Choosing a pre-workout complex without artificial sweeteners may be beneficial for several reasons. Firstly, some people may have sensitivities or allergies to certain artificial sweeteners, which can cause digestive issues or other adverse reactions. By opting for a pre-workout supplement without artificial sweeteners, these individuals can avoid such problems and still enjoy the benefits of the supplement.
Secondly, some people prefer to avoid artificial sweeteners altogether, as they may have concerns about the potential long-term health effects of consuming these additives. While there is ongoing debate about the safety of artificial sweeteners, choosing a pre-workout complex without them can provide peace of mind for those who prefer a more natural approach to nutrition.
Finally, pre-workout supplements that do not contain artificial sweeteners may be less likely to have artificial aftertaste. This can make the supplement more pleasant to drink and easier to incorporate into a pre-workout routine.
2. Kaged Sport Pre Workout - Runner Up
- Item Form: Powder
- Diet Type (best for): Focus, Enhanced “Pumping” Effect, Muscular Endurance
- Flavor: Mango Lime, Blue Raspberry, Glacier Grape, Fruit punch, Watermelon
- Caffeine: 188mg
- Special Ingredients: Vitamin B12, Magnesium, L-Citrulline, Beta-Alanine, Betaine Anhydrous, Coconut Fruit Water Powder
- Package Information: 266g (20 servings)
- Serving: 13.3g
- Company Founded: 2015
- Recommended by Athletes: Andrea Somer, Colt Nichols, Kris Gethin
Our runner up for the best pre workout without artificial sweeteners is Kaged Sport’s pre workout. Promising a clean formula that’s been scientifically tested to maximize results. Kaged’s formula boasts the perfect balance of energy, endurance, hydration, focus, and power, which will work together to boost athletic performance.
Photo by @thorn_krieg
At 188mg of caffeine per serving, it is one of the more stimulant heavy options on our list, however, this is still a reasonable dose compared to some other options out there with well over 300mg per serving. Its combination of L-Tyrosine and organic caffeine promises a clean boost of stimulation without going overboard. This is also one of the few pre workouts that simultaneously acts as a hydration supplement. Including key electrolytes like sodium and magnesium, Kaged will help keep your fluids balanced during tough workouts.
At 20 servings per container, it is one of the smaller package sizes on our list, however, Kaged does come at a reasonable price per serving, making it a great option for those looking to just try a pre workout.
38Expert Score
Kaged Sport's pre workout is a scientifically tested supplement promising a clean formula to boost athletic performance with the perfect balance of energy, endurance, hydration, focus, and power.
Stimulation:
10
Taste/Flavor:
9
Nutrition Label Transparency:
10
Price/ Quality:
9
Positives:
Affordable price
Effective dose of caffeine with no jitters or crash
Acts as a hydration supplement, beneficial for long workouts
Could be better:
Relatively small package size
Drink is too foamy when mixed
- Item Form: Powder
- Diet Type (best for): Focus, High-Intensity Exercise Performance, Training Volume, Enhanced “Pumping” Effect
- Flavor: Fruit Blast, Frozen Lemonade, Pina Colada
- Caffeine: 150 mg
- Special Ingredients: Creatine Monohydrate, Citrulline Malate, L-theanine, Rhodiola Rosea
- Package Information: 300g (30 servings)
- Serving: 10g
- Company Founded: No Info
- Recommended by Athletes: Alana Rany
Next great pre workout from 4 GAUGE. With no artificial sweeteners, it’s a great choice for those looking to avoid such substances in the supplements they’re taking. The delicious taste of 4 GAUGE is delivered through the use of natural flavors, dextrose, and the no-calorie sweetener stevia.
At 150mg of caffeine per serving combined with the amino acid l-theanine, 4 GAUGE Pre-Workout is in the sweet spot of stimulation, providing a solid hit of energy without significant jitters or crash. L-theanine has been shown to reduce the negative side effects of caffeine, such as jitters and anxiety. Combining caffeine with l-theanine has also been shown to provide extended energy and endurance, which can be beneficial during physical activity or long periods of work.
You want pre-workout without that feeling like ants are crawling all over your skin? 4 GAUGE creates a non itchy pre workout. For boosting athletic performance they add 6000 mg citrulline, 1000 mg creatine monohydrate, and 500 mg carnitine, rhodiola and red beetroot extracts. This smart mix avoids any harmful side effects, all while not compromising on its effectiveness.
37.5Expert Score
4 GAUGE is a natural flavored pre workout supplement designed to boost athletic performance with extended energy and endurance, free of artificial sweeteners and harmful side effects.
Stimulation:
9
Taste/Flavor:
10
Nutrition Label Transparency:
10
Price/ Quality:
8,5
Positives:
No jitters or crash, caffeine balanced with l-theanine
Non itchy without effectiveness compromises
Great for enhanced “pumping”
Cool shotgun shell for those who appreciate style
Could be better:
Only 3 flavors
Higher cost per serving
- Item Form: Powder
- Best For: Focus, Overall Exercise Performance, Muscular Endurance, Reducing Fatigue, Training Volume
- Flavor: Unflavored, Fruit Punch, Citrus
- Caffeine: 200mg
- Special Ingredients: Beta-Alanine, Creatine Monohydrate, Vitamins B
- Package Information: 240-480g
- Serving: 4.8-16g
- Company Founded: 2014
- Recommended by Athletes: Kenzie Mariano, Daniel Victor
Next up on our list is Naked’s Pure Pre Workout Powder. Completely vegan with no added sugars, artificial sweeteners, or flavors, Naked Energy is a great choice for virtually everyone.
Photo by @lifewith.kob
At 200mg of caffeine per serving, it’s one of the highest stimulant options on our list, but the product description still promises a clean boost of energy that won’t make you feel “like you may have a heart attack.” There is also a stim-free option for those looking for the benefits of a pre workout without all the caffeine.
The supplement features only 10 ingredients, so you can be confident there are no extra fillers being added in. Naked Energy is designed to be a solid no-nonsense pre workout with effective doses of ingredients like beta-alanine, l-arginine, and multiple different vitamins.
One thing to note is that the supplement does feature creatine, but at a dose of 1g per serving, you will not receive the optimal benefits of creatine. The recommended dose of creatine is 5g per day, so if you’re interested in this supplement, we recommend taking it separately alongside Naked pre workout.
37Expert Score
Naked Energy is a clean energy no-nonsense pre workout supplement with 200mg caffeine per serving and 10 ingredients, including beta-alanine, l-arginine, and vitamins
Stimulation:
10
Taste/Flavor:
9
Nutrition Label Transparency:
9
Price/ Quality:
9
Positives:
High stimulation per serving
Relatively short ingredient list
Stim free option available
Could be better:
No diversity of flavors
Unflavored option has unpleasant taste
- Item Form: Powder
- Diet Type (best for): Endurance, Strength, Stamina, Focus
- Flavor: Lemon Berry, Passionfruit Guava
- Caffeine: 150mg
- Special Ingredients: Organic Maca Root, Organic Yerba Mate, Organic Matcha Green Tea, Organic Cordyceps Mushroom, Organic Rhodiola Extract, Organic Turmeric
- Package Information: 160mg (20 Servings)
- Serving: 8g
- Company Founded: 2015
- Recommended by Athletes: James Benefico, Bod Damn, Shayne Cerebe
Up next on our list is Organic Muscle’s Superfood Pre Workout, which is a fantastic choice for a naturally sweetened pre workout. What makes this pre workout unique is that nearly all of its ingredients are derived from organic whole foods. From maca root, and yerba mate, to cordyceps mushroom and rhodiola extract, Organic Muscle’s product offers plenty of different superfoods in one convenient package. In fact, this product boasts that it features 20 adaptogenic herbs and superfoods. Although the scientific evidence for the effects of such herbal ingredients on training is not numerous, it is a good choice for those who like to stay close to natural ingredients.
Photo by @quintellotm_
At 150mg of caffeine per serving, derived from several different organic ingredients, Organic Muscle promises a solid level of stimulation. Aside from being free of any artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, it also does not contain any hydrogenated oils, pesticide residues, or GMOs.
Keep in mind this is not a zero sugar option, as it is flavored with organic rice syrup. While many of the pre workouts on our list are zero calories, this one is 30 calories per serving. This is not something most people will be concerned about, however, at 6g of carbs per serving, it may not be the best choice for those on a keto diet.
36Expert Score
Organic Muscle’s Superfood Pre Workout is a naturally sweetened supplement with 20 adaptogenic herbs and superfoods derived from organic whole foods, making it a good choice for those who prefer natural ingredients.
Stimulation:
9
Taste/Flavor:
9
Nutrition Label Transparency:
9
Price/ Quality:
9
Positives:
Made up of 20 organic herbs and superfoods
Free from GMOs, pesticides, and other potentially harmful substances
Low risk of jitters, crash, or itchiness
Could be better:
Does not contain some of the ingredients you may expect in a pre workout (Beta-Alanine, L-Citrulline, etc.)
Doesn’t mix well with water and tends to be gritty
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What Sweeteners are Usually Used for Pre-Workouts?
Artificial
Aspartame
One of the most common artificial sweeteners used both in pre workouts and diet sodas is aspartame. It is 200 times sweeter than sucrose, which means that you need a very small amount to give a sweet taste. While some are concerned about its safety it has been studied hundreds of times and determined to be safe for human consumption, especially in those small dosages that a person uses with pre-workout complexes. However, individuals with the rare genetic disorder phenylketonuria (PKU) should avoid aspartame, as their bodies cannot break down the amino acid phenylalanine, which is one of the components of aspartame.
Acesulfame-Potassium
Similar to saccharin, Acesulfame-Potassium is an artificial sweetener 150-200 times sweeter than sugar. It is commonly used alongside aspartame as it enhances and sustains the sweet taste of foods flavored by other artificial sweeteners. It was approved by the FDA in 1988, and is regularly tested for safety.
Sucralose
Another very common sugar substitute is sucralose, often known by the brand name Splenda. Splenda is chemically incredibly similar to sugar, it is altered slightly so that the body cannot digest and absorb it to use as energy. This is done by replacing hydroxyl groups in the molecule with chlorine atoms. It was once promoted as being a “natural” sweetener, but since it does not occur in nature, this has since been disproven. If you’re looking to avoid this artificial sweetener, there are plenty of options available for a sucralose free pre workout.
Natural
Stevia
Stevia is an herb native to South America that is 200 times sweeter than sugar. The use of stevia as a sweetener does not add extra calories to the product. Despite its sweetness, stevia flavored products are often associated with a slightly metallic aftertaste. With this being said, stevia is one of the most popular and widely used natural sugar substitutes on the market. Stevia leaf extract is used as a sweetener in the Genius Pre Workout featured on our list.
Rice Syrup
Rice syrup (as well as other syrups derived from plant foods) are common sweeteners used in a multitude of food products. In recent years, organic rice syrup has become a popular alternative to high fructose corn syrup, which is a much more highly processed product. It's worth considering the extra calories this sweetener adds. Rice Syrup is used as a sweetener specifically in the Organic Muscle Superfood pre workout on our list.
Benefits of Using Pre Workout without Artificial Sweeteners
If You’re Worried About Safety
Approved artificial sweeteners are completely safe for human consumption but if you have some concern that consuming artificial sweeteners daily will lead to increased risk of disease, you have a good set of supplements without artificial sweeteners.
Improved Flavor
This point is ultimately a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer the taste of natural sweeteners over their artificial counterparts. Especially with pre workouts, artificially sweetened drinks will often have peculiar aftertastes that may be off putting to some. Drinks flavored with rice syrup, for example, will likely have more familiar tastes leading to a more enjoyable experience overall.
How to Find the Best Pre Workout Without Artificial Sweeteners?
Stimulation
With any pre workout, regardless of flavoring, stimulation levels are one of the most important factors to consider while making a decision. Everybody has different caffeine sensitivity, so be sure to understand what level of stimulation you want before making a decision. With caffeine levels on our list ranging from 0mg to 200mg, there’s a wide range of stimulant levels to choose from. Especially if you’re a young teenager, choosing a stimulant free option may be the best choice for you.
Taste/Flavor
When it comes to choosing a pre workout without artificial sweeteners, taste plays a huge part in finding a product that’s right for you. These supplements may have a different taste from what you’re used to, especially if you frequently consume artificially flavored supplements. Unfortunately, there’s no way to know exactly what a pre workout tastes like without trying it, so you may need to try out a few different options before finding a flavor you really enjoy.
Nutrition Label Transparency
Another important factor when considering supplements free of artificial sweeteners is their nutrition label transparency. It’s always worth double checking the ingredients list to see if the brand has snuck in any artificial flavorings, even if they’ve claimed to be free of these ingredients. On top of this, nutrition label transparency is important to consider when deciding if a pre workout has the ingredients you’re looking for at effective doses. After all, what’s the point of taking a pre workout if it doesn’t give you the effects you’re looking for.
Value for Money
Finally, make sure the pre workout you’re buying is giving you solid value for the money you’re spending. Pre workout supplements can be very expensive, but if they provide the exact effects you’re looking for complete with a good taste, they are some of the most worthwhile supplements you can buy. Still, there are plenty of pre-workouts on the market that have a high price tag for ingredient dosages that are well below what’s effective. Things to look out for are how many servings you’re getting per container, and what the ingredient doses look like as well.
FAQ
Do Pre Workouts Have Artificial Sweeteners
Yes, many pre workouts do contain artificial sweeteners such as sucralose, and aspartame. However, there are many pre workouts available that do not contain any artificial sweeteners, which is what this list is focusing on.
What Can I Replace My Pre Workout With?
It depends what you’re using it for. If you’re primarily using pre workout for a hit of caffeine, then replacing it with coffee, tea, or energy drinks may be a good choice. If you’re looking for specific ingredients, such as creatine, you could always supplement with those individually. However, for the optimal balance of all these things, it’s tough to beat a well formulated pre workout supplement.
Conclusion
Choosing a pre-workout complex without artificial sweeteners may be a good option for those with sensitivities to these additives, concerns about their long-term health effects, or a preference for more natural ingredients. You absolutely don’t need artificial sweeteners to have a great pre workout, and this is proven by all the supplements on our list. Our pick for the overall best pre workout without artificial sweeteners is Transparent Labs Lean Pre Workout.
What’s your go-to pre workout? Have you tried any of the supplements on our list? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
References:
- Artificial Sweeteners // Uab: https://www.uab.edu/shp /nutritiontrends/recipes-food-facts /food-facts/artificial-sweeteners
- Acesulfame-K // Chemistry: http://chemistry.elmhurst.edu/ vchembook /549acesulfame.html
- Structuring sweetness: What makes Stevia so sweet? // Wustl: https://source.wustl.edu/2019/06 /structuring-sweetness-what-makes-stevia-so-sweet/
FAQs
7 Best Pre Workouts Without Artificial Sweeteners in 2023? ›
The main concern with current pre-workout products is that they might contain dangerous ingredients or stimulants. While this is true for many products there are still some options regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Despite this, the FDA has minimal control over supplements like pre-workout.
Are any pre workouts FDA approved? ›The main concern with current pre-workout products is that they might contain dangerous ingredients or stimulants. While this is true for many products there are still some options regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Despite this, the FDA has minimal control over supplements like pre-workout.
Is there a pre-workout that isn't bad for you? ›Creatine is a popular amino acid found in pre-workout supplements. Studies have found that creatine can increase energy during short, high-intensity workouts as well as aid in the recovery of muscle damage from those workouts. Research shows creatine is a relatively safe supplement for healthy adults.
What ingredients should I avoid in pre-workout? ›- High Dose Caffeine. ...
- Artificial Colors or Flavors. ...
- Proprietary Blends. ...
- Artificial Sweeteners. ...
- Under-Dosed Ingredients. ...
- Non-Science Backed Formulas. ...
- Fillers And Unnecessary Pre-Workout Ingredients.
“Most pre-workout mixes are known to contain more than 200 milligrams of caffeine, the equivalent of two cups of coffee, which can improve energy levels but also increase the risk of high blood pressure, arrhythmias, and potentially a heart attack in patients with severe coronary disease.”
Is bucked up FDA approved? ›Bucked Up pre-workouts all contain ingredients that have been studied and approved as safe for use by the FDA. Healthy individuals should see minimal side effects from Bucked Up Pre-Workouts.
Is C4 a safe pre-workout? ›C4 Pre-Workout has no serious side effects. However, you may experience some trouble sleeping if you take it in the evening due to its caffeine content. Beta-alanine in C4 Pre-Workout may cause tingling or itching on the face and hands. Taking C4 Pre-Workout with food can help minimize this side effect.
What pre-workout was recalled? ›Pre-Workout Powder 'Craze' Pulled From Shelves After Traces of Methamphetamine Found Inside. On Tuesday, the manufacturers of the pre-workout supplement “Craze,” Driven Sports, said that they have suspended all production and sales of the product, after recent testing has revealed amphetamine-like ingredients inside.
Is bucked up worth it? ›Bucked Up Pre Workout is an excellent choice for those searching for a safe, efficient, and reasonably priced pre-workout supplement. Its ingredients are easy to understand and have been scientifically tested. So give Bucked Up Pre Workout a try if you're searching for a pre-workout that actually works!
Which pre-workout is best for you? ›- Best for increasing muscle mass: Transparent Labs Preseries Bulk.
- Best for a more high-intensity workout: MyProtein THE Pre-Workout.
- Best for slowing protein breakdown in muscle tissue: Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged.
- Best for muscle recovery: Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy RTD.
Who should not take pre-workout? ›
Pre workout supplements can cause skin reactions because of the stimulants they contain. This can be dangerous for people with cardiovascular conditions, and it can also lead to a number of other health problems. The stimulants in pre workout supplements can cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate.
What damage can pre-workout cause? ›- Jitters and anxiety. Because stimulants contain stimulants, some people may experience jitters and anxiety. ...
- Increased heart rate. ...
- Digestive upset. ...
- Dehydration. ...
- Increased risk of muscle cramps. ...
- Diarrhea. ...
- Headaches. ...
- Increased water retention.
Creatine Monohydrate
Creatine monohydrate is one of the most common and more important ingredients in pre-workout, and you'll find it in almost all brands. Creatine monohydrate improves strength, helps build lean muscle and aids in recovery.
The most efficient way to get a muscle pump is to lift weights, specifically at high volumes (more reps at moderate loads). The repeated contractions and extensions of your muscle fibers during weightlifting makes it easy for fluids to enter your muscle cells.
What is the best drink after a workout? ›Plain water is a great choice to replace lost fluids after moderate exercise. But other options, such as milk or tart-cherry juice, may offer additional benefits after high-intensity workouts.
What are two food types to avoid pre-workout? ›- Fibre-filled foods. ...
- Fizzy drinks. ...
- Nuts. ...
- Spicy foods. ...
- Cruciferous vegetables. ...
- Refined sugar. ...
- Dairy. ...
- Avocado.
Though the ingredients may not be dangerous, they may come in such high levels that routine use begins to hurt your ability to perform naturally. If you think you're becoming dependent on your pre workout, taper off and give your body a break.
When should you not take pre-workout? ›As mentioned, you should drink your pre-workout 20-30 minutes before training and make sure you don't consume your pre-session energy boost within 4 hours of bedtime, as this could affect your ability to sleep.
Do pre workouts raise blood pressure? ›Consuming high doses of caffeine from pre-workout supplements, on top of your normal daily intake of caffeine in coffee, soda, or other sources, can lead to a number of heart-related side effects, including increased blood pressure (hypertension), which can raise your risk of a heart attack.
Can I take pre-workout if I have high blood pressure? ›If your doctor told you that you have high blood pressure, you should stay away from pre-workout supplements that have stimulants altogether. Another note of caution to consider is that some pre-workout supplements may need some trial and error sessions taken to see what works for you.
Is dry scooping pre-workout better than mixing? ›
Is dry scooping more effective than mixing? Dry scooping may allow the high amounts of caffeine in pre-workout to enter your system faster than it would if consumed with water as intended. However, the potential health risks of dry scooping far outweigh the negligible benefits.
Why did the army ban Bucked Up? ›see less Did you know that the supplement brand Bucked Up may cause or contribute to a positive urinalysis result? This product may contain methandienone, an anabolic steroid, and IGF-1, which are prohibited substances by DoD.
Is deer antler a steroid? ›Deer antler velvet is not a steroid, but a dietary supplement. Unlike anabolic androgenic steroids, deer antler velvet is not synthetic testosterone. It is a completely natural substance and a whole food.
Does Bucked Up have artificial sweeteners? ›BUCKED UP® NON-STIM pre workout is loaded with scientifically backed ingredients, at clinically effective dosages. Also includes all natural flavoring and no artificial sweeteners or coloring. BUCKED UP® is a game-changer and doesn't use proprietary blends.
When should you not take C4? ›Cellucor C4 is unsuitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women. People on medication for erectile dysfunction and those on nitrates for chest pain should avoid taking this supplement.
Is it OK to take C4 everyday? ›Can you take C4 Pre-Workout every day? Cellucor states that C4 Pre-Workout is suitable for daily use.
What are the cons of C4? ›There are also negative reviews. Some say they've experienced jitters, itching (probably from beta-alanine), and headaches (probably from beta-alanine) when they first started using the pre-workout. Some also complain about C4 not being effective.
What pre-workout was banned? ›But then came 2013, the year the FDA banned all DMAA-containing pre-workouts. And ever since, such supplements have been illegal.
What famous pre-workout got banned? ›Herolean Fat Burner contains the illegal pre-workout stimulant DMAA and DMHA. It's one of the strongest fat burners available and is a potent DMAA fat burner. A rare combination of DMAA and DMHA makes Herolean one of the most powerful fat burner thermogenic pre-workouts available on the market.
What causes crash after pre-workout? ›A lot of people crash after taking extremely high doses of caffeine (like you find in most pre-workout mixes), because they temporarily restrict your body's production of a molecule called adenosine (which makes you feel sleepy) and amp up its output of adrenaline and dopamine (which make you feel energized).
Does Bucked Up affect testosterone? ›
The use of Deer Antler Spray leads to increased levels of of IGF1, which also leads to increased levels of testosterone. You don't need performance enhancing drugs when Deer Antler Spray can naturally boost testosterone, which is one of the most widely used treatments for sexual disorders.
Does Bucked Up have testosterone? ›We offer a selection of testosterone boosters and supplements for men who want to feel like their best selves!
Why does Bucked Up use deer antler? ›BENEFITS OF DEER ANTLER SPRAY™ by DAS LABS
Deer Antler Spray by DAS Labs is often used by athletes who to help heal cartilage and tendon injuries more quickly and boosts strength and endurance. Deer Antler Spray has many benefits and everyone can benefit from using our bioavailable spray.
- Vitargo Fruit Punch Pre Workout. ...
- Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite. ...
- I Am Motiv 8 Performance Burn Pre Workout. ...
- UMZU Zuum Pre Workout. ...
- Jay Cutler Prevail Pre Workout. ...
- AX Athlean-X Base Stack Pre Workout. ...
- Outwork Nutrition Pre Workout. ...
- Legion The Pre-Workout Energy & Performance Stack.
In summary, pre-workout supplements are better for working out because they contain ingredients that are meant to take your training to the next level. Opposed to energy drinks, whose main purpose is to boost energy and improve focus.
Is there a better pre-workout than caffeine? ›Both coffee and pre-workout can give you a boost of energy. This is because both usually contain caffeine. However, pre-workout, unlike coffee, contains beneficial amino acids. These amino acids help keep muscle fatigue at bay while increasing blood flow.
Why shouldn't you dry scoop pre-workout? ›Why is Dry Scooping Dangerous? Dry scooping may trigger health problems ranging from trouble breathing to a heart attack, even among young, healthy people. Some people who consume a dry scoop of pre-workout mix may accidentally inhale some of the powder, which isn't intended to be swallowed dry.
Is it bad to dry scoop pre-workout? ›The Bottom Line. Pre-workout supplements can contain caffeine and other ingredients which can be poisonous when taken in large amounts. Dry scooping, or consumption of undiluted pre-workout powder, can be life-threatening.
What are the side effects of the bucked up? ›Other potential side effects from using Bucked Up Pre-Workout include anxiety, headaches and insomnia from the caffeine. These usually only occur if consuming other stimulants, such as coffee, in addition to your pre-workout.
Can C4 cause kidney problems? ›Our results showed that a higher level of serum C4 was significantly associated with a higher risk of renal function progression events, which was defined as a 30% decline in the renal function or ESRD, regardless of other confounders.
What are the symptoms of too much pre-workout? ›
Taking too much pre workout can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure, paraesthesia, water retention, and digestive upset, so limiting your dose is advised.
Can pre-workout cause hair loss? ›Pre-workout supplements are unlikely to cause hair loss on their own. However, in people who are genetically predisposed to male pattern baldness or have hormonal imbalances, some pre-workout supplement ingredients, such as DHEA and testosterone boosters, can cause hair loss.
Is any preworkout healthy? ›Most pre-workouts are considered safe for healthy adults, but they aren't essential for health or performance ( 1 ). So while they aren't necessarily bad for you, they aren't especially good for you either.
Which ingredient in pre-workout gives a pump? ›Pump-focused pre-workout supplements contain a blend of ingredients meant to stimulate increased blood and oxygen flow to working muscles during exercise. The main ingredients to look for include L-citrulline, arginine, and betaine in research-backed doses of 6–8 grams, 3–6 grams, and 2.5 grams, respectively.
What is the most important ingredients in pre-workout? ›- L-Citrulline (9 grams)
- Caffeine (300 mg)
- Creatine (5g)
- Beta Alanine (3g)
- Electrolytes (300mg sodium, 100mg magnesium, 100mg potassium)
The best things to eat 30 minutes before a workout include oats, protein shakes, bananas, whole grains, yogurt, fresh fruit, and more. An ideal pre-workout meal should be low in fat, moderate in protein, and high in complex carbs.
Does salt give you a bigger pump? ›A lot of strength and power is intracellular water retention and sodium will help you retain water better. Get better pumps! The same way that sodium helps you to contract your muscles, it'll also help to flood your muscles with more water, meaning you get much better pumps in the gym.
Why salt before workout? ›Preloading Salt Guidelines: Taking Salt Before Your Workout
Salt is thought to help improve performance by helping the body retain water. In addition, salt can help to regulate blood pressure and improve blood flow. As a result, it is believed that salt can help to improve exercise performance.
While water is the go-to drink for everyone before, during and after physical activity, enhanced water, sports drinks, coconut water, chocolate milk and tart cherry juice also have value.
What not to drink after workout? ›- Soda. Getty Images. You may think you can get away with a little bit of the bubbly stuff (you did just burn all those calories, after all) but cracking open a can is a really bad idea. ...
- Sugary sports drinks. Fotostoker/Shutterstock. ...
- Booze. Mitch Mandel. ...
- Caffeine. Shutterstock.
What is the best food to eat after a workout to build muscle? ›
After a workout, you should be getting a healthy balance of protein and carbohydrates. Great post-workout protein sources include lean meat, like fish and chicken, and grains like quinoa. Include additional vitamins and nutrients in your post-workout meals with avocados and leafy greens.
What is a good healthy pre-workout snack? ›- Whole-wheat toast with nut butter.
- Oatmeal with fresh fruit.
- Low-fat yogurt with berries.
- Whole-grain crackers with cheese.
- Low-sugar cereal with milk.
- Fruit and vegetable smoothie.
For the best results, use pre-workout 3-4 times a week. Your body will become tolerant to caffeine over time, and you may also mentially become too dependent on pre-workout if you use it every day, so it's recommended for workouts where you need more of a push.
What happens if you take pre-workout every workout? ›Taking pre-workout for every workout, or even when you don't work out, will eventually decrease the positive benefits that you once enjoyed so much as your body will become acclimated to it. Further, you can put yourself at risk of using pre-workout products as a crutch rather than a booster.
Who should avoid pre-workout? ›Additionally, people with health conditions, such as diabetes, insomnia, anxiety, or heart conditions, may wish to consider how the ingredients of pre-workouts may affect them and seek medical advice before taking these products.
How long does pre-workout increase blood pressure? ›Most pre-workout effects last at least 2 hours. This varies by ingredient. For example, the increased blood flow from arginine may wear off in 1–2 hours, while the energy boost you may get from caffeine can take 6 hours or more to wear off.
Can pre-workout be healthy? ›Benefits of pre-workout
“It stimulates the body's central nervous system, improves reaction time and can reduce fatigue.” Taking a pre-workout can also: Give you extra energy for your workout. Improve your exercise performance.
Can you take C4 Pre-Workout every day? Cellucor states that C4 Pre-Workout is suitable for daily use.
How do you know if pre-workout is safe? ›- Date On the Label. Most supplements provide an expiration date on the label. ...
- Visible Mold. Another big red flag is mold. ...
- Color. While performing your visual inspection, take note of the color of the pre-workout powder. ...
- Consistency. ...
- Smell. ...
- Taste. ...
- Upset Stomach. ...
- Performance Decrease.
In summary, pre-workout supplements are better for working out because they contain ingredients that are meant to take your training to the next level. Opposed to energy drinks, whose main purpose is to boost energy and improve focus.
Is pre-workout safe long term? ›
Evidence suggests that for healthy people, consuming pre-workout is generally safe and does not appear to lead to any medical issues. However, some individuals may still experience side effects.
What is the banned ingredient C4? ›The drink, called Cellucor C4 Extreme, contains a banned substance called Synephrine HCL, a potent adrenergic stimulator. According to bodybuilding.com, Synephrine HCL, “augments energy levels and ATP synthesis” and is structurally similar to Ephedra.
What's in C4 that makes you itch? ›Why does this happen? This itchiness or tingling skin is caused by an ingredient called Beta-Alanine. Pre-workout products which feature this ingredient, especially in doses higher than 2g per serve, will most likely cause this sensation. This is due to Beta-Alanine causing acute paresthesia.
Is C4 healthier than Red Bull? ›If you enjoy carbonated energy drinks and want a healthier alternative to Red Bull that still packs a punch, the Cellucor C4 Energy Carbonated energy drinks are zero-calorie alternatives that provide 200 milligrams of caffeine per can, or a little more than a strong cup of coffee from Starbucks.
Is C4 FDA approved? ›Yes C4 Original is FDA & TGA approved with no banned substances added.
When should I stop taking pre-workout? ›If you continue to take pre-workout on a regular basis, your body can build up a tolerance to its effects, which is why Lovell advises cycling the supplement, or coming off it for six to eight weeks at a time to give your body a chance to reset.
Does pre-workout raise blood pressure? ›Consuming high doses of caffeine from pre-workout supplements, on top of your normal daily intake of caffeine in coffee, soda, or other sources, can lead to a number of heart-related side effects, including increased blood pressure (hypertension), which can raise your risk of a heart attack.