Rohit Bose Roy has been sharing much about his diet and fitness on the Unstoppable podcast. After revealing that he has become vegetarian, Roy said his “go-to” brew is black coffee. “There is a myth about black coffee being bad for health; it is not. Before going to the gym, I put a little bit of salt in my black coffee, and I take it in my mug. It fuels my power. I don’t believe in pre and post-workouts,” said Roy in a conversation with actor Barkha Bisht and model Ankita Kukreti.
Let’s take a cue from his revelation to understand how this combination helps.
Experts suggest coffee, mainly due to its caffeine content, can enhance metabolism and increase the body’s rate of burning fat. It can also improve exercise performance and endurance, which might aid in weight management. On the other hand, salt helps maintain electrolyte balance in the body.
Renuka Dang, dietician, Rainbow Hospital, Agra, concurred and reiterated that black coffee with a pinch of salt can be an effective pre-workout beverage, as it combines caffeine’s stimulating effects with the benefits of sodium, both of which support endurance and focus.
“Caffeine helps increase energy levels and mental sharpness, which can enhance performance during a workout. Additionally, salt not only balances the bitterness of coffee but also serves an essential function in maintaining electrolyte balance, helping to prevent cramps and promote sustained energy. This combination can lead to a longer, more intense workout,” said Dang.
The salt when added to the caffeine significantly helps in regaining fluid and hydration in the most to avoid dehydration. This leads to your workouts being more helpful and causes less fatigue, said
Eshanka Wahi, culinary nutritionist and holistic wellness coach and founder, Eat Clean With Eshanka.
Why have black coffee? (Source: Freepik)
What to note?
However, moderation is key. Caffeine in general, when consumed too much can increase the heart rate a lot, give you jitters and cause dehydration in the body, Wahi said. “Another thing that one should keep in mind is that, while adding salt to your coffee it is always better that you Himalayan pink salt or sea salt for the sake of minerals,” said Wahi.
Dang said it’s best to consume coffee 45-60 minutes before exercise, allowing the caffeine to fully activate.
The recommended amount of caffeine varies by body weight, with guidelines from the International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN) suggesting 0.9-2.7 mg per pound.
“Additionally, individuals sensitive to caffeine or salt should consult with a healthcare provider to tailor their intake. This blend can benefit many, but personal health needs should always guide dietary choices,” urged Dang.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
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