Honey, an unexpected ally for bodybuilding

Bodybuilding honey is a subject that not many people think about. Yet it is a real treasure trove for athletes. In this article, we'll look at why and how to incorporate honey into your bodybuilding programme.

Bodybuilding honey is a subject that not many people think about. Yet it is a real treasure trove for athletes. In this article, we'll look at why and how to incorporate honey into your bodybuilding programme.

The benefits of honey for bodybuilding

You may be wondering what the link is between honey and bodybuilding. There are several reasons why the two go hand in hand:

• High energy intake: honey is a very rich source of carbohydrates: fructose, glucose and sucrose, which help to provide the energy our bodies need to function properly, particularly during intensive exercise sessions such as bodybuilding.
• Natural anti-inflammatory properties: intensive weight training puts a lot of strain on the muscles, leading to micro-trauma and inflammation. Consuming honey helps to limit these harmful effects by reducing inflammation.
• Better recovery: thanks to its composition, honey also promotes good recovery after sustained effort, helping to avoid the muscle fatigue that often affects body-builders.

How can you incorporate honey into your bodybuilding programme?

Now that you're convinced of the benefits associated with honey for bodybuilding, it's time to find out how to make the most of it on a daily basis.

During training

During a session, the muscles involved depend mainly on the energy provided by carbohydrates. It is therefore advisable to include honey during your workout to support this energy intake, either in the form of a drink or directly from a spoon.

Make a homemade energy drink: simply mix two tablespoons of honey with a litre of water and the juice of a lemon. This will give you a regular energy boost while benefiting from the anti-inflammatory properties of honey.

Take a small spoonful of honey every 30 minutes or so during exercise. This will also help maintain a good level of energy without affecting your digestion.

After training

The recovery phase is essential to avoid injury and improve physical performance. Here are a few alternatives to take advantage of the benefits of honey:

Incorporate honey into your post-training meal: add it to your oatmeal, make yourself a smoothie based on almond milk and fresh fruit (banana, kiwi, etc.) with a spoonful of honey to help you recover.

Opt for a honey mask: its soothing action calms skin irritated by physical exercise. Simply apply a thin layer of honey to the face, avoiding the eye area, leave on for 10 minutes and rinse off with clean water.

The different types of honey and how to use them

Among the many varieties of honey on the market, some are particularly suitable for bodybuilding:

• Acacia honey: this is a very sweet honey, renowned for its high fructose content. It's perfect for incorporating into your energy drinks or consuming as is during training.
• Thyme honey: this honey has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory qualities, which not only help relieve joint pain but also aid recovery after exercise. It can be eaten directly or mixed with plain yoghurt for a post-training snack.
• Chestnut honey: rich in minerals and trace elements such as magnesium and potassium, it helps to keep muscles working properly and prevent cramps. Take it as a course of treatment in the form of a dietary supplement or add it to your meals.

All in all, there's no denying that honey can be a valuable ally in your bodybuilding efforts, provided you use it in moderation and with discretion. Its energising, anti-inflammatory and recuperative properties will give a real boost to your sporting performance.