Honey provides energy when exercising for a long time or at high intensity, but is not necessary for short, moderate workouts. After age 50, you should choose foods based on exercise intensity, total diet and the goal of maintaining weight and muscle mass.
Fructose in honey can promote uric acid formation, especially when consuming a lot of sugar. However, eating honey does not necessarily mean that uric acid will definitely increase, because the effect depends on diet, metabolism and kidney function. People with increased uric acid should use honey in moderation and limit other sugar sources.
Do you need to supplement with honey when exercising?
For 30- 60-minute exercise sessions or regular walking, honey is usually unnecessary if you have eaten enough. Only consider it when exercising for a long time, at high intensity or far from meals. More importantly, ensure sufficient protein, energy and water. Dehydration during exercise can cause temporary increase in uric acid; people with kidney disease and heart failure need to follow doctor's instructions.
Use honey when uric acid is high
No need to abstain completely: You can use the appropriate amount, avoid turning honey into a regular source of carbohydrates.
Light or moderate exercise: Usually no honey is needed before or during exercise. If exercising for a long time, it is necessary to calculate the total energy and amount of fructose in the day.
People with gout or prolonged increased uric acid: Should talk to their doctor about diet and treatment, do not arbitrarily stop uric acid suppressants.
Prioritize a general diet: After age 50, you should drink enough water, eat a variety of foods, control free sugar, maintain a reasonable weight and choose an appropriate intensity of exercise.
People with increased uric acid after age 50 do not necessarily have to completely avoid honey. For most regular workouts, honey is not necessary. If you exercise for a long time and need to supplement carbohydrates, the amount should be based on energy needs, total fructose, and health status. Maintaining exercise, hydration, and controlling the overall diet are still more important than focusing on one individual food.
