Many people rely on pre-workout supplements before heading to the gym for an extra boost of energy and better workout performance. However, not everyone needs supplements to fuel a workout. For some people, simple foods such as a banana and a small amount of salt can provide useful nutrients before exercise.

But is this combination really beneficial? Here's what experts say.

Why eat a banana before a workout?

Bananas are a convenient source of carbohydrates, which the body can use for energy during exercise. Eating one before a workout may help provide quick fuel, particularly before moderate or intense physical activity.

Bananas also contain potassium, an important electrolyte that plays a role in normal muscle and nerve function.

What does salt add?

Salt provides sodium, another essential electrolyte that the body loses through sweat.

Sodium and potassium both help maintain fluid and electrolyte balance and are involved in normal nerve and muscle function. For people who sweat heavily during exercise, replacing lost sodium and maintaining adequate hydration can be important.

However, more salt does not mean better performance. A large amount of added salt is unnecessary for most people.

Can banana and salt prevent cramps?

Electrolyte balance is important for normal muscle function, but muscle cramps have multiple possible causes. Simply eating a banana with salt cannot guarantee that cramps or fatigue will be prevented.

Adequate hydration, appropriate nutrition, training intensity and individual factors all play a role.

Don't forget about water

Hydration is an important part of workout preparation. Drink enough fluids throughout the day and replace additional fluid lost through heavy sweating.

The amount of water an individual needs varies depending on factors such as body size, weather, activity level and how much they sweat. There is no single water target that is ideal for everyone.

Who should be careful?

People with certain medical conditions may need to monitor their sodium or potassium intake. This can include some people with kidney disease, those undergoing dialysis and people who have been advised to restrict sodium because of high blood pressure or other health conditions.

If you have any such condition, don't deliberately increase your salt or potassium intake without discussing it with your doctor or dietitian.

Is it a replacement for pre-workout supplements?

A banana with a small amount of salt can be a simple pre-workout food for some people, but it isn't a universal replacement for supplements. Most recreational gym-goers can meet their energy and nutritional needs through a balanced diet.

The key is not to look for a magic pre-workout combination. Consistent nutrition, adequate hydration, proper sleep and a well-planned workout routine are far more important for long-term fitness and muscle development.