A healthy and successful weight loss journey always comprises a balanced mix of exercise and a healthy diet. Work out regularly to burn excess fat and eat foods that speed up the process - the logic is simple. What also matters is what you eat right before and after your workout; yes, that's true. There are certain foods that help you have a good workout session if consumed right before it. You may have heard how protein-rich foods, bananas, nuts and other such foods are helpful if consumed before going for a run or hitting the gym. But did you know a simple food like salt could also be beneficial as a pre-workout food?
Having as little as just a pinch of salt can add vigour to your workout. Don't believe us? Nutritionist Nidhi Nigam explains how. In a post on her Instagram page 'nutrify.with.nidhi', Nidhi Nigam explained the benefits of having salt before a workout. Read on.
(Also Read: 10 Pre and Post Workout Snack Recipes)
Here're 10 Ways Salt Boosts Exercise For Weight Loss:
1. Improves Hydration:
Salt helps in water retention, so you won't be dehydrated during a strenuous exercise session.
2. Lowers Heart Rate:
Since salt is credited for improving blood flow in the body, it would really help you to wade through your gym session.
3. Prevents Muscle Cramps:
Again, due to improved blood flow, there will be lesser chances of muscle cramps and joint pains during and after workouts.
4. Increases Power Output:
Salt helps give easy access to the energy reserves in the body, which is required during a power-packed workout.
5. Replaces Lost Electrolytes:
The increase in water retention due to the consumption of salt helps the body replace its lost electrolytes.
6. Decreases Core Body Temperature:
It happens due to water retention in the body, and improved blood flow. Maintain optimal body temperature amid all that sweating.
7. Lowers Perceived Exertion:
Salt helps lower heart rate due to which, the body exerts less, and that results in better energy output during exercise.
8. Increases Endurance:
As stated above, the body shall exert less due to salt in the system, so the endurance of the body to take rigorous exercise routine should be higher.
9. Increases Cardiac Output:
This happens again due to the increased blood flow.
10. Reduces Blood Volume Drop:
If the blood flow rate is high along with endurance level, blood volume drops, which is an added advantage during workouts.
(Also Read: Is Peanut Butter An Ideal Pre-Workout Snack To Fuel Your Workout - Expert Reveals)
Salt is one of the most common ingredients in our diet.
Would you like to try this salt trick to enhance your workout? But always remember that excess of any food, including salt, can be harmful to health. So, how much salt is too much salt? Read all about it here.