Taking a look at the side of most pre-workout supplement labels may feel like a crash course in advanced chemistry. From synthetic caffeine to artificial colors and sweeteners, most commercial pre-workout supplements may not be the best option if you’re striving to lead a no-filler lifestyle.
Lucky for you, there are a variety of natural foods and supplements available that will help you achieve that boost you need before the workout. Let’s take a look at the best all natural ingredients to take pre-workout.
Best All-Natural Ingredients for Pre-Workout
GINSENG
Available in powder, capsule, and tincture, Ginseng, particularly Panax Ginseng, is a remarkable health booster. Discovered and utilized since ancient times in China, Ginseng has made its way to North America, where it is grown as well. It is used to lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels, treat stress and depression, and improve libido in men. When it comes to you getting that energy increase for your workout, Ginseng may be a terrific natural option. As demonstrated in this study from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, supplementing with Ginseng was shown to help athletic performance.
COFFEE OR TEA
If caffeine is a necessity for you to get up and get going then choose an inexpensive, all natural source such as coffee or tea. Caffeine from coffee has been associated with a variety of health benefits, as demonstrated in this study published in Nutrition Bulletin, including enhanced memory, improved mood, and amplified alertness. Most importantly, coffee can boost energy levels, thereby, improving your athletic performance. Green or black tea is also a terrific option with the added bonus of antioxidants.
APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
Apple Cider Vinegar, or ACV, is a raw and natural marvel for your body. Aside from being packed with helpful pro-biotics, which help to regular digestion and utilization of nutrients, this wonder drink also contains a plethora of vitamins and minerals. A great way to boost your electrolytes, ACV also helps improve energy levels before a workout as discussed in this article from Health Ambition. A great bonus of ACV is its detoxification properties, which can help to alleviate muscle soreness. Try mixing it with water, honey and cinnamon as a pre-workout drink.