Sea Salt

What Does Sea Salt Do?

Sea salt is a fundamental performance ingredient that provides essential electrolytes, primarily sodium, which are the backbone of cellular hydration and muscular function. Unlike table salt, sea salt often contains trace minerals like magnesium and potassium that assist in maintaining the delicate electrical balance required for peak physical output.

• Enhanced Muscle Pumps: Sodium is highly osmotic, meaning it draws water into the bloodstream and muscle cells. This increases plasma volume, leading to better vascularity and a more pronounced "pump" during your sets.
• Optimized Nerve Conduction: Your nervous system relies on sodium-potassium pumps to send electrical signals. Adequate sea salt ensures that the communication between your brain and your muscle fibers remains fast and efficient.
• Improved Endurance: By maintaining fluid balance, sea salt helps prevent the drop in blood volume that typically leads to early fatigue and increased heart rate during high-intensity training.
• Cramp Prevention: Replacing the sodium lost through sweat is the most effective way to prevent the involuntary muscle contractions and cramping that can derail a heavy leg day.

Clinical vs. Gym Bro Dosing

Key Insight: While the clinical recommendation is 500mg, your specific needs depend on your sweat rate. If you finish your workout with salt streaks on your skin or clothes, you are a "salty sweater" and should aim for the higher end of the Performance tier to avoid a mid-workout crash.

Side Effects & Warnings

• Water Retention: High sodium intake can cause your body to hold extra water, which may lead to temporary bloating or a slightly less "dry" look in the mirror.
• Digestive Upset: Consuming high doses of salt on an empty stomach can cause osmotic pressure in the gut, potentially leading to nausea or a sudden trip to the bathroom.
• Blood Pressure Spikes: If you have pre-existing hypertension or sodium sensitivity, you should consult a physician before adding supplemental sea salt to your regimen.

Tip: Always consume sea salt with at least 16-20 ounces of water. Sodium requires adequate fluid to move into the cells; without enough water, you risk dehydrating your tissues rather than hydrating them.