Written by Tyler DiGiovanni | BSBM
Fact checked by Andrew Lenau, ISSA CPT & Sports Nutritionist
FACT CHECKED
When you hit the gym, what’s your pre-game? A commercial energy drink or something au naturel? Let’s chat about a combo you might not have considered but could very well be your next workout game-changer: honey and salt.
Why Honey?
Forget your overpriced pre-workouts for a second. Honey is nature's fuel pump. It’s crammed with simple sugars like glucose and fructose, plus it throws in some proteins, enzymes, and vitamins to keep things interesting. Studies, like one from the Strength and Conditioning Journal, show that honey can keep up with glucose in fueling athletes through the grind. It doesn’t just dump energy into your system; it’s a smooth release, perfect for keeping you powered without crashing.¹
And Salt?
Now, salt doesn't just make things taste better; it keeps you going. It’s all about sodium chloride, which keeps your hydration in check and ensures your muscles and nerves are firing on all cylinders. Ever heard of sodium supplementation? Well, researchers in the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports suggest it can actually help you regulate body heat and keep you performing at your peak, especially during endurance tests.²
Mixing Honey and Salt
Imagine combining the smooth energy release of honey with the hydration power of salt. Sounds like a homemade pre-workout nirvana, right? Mix a tablespoon of honey with a pinch of salt in some warm water and knock it back about 30 minutes before your workout. This isn’t just about taste—it’s about prepping your body to perform and keep up without bailing out too soon.
Why It’s Worth a Shot
- Sustained Energy: Honey provides a steady supply of energy, potentially improving endurance.
- Electrolyte Balance: Salt helps replenish lost sodium and maintains fluid balance.
- Natural Ingredients: For those preferring natural supplements, honey and salt are easily accessible and contain no artificial components.
Don't Trash Your Pre-Workout Yet
It's important to consider that while honey can provide immediate energy, its effectiveness, compared to commercial energy gels or drinks, requires more direct comparative research. Furthermore, salt intake needs to be moderated; excessive consumption can lead to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues, particularly in salt-sensitive individuals.
In case you are searching for a new pre-workout, you can check out a list of our favorites here.
Bottom Line
Mixing honey and salt could be a solid move for your pre-workout routine. They've got the science backing them individually, but as a team, they’re kind of new to the scene. Before you dive in, think about what your body needs and maybe have a word with your doc to make sure you’re good to go. This combo could be the all-natural boost you’ve been looking for, so why not give it a whirl? And hey, it’s natural, accessible, and won't break the bank.
References
- Kreider, Richard B., et al. “Honey: An Alternative Sports Gel.” Strength & Conditioning Journal, vol. 24, no. 1, 1 Feb. 2002, p. 50, journals.lww.com/nsca-scj/citation/2002/02000/honey__an_alternative_sports_gel.15.aspx
- SUNDBERG, C. J., et al. “Effects of Ischaemic Training on Local Aerobic Muscle Performance in Man.” Acta Physiologica Scandinavica, vol. 148, no. 1, May 1993, pp. 13–19, https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1748-1716.1993.tb09526.x.
Tyler DiGiovanni
Author