The best pre- and post-workout drinks
Pre workout: coffee -
Coffee contains caffeine, which is a stimulant that reduces fatigue and increases energy levels, making it a great pre-workout drink.
Pre workout: green tea - In addition, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) in green tea may also help increase your metabolism, potentially aiding fat loss.
Pre workout: beetroot juice -
Beetroot contains dietary nitrate, making it a great alternative to nitric oxide (NO) pre-workout supplements.
Pre workout: watermelon juice -
Watermelon contains the amino acid citrulline, which also increases NO levels, leading to increased blood flow and lower blood pressure.
Post workout: milk -
Milk may have lost some popularity as a healthy drink, but it contains a good balance of protein, carbs, and fats.
Post workout: chocolate milk -
Milk is a great source of protein, but chocolate contains an even better ratio of carbs to protein.
Post workout: coconut water - Unlike sports drinks, coconut water doesn’t contain artificial ingredients, but it will equally provide your body with much-needed chloride, sodium, and potassium.
Post workout: tart cherry juice -
Tart cherry juice is packed with antioxidants. More specifically, phytochemicals such as anthocyanins, flavonoids, and flavonols, among others.
Post workout: iced tea -
Iced tea is not only refreshing, but the catechins and tannins have an antioxidant effect that can help reduce free radical damage.
Post workout: iced tea -
Iced tea may also stimulate osteoblast activity (bone forming), which means that it’s also good for your bone health.
Post workout: kombucha -
This fermented drink is made from water, tea, sugar, yeast, and bacteria, providing probiotic benefits as well as hydrating you.
Post workout: protein shake - Whey protein, in particular, has a fast absorption rate, when compared to slow-digesting proteins such as casein.
Post workout: electrolyte sports drinks - Vigorous exercise can easily deplete our bodies, and these drinks work great in the presence of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
Post workout: vegetable juice -
Veggies are not just good for your overall health. They can also work wonders for post-workout recovery.
Post workout: orange juice -
Good ol’ OJ also has a place in post-workout nutrition. Rich in vitamin C and carbohydrates, it will help you recover after exercise.
Post workout: orange juice -
A 2019 study found that “a single serving of 100% OJ provides a palatable, thirst quenching option that will not induce GI distress.”