Drink This!

Health Magazine
Jan/Feb 2010

Drink This!

by Jenny Hadfield

When I Run I…

~Feel sluggish and tired~

If this is you, sip a cup of green tea 20 to 30 minutes before you run. The caffeine will pep you up and power you through to the last step, and its antioxidants may help with endurance, too.

~Always get a side stitch~

…try coconut water; it’s chock-full of cramp-preventing potassium (15 times that of most sports drinks) and has less than 50 calories per cup. Try 8 oz. before or during your run to stay pain-free.

~Get really sore the next day~

…try chocolate milk. With its perfect ratio of carbs to protein {plus the calcium}, chocolate milk is an excellent way to help your muscles recover postworkout. Drink a cup within 30 mins of finishing a long run, when muscles are most receptive.

~Sweat a lot~

…try a sports drink, with body-replenishing sugars and electrolytes. This is the best way to stay hydrated. Choose one that’s free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Sip 4 to 6 oz. every 15 to 20 mins during your workout.