Still downing a sports drink after a workout? New research suggests there is a healthier alternative and it may surprise you: Milk.
A new study published in the journal
Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism has found that milk has a natural balance of sodium, carbohydrate and protein that helps the body retain fluid, rehydrate, and recover from exercise,
Time.com reports.
The research involved tests of 15 men after a four rounds of cycling on separate days. After each workout, participants had a different beverage: cow’s milk, soy milk, a milk-based meal supplement, or Powerade. Researchers used blood and urine tests to measure hydration and nutrient levels.
The results showed all of the milk-based products were superior to Powerade, in terms of rehydration, and that the milk-based meal supplement was the best at fluid retention.
What’s more, the men who drank milk reported feeling more full — likely due to the protein in milk.
As for plain water, study authors noted that drinking water after exercise actually causes a drop in sodium levels, potentially leading to even more dehydration.
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