No matter your level of exercise, staying hydrated after workouts is key. Your muscles rely on water for transporting nutrients throughout your body and replenishing lost energy stores; electrolytes like sodium and potassium help ensure you remain adequately hydrated; but water may not be your only solution – certain beverages offer added benefits such as carbohydrates and proteins that can assist recovery while setting you up for another challenging session.
Carbonated beverages can be an excellent way to manage post-workout recovery for many. Their fizziness can ease stomach discomfort after meals or strenuous workouts while aiding digestion and helping absorb nutrients more rapidly.
But is sparkling water really superior to regular tap water, and which variety should you purchase? Aaptiv interviewed two experts to get their take.
As part of post-workout recovery, carbonated beverages that are clear and contain no sugar may be an ideal option, according to Niket Sonpal, MD, assistant clinical professor at Touro College of Medicine. But these beverages shouldn’t replace water altogether.
“To get the most from any beverage choice, it is best to consume an appropriate amount of fluids for yourself,” advises Sonpal. For instance, casual exercisers might only require water after exercise while athletes who engage in intense training may need carbs and electrolytes in addition to water to restore energy after workouts according to American Council on Exercise recommendations.
After finishing a workout, it is essential that you hydrate as soon as you can. Aiming for two hours is ideal; sipping water or non-carbonated beverages after exercise will have greater beneficial results in future workouts; those who prefer carbonated drinks shouldn’t feel forced to give them up altogether: according to Sonpal, just ensure consuming one bottle of non-carbonated recovery drink immediately upon returning from their run and then sip some carbonated water later on as part of your recovery regime.
If you’re searching for something refreshing to drink after exercise, herbal tea and hibiscus water could be perfect! Both options have low caloric intake while hibiscus tea contains antioxidants to soothe sore muscles after workouts. Plus, for added zest add lemon to your beverage or choose something naturally sweetened such as coconut water hydration drink!