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Special Nutritional Considerations for Female and Special Populations in Esports

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Esports Nutrition

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Abstract

Competitive esports require cognitive performance, rapid reaction, and physical endurance, which makes nutrition a crucial factor. Cognitive performance has been correlated with the intake of nutrients such as magnesium, zinc, selenium, and vitamins B6 and B12. Calcium and vitamin D deficiencies have also been linked to myotonic headaches, a common issue among female esports athletes (e-athletes). Additionally, the general esports community has a low vegetable intake, which leads to nutrient deficiencies. To optimize performance, a diet rich in dairy products, seafood, and balanced macronutrients is recommended over excessive reliance on energy drinks.

Women have unique hormonal profiles that influence energy metabolism, insulin sensitivity, immune responses, and muscle composition. Female esports athletes must balance their energy intake to avoid low energy availability (LEA), which can lead to menstrual irregularities, osteoporosis, and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Inadequate carbohydrate intake can impair cognitive function and muscle composition, while excessive intake may lead to blood sugar spikes and fatigue.

To prevent LEA and its associated risks, female esports athletes should maintain adequate energy intake, consume sufficient protein, and ensure proper nutrition. Addressing these challenges requires further research dedicated to female esports athletes to enhance their performance and overall well-being.

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Abbreviations

DHA:

Docosahexaenoic acid

EA:

Energy availability

EPA:

Eicosapentaenoic acid

FAT:

Female athlete triad

FSH:

Follicle stimulating hormone

LEA:

Low energy availability

LH:

Luteinizing hormone

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Acknowledgments

We would like to thank Editage (www.editage.jp) for English language editing.

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  1. University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan

    Jun Seino

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  1. Jun Seino
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Correspondence to Jun Seino .

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  1. Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Science, Bandirma Onyedi Eylul University, Balikesir, Türkiye

    Sedat Arslan

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Seino, J. (2025). Special Nutritional Considerations for Female and Special Populations in Esports. In: Arslan, S. (eds) Esports Nutrition. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-99625-2_8

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