Every athlete knows the importance of eating healthy before a workout, but what about after? Refueling after a workout or a long run is important. Your body has worked hard for you and it’s time to reward it by staying hydrated and giving yourself an extra boost of energy.
What you choose as a post-workout drink may have an even bigger effect on your body than you realize. Your post-workout beverage actually can affect your muscle soreness and help you avoid injury.
Are you trying to figure out what to drink after a workout? if yes, then keep reading to check out these different options to help you recover fast.
Chocolate Milk
This sweet treat may come as a surprise to be one of the best recovery drinks. Chocolate milk is ideal because of its carb-to-protein ratio. Not to mention it also contains calcium, potassium, magnesium, and sodium which are all key ingredients to aiding your recovery.
These natural electrolytes make chocolate milk extremely hydrating. With surprisingly high protein and nutrient levels, this is a great alternative to expensive energy drinks.
Coconut Water
Coconut water is one of the most hydrating drinks you can get. It is naturally high in antioxidants, potassium, and magnesium which can help to reduce those pesky post-workout cramps.
Coconut water is ideal for restoring the electrolyte balance in your body and helping you bounce back from a tough workout.
Protein Shake
Protein shakes are often the top go-to after a trip to the gym and for good reason. Not only are they great because you can pack them full of healthy ingredients but they are also the perfect way to make sure you are getting enough protein.
Shakes provide your body with a range of helpful nutrients to ensure your body gets what it needs.
Watermelon Juice
It’s well known that hydration is a key factor is bouncing back from a workout. Watermelon juice works to do just that.
Being rich in amino acids watermelon also has been shown to reduce muscle soreness. It works to break down built-up lactic acid, increase blood flow, and even boost metabolism.
Beet Juice
Although not always the most desirable in taste, beet juice packs a punch. This is another natural drink with studies linking it to faster muscle recovery and inflammation reduction.
Beet juice is high in potassium, vitamin A, and helps to improve your stamina by increasing the amount of oxygen absorbed in your red blood cells. Not only is beet juice good as a post-workout beverage, but it is also an all-around healthy drink to add to your diet.
What To Drink After A Workout
Now that you know what to drink after a workout, the next step is trying these drinks and finding what you like best. Maybe you love chocolate milk and choose to make this your go-to post-workout beverage.
Or maybe you rotate between these five to get all of the benefits. No matter what you do, just make sure you are giving your body what it needs after you hit the gym.
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