Post workout recovery: Having chocolate milk post tough workouts

After a long and grueling workout, grabbing a drink to rehydrate and recover is a no brainer. But what should you choose?

Research shows that milk – both white and chocolate -- can be just as beneficial for the body as some sport drinks. That’s because milk contains four things your body needs after a workout, specifically:

• Carbohydrates: Carbs fuel activity and are the No. 1 source of energy for athletes, plus they help refuel your muscles.*
• Protein: Having high-quality protein after a workout can help rebuild and repair your muscles. But not all proteins are equal. High-quality proteins found in foods like low-fat or fat-free milk, yogurt, cheese, eggs and meats can help you get all of the essential amino acids your body needs to build and maintain your muscles and help your body work properly.
• Fluids & Electrolytes: When you work out, several minerals can be lost in your sweat including sodium, chloride and potassium. Rehydrating with milk can help replenish your body’s fluids and electrolytes lost in your sweat. 

Plus, milk can offer nutrient benefits when compared to other options. According to research, low-fat and fat-free milk offers a more nutrient-rich alternative to traditional sports drinks.

For example, one 8-ounce serving of low-fat and fat-free milk also provides:

• 20% DV phosphorus, which helps build and maintain strong bones and teeth, and supports tissue growth.
• 35% DV riboflavin, which helps your body use carbohydrates, fats and protein for fuel.
• 20% DV pantothenic acid (i.e., vitamin B5), which helps similarly to riboflavin.

And more! Check out this infographic to learn more about the nutrients in milk. 

The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. DVs are based on a caloric intake of 2,000 calories.

*An 8-ounce serving of low-fat chocolate milk contains 24.7 grams of carbohydrate.