This combination of nutrients helps your muscles repair and grow stronger, she says.
Post-workout drinks are the easiestand quickestway to do so.
But with all the different options available, which do you choose?
Here, three experts break down the most popular post-workout drinks.
The most popular post-workout drinks, ranked from best to worst
1.
Chocolate milk
Is there a better post-workout reward than chocolate milk?
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According to the experts, its not just the best tastingits also the best option.
Chocolate milk is a great post-workout beverage, as it combines high-quality protein and carbohydrates.
Both protein and carbohydrates are important to help refuel and replenish your body after a workout.
Protein shake
Next up, protein shakes, which basically have everything your body needs after a sweat sesh.
Modell says its just important to verify the one youre choosing has all the right elements.
double-check your protein shake incorporates all the macronutrients: protein, carbs, and fat.
Especially protein when the drink is used as a recovery aid, she says.
Many store bought protein shakes tend to be full of additives.
Orange juice
Orange just isnt just a breakfast drink.
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Its also a great choice post-workout, no matter what time of the day your sweat session is.
Many people dont know about all the nutrients you get from 100 percent orange juice.
Its important to replace electrolytes after a workoutand sometimes during, depending on the intensity of the workout.
Modell also says another perk of orange juice is that its hydrating and contains quick-digesting carbohydrates.
You could do this in a smoothie or shaker bottlewhichever method you prefer.
After intense exercise, you need a beverage that contains electrolytes.
You really need to be taking in fuel thats going to help your muscles repair themselves.
So in addition to electrolytes, you need protein and carbs, she says.
These ingredients can lead to gastrointestinal distress, bloating, headaches, and other issues, she says.
Coconut water
Coconut water isnt just refreshing.
It also contains electrolytes, like magnesium and potassium, says Modell.
Its not ideal for athletes who do high-intensity workouts because its low in sodium.
Overall, it is not a miracle post-workout drink, but itishydrating and refreshing, she says.
Asmall research studyalso showed drinking beetroot juice increases plasma nitrate levels and boosts physical performance, she says.
Add it into your shakes and smoothies instead of drinking it plain.
Cherry juice
There are some benefits to drinking cherry juice post-workout.
Research shows that drinking Montmorency cherry juice after a workout canhelp you recover after intense exercise.
The juice can help decrease muscle damage and reduce inflammation, says Gorin.
But its still lacking compared to the other options.
You still need to take in the proper amount of carbs and protein post-workout.
That being said, consuming caffeine pre-workout may improve your performance.
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