stress, and acute stress.
Saffron (as affron® from Pharmactive Biotech)— affron®’s mechanism towards stress involves the neurotransmitters impacting stress by inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. Studies with affron® show it increases mood, reduces anxiety, and effectively manages stress, providing e-gamers with a sense of reassurance and confidence in their performance.