Chocolate milk shown to be ideal post-workout drink

In a study that was recently published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, a team of scientists found that a favorite childhood beverage may be highly effective in helping individuals get ripped.

Study results showed that participants who drank lowfat chocolate milk after their workouts performed more efficiently, improved overall fitness, burned more fat and gained lean muscle, when compared to individuals who drank sports drinks.

"We may need more research to understand the exact mechanisms, but there's something that chocolate milk naturally has that likely gives it the post-exercise advantage," said lead researcher John L. Ivy, Ph.D.

The University of Austin researchers conducted three studies to see which post-workout beverages were most effective at helping people to build muscle and improve athletic performance. One group drank lowfat chocolate milk, another consumed a high-carbohydrate sports drink and a third subset were given a calorie-free drink.

Authors of the study noted that it is important that individuals consume chocolate milk within two hours after a workout, since this is when the body is recovering from strenuous activity.