Before Olympian Michael Phelps was photographed inhaling, he famously used chocolate milk (actually, Carnation Instant Breakfast) to recharge after strenuous competition. So why chocolate milk? Aren’t drinks specifically made for athletes a better choice? This came to my attention through one of the personal trainers at Peak Performance in Broadview Heights. Apparently, chocolate milk really does a body good – especially after a strenuous, resistance-based workout.
Here’s why: Chocolate milk contains an optimal ratio of carbohydrates to protein (4:1) to help refuel tired muscles. Research has proven this ratio to be most efficient at replenishing muscle glycogen stores. Adding protein to the usual mixture of carbs, liquids and electrolytes hastens muscle recovery. Studies in the last couple years have shown certain proteins and carbohydrates in milk mitigate exercise induced muscle damage. EIMD occurs when protein structures in the muscle break down and reduce muscle performance. When consumed immmediately after resistance-based muscle damaging exercise, milk actually helps preserve more muscle than sports drinks or water. And the sugar molecules in milk seem to be fairly easily absorbed by the gut.
I feel better about the protein packed instant breakfast my son favors most mornings. And after my next workout, I think I’ll try it myself.
Meanwhile, a few golf games are in my near future. Very near. I’ll have more on that next week.
