Why You Should Drink Milk After a Workout

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We bring energy drinks packed with electrolytes and sugar to help us recover from out workout and replenish our bodies. But a new study reveals that gym-goers should be bringing a different drink to help them recover after they exercise: Milk.

Mandy Oaklander from Time highlighted the study in a recent article that was published in the journal of Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism. The goal of the research was to “compare the rehydration potential of a carbohydrate-electrolyte beverage with several varieties of milk following exercise-induced fluid losses.”

The study took 15 men and subjected them to four rounds of cycling on separate days, during which time their bodies sweated-out salt and water. To replenish the participants, after each workout they received either cow’s milk, soy milk, a milk-based meal supplement, or Powerade. The researchers then measured their blood and urine for levels of hydration and nutrient replenishment.

Out of all the drinks, milk allowed exercisers to retain the most fluid, whereas milk-based products came in second—they were all able to rehydrate better than Powerade. While the milk and milk-based products won out for best post-workout drink, it received no prizes from participants for taste. The men reported soy milk being the least favorable in terms of flavor and Powerade being the most pleasant.

If fitness enthusiasts are willing to look past the taste, they may want to give thought to carrying a cold bottle of milk, almond milk, or soy milk to their next workout session.