Training and competition are very important to all of us but recovery is also an essential part of improving our performances. Good nutrition can play a key role in helping us recover from tough workouts by replenishing our energy stores quickly, efficiently and ensuring our muscles have enough protein to repair themselves and become stronger.
There are lots of products and formulas out there on the market for the specific purpose of refuelling the body after training but one of the best and cheapest is actually low fat chocolate milk. It replenishes the glycogen stores in the muscles, speeds up the repairing of the muscles and rehydrates us by providing fluid and electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. Such minerals are vital to body function and they are collectively lost during exercise through sweating.
The best post-workout nutrition is the product which has the perfect ratio of carbohydrate to protein which allows tired muscles to recover quickly. Low fat chocolate milk has the ratio (about 3:1) which is ideal for recovering from exercise. The protein found in low fat chocolate milk is of a high quality which helps to tone up our muscles more efficiently than when just a carbohydrate drink is consumed.
Aside from its main benefits regarding recovery and rehydration, low fat chocolate milk also contains some useful vitamins and minerals. It is a source of calcium and vitamin D which can help keep bones strong and also protect against stress fractures. B vitamins can also help with energy metabolism and vitamin A can help with maintaining good immune health.
Not only is it simple and inexpensive, it is scientifically proven to help return the body to a recovered state making sure you are ready for your next training session or competition. Lots of studies have already proven its benefits and even its effectiveness compared to specialised sports electrolyte drinks or protein recovery drinks. And if that wasn’t enough, it tastes great!
Please feel free to contact the G4 Didsbury Clinic to speak to a member of our diet & nutrition team for any questions that you may have or if you wish to arrange a consultation to discuss your diet, nutrition and lifestyle.