The honey and salt pre-workout trend is gaining traction, with nutritionists endorsing the combination for its potential to enhance energy levels during exercise.
The key to an effective workout may be found in your kitchen cabinet. A viral trend circulating on social media suggests that consuming a spoonful of honey and salt before exercising can provide a significant energy boost. Proponents of this combination claim it mimics the effects of traditional pre-workout supplements, which are designed to enhance physical performance and energy levels during workouts.
Creators and influencers on platforms like TikTok have been sharing videos of themselves preparing this mixture, often pouring honey onto a spoon or the back of their hand, followed by a sprinkle of salt. Many users prefer natural versions of both ingredients, emphasizing their health benefits. In an interview with Fox News Digital, certified holistic nutritionist Robin DeCicco confirmed that this approach “does make sense” as a pre-workout strategy.
According to DeCicco, the combination of honey and salt mixes a “rapidly digesting carbohydrate” with sodium, both of which can be advantageous for an effective workout. “It’s usually suggested to eat a snack of carbohydrates—often combined with some protein or healthy fats—before a workout to help increase sustained energy and muscle rebuilding,” she explained. “Using honey as the carbohydrate or sugar source fits into this recommendation.” DeCicco noted that alternatives like applesauce or fruit juice could serve a similar purpose.
The popularity of this trend may stem from honey’s quick digestion into the bloodstream, allowing for a rapid energy boost. However, DeCicco does not recommend relying solely on honey and salt before exercising. Instead, she suggests incorporating a more substantial snack, such as whole-grain crackers with tuna or a banana with peanut butter, to provide longer-lasting energy. “These types of snacks will work to provide energy throughout the entire workout,” she said. “They can be consumed one to two hours before exercising, with the honey and salt taken right before.”
DeCicco also emphasizes the importance of hydration, advising her clients to drink electrolytes before, during, and after workouts to prevent dehydration, particularly during intense sessions. “Someone could also put a pinch of sea salt into water mixed with coconut water or fruit juice to achieve similar benefits as honey, minus the antioxidants found in honey,” she added.
As this trend continues to gain traction, it highlights the growing interest in natural alternatives to traditional workout supplements. Whether you choose to try the honey and salt combination or stick with more conventional pre-workout snacks, the key is to find what works best for your body and exercise routine.
Source: Original article