The article dispels the myths about the benefits and dangers of salt in sports and everyday life. You will learn more about this by reading this interesting and informative article to the end. For those who have devoted themselves to strength sports, in particular, bodybuilding, table salt, or as it is also called, sodium chloride, will be an excellent assistant for building a relief body. Despite the fact that it is considered a white poison when consumed in excessive quantities, it is salt in bodybuilding that helps bodybuilders to create beautiful, textured muscle shape. Regardless of whether you are a beginner in sports or a professional, it is worth getting to know this active assistant, whose role in sports is quite impressive.
What is salt
This is an electrolyte, the charge of which is very small. Thanks to salt, it is possible to preserve food for longer, since an environment is created that is unfavorable for the reproduction of microorganisms. Salt helps remove water from cells, making them dehydrated. In the body, with its help, the water-salt balance is under strict control. It is an excellent regulator of not only blood volume, but also pressure.
Types of salt and their properties
- Cookery. It is a pure natural crystalline sodium chloride, which consists of a smaller part of sodium and most of chlorine. All useful compounds are destroyed during production.
- Iodized. A certain amount of iodine-containing salts is added to this salt. We are talking about iodide or potassium iodate.
- Marine. In addition to sodium chloride, it contains a whole range of biologically active micro- and macronutrients. Their ratio is optimal. Such salt is obtained by evaporating sea water in the sun. All the usefulness does not disappear. This salt enhances epidermal cell division and can be used to accelerate the generation of the skin integument.
The effect of salt on the body
- Thanks to salt, nutrients are better absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Bones are strengthened.
- Salt in bodybuilding maintains libido at a normal level.
- Acid-base balance is guaranteed.
- The connections between nerves and muscles are regulated, the latter contract.
- It is an unrivaled helper to regulate ATP hydrolysis in skeletal muscle.
- Salt in bodybuilding reduces the risk of muscle cramps associated with dehydration.
- Salt helps glucose to be readily absorbed by cells.
- Salt in bodybuilding removes fatigue toxins.
- An excellent hypnotic that strengthens sleep.
There are many sodium-dependent functions in the body. In order for them to proceed normally, the presence of this mineral is necessary. If the sodium content is insufficient, it will not be possible to achieve effective mass building. Therefore, salt in bodybuilding is an indispensable component.
Sodium is a positively charged ion in the extracellular fluid. As for potassium, it is also an ion, with a plus sign. It is found in the intracellular fluid. With its help, it is possible to regulate intramuscular fluid levels. The same applies to neuromuscular functions and the activity of ATP hydrolysis. These minerals are similar in their actions. The difference lies in the regulation of extracellular fluid.
Sodium is a companion of potassium; without the first, the second will not be able to enter the cell. Salt affects subcutaneous water retention. Potassium, on the other hand, affects the fluids that are found in muscle cells. These two minerals are constantly trying to balance each other.
By reducing salt intake, the body compensates by retaining a lot of sodium and releasing potassium. At the same time, the level of fluid in the muscle cell decreases. After the sodium increases, the body compensates for the condition by retaining a lot of potassium. This increases the release of sodium.
By balancing sodium and potassium, it becomes possible to have an impressive effect on muscle strength. The same goes for the processes of anabolism. In muscle cells, there is a clear increase in cellular fluid. As a result, the muscle tissue responds to this process.
The effects of salt on muscles are quite impressive. So sodium makes them bigger. It's all about increasing the volume of fluid in the muscle cells.
As for the fluid outside the cells, there is a noticeable effective effect on muscle strength, as well as the ability to withstand impressive loads. Muscle tension becomes less, providing maximum protection against soft tissue injury. The same goes for the connecting ones.
Dosage of salt in bodybuilding
In order for salt to enter the body correctly, it must be dissolved by means of moisture from vegetables and fruits. The non-ionized form, entering the body, cannot be properly absorbed, as a result of which you will be tormented by thirst. Stir a little salt in water (you literally need a little water), and then pour liquid over the treats before you eat them.
Add a little salt to the water you are going to drink and alkaline properties are generated. The body will have enough useful minerals. The same goes for trace elements.
If we talk about dosage, then salt in bodybuilding is used from four to five grams per day. The maximum dose for an adult is a teaspoon. For the representatives of beauty, due to a reduced metabolism and a lower level of sweating, salt is needed in a lower dosage: 2-3 grams will be quite enough. Salt is also included in everyday products, and the amount here may vary. Keep this in mind so as not to overdo your sodium intake.
Salt and sports
Salt in bodybuilding for experienced athletes, as well as those whose workouts are far from amateur, the need for salt is different. The rule of thumb to follow is two grams of sodium for every liter of water change.
Professional athletes want to look their best when posing on stage. In order to win and take first places in the competition, they try to do everything possible to look as bold and dry as possible. For this, various manipulations are carried out, which include salt and water. The same goes for carbohydrates.
