If you are in need of a simple pre-workout energy boost, TikTok users are raving about the effectiveness of consuming honey and salt before exercise. Honey is a simple carbohydrate that is quickly digested and absorbed into the bloodstream, providing a quick energy boost for endurance activities like running or cycling. Consuming 15-30 grams of carbs 30 to 60 minutes before a workout is recommended, with one to two tablespoons of honey falling within this range. Salt, on the other hand, replaces the sodium lost through sweat and enhances water absorption, making it crucial for longer workouts or exercise in hot environments.
To try honey and salt as a pre-workout boost, simply consume 1-2 tablespoons of honey with a few shakes of salt between 30 and 60 minutes before your workout. However, it’s important to be mindful of potential side effects of consuming these ingredients. Honey is high in sugar, with one tablespoon containing 17 grams of sugar. Excessive caloric intake and weight gain can result from consuming more sugar than necessary. Similarly, salt intake should be monitored, as overloading on sodium can lead to high blood pressure over time.
While honey and salt can be beneficial for endurance workouts, there are other natural food options that can give your workout a boost without the risk of excessive sugar or sodium intake. Instead of honey, you can try consuming maple syrup, dried fruits, white bread, bananas, or granola bars for a quick energy source. To increase your sodium intake, pickles, pretzels, crackers, and popcorn are good options to consider before a workout. It’s important to experiment with different food options to find what works best for your body and exercise routine.
