5 innovative esports and gamer ingredient trends that Super Mario would love

Esports continues to be a burgeoning area of opportunity for dietary supplement brands, as esports participants and high-level individual gamers are increasingly seeking ways to improve aspects of their health to enhance gaming performance and endurance. 

According to a recent industry report, the global esports market was valued at just over $1.38 billion in 2022. Additionally, the esports industry’s global market revenue was forecast to rise to as much as $1.87 billion in 2025. 

As the overall esports market continues to progress, dietary supplement brands have been carving an innovative niche within the space to develop and position nutritional products aiming to support the primary health needs most associated with professional and high-level gaming. These health benefit targets include support for stress and anxiety reduction, sustained energy, vision health, and cognitive functions such as focus and mental clarity. 

In order for brands to differentiate themselves, they can consider a number of innovative ingredients and product development trends, as well as important marketing and brand positioning elements. 

Innovation and ingredient trends 

For brands developing and formulating supplement products designed to support the range of health needs of professional esports participants and high-level gamers, a number of excellent ingredients can help products stand out in this niche category. These trends highlight the importance of a holistic approach to supplement new product development, addressing the multifaceted needs of esports athletes for optimal performance and well-being to help gamers perform at their best and maintain their health over time. 

Related:Finding the flow in your esports formulations – digital magazine

Cognitive enhancement 

To help meet the high cognitive demands of gaming, a strong focus is on products that boost mental clarity, memory, reaction speed and focus. Nootropics and other brain-boosting ingredients such as alpha-GPC (glycerylphosphorylcholine), Bacopa monnieri and lion’s mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) are some of the most often used supplements to support these cognitive functions. Other important ingredient staples are uridine monophosphate, phosphatidylserine (PS) and Ginkgo biloba. 

Additionally, ingredients that stimulate brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), like 7,8-dihydroxyflavone, are gaining popularity. BDNF is crucial for neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt and grow, which is paramount for learning and memory. BDNF plays a critical role in supporting the growth, maintenance and survival of neurons. It enhances synaptic plasticity, which is critical for learning and memory formation. High BDNF levels are associated with improved cognitive functions and overall brain health. This support is indispensable for the mental demands placed on gamers, who need strong cognitive function to excel in areas such as visuospatial skills, spatial orientation, memory, strategic planning and fine motor skills. 

Related:Best-in-class gamer ingredients

Stress and anxiety reduction 

Supplements that help manage stress and promote mental well-being are gaining traction in supporting the mood and mental health needs of gaming participants. Innovative and theoretical ingredients are being explored to offer unique benefits. Some novel ingredients include: (gamma-aminobutyric acid), mucuna extract, 5-HTP (hydroxytryptophan), agmatine and L-tyrosine for neurotransmitter support; B vitamins, magnesium, choline and inositol for nervous system health; and nonpsychoactive cannabinoids like CBD and specific terpenes such as limonene and beta-caryophyllene. 

To read about the remaining three health states that are receiving consumer acclaim in the couch-and-competitive gaming set, click here to download the free SupplySide Supplement Journal digital magazine — your toolbox for better business.