Whether you’re a die-hard athlete or simply a weekend gym warrior it’s probably safe to say that you want a delish, tasty and energy reviving beverage post-workout. While most energy drinks are high in sugar and calories, there are some healthier and tastier alternatives for you next post-workout drink!

Photo reprinted with permission from makingthymeforhealth.com and www.healthyaperture.com.

Tomato Juice: New research shows that tomato juice can actually help to speed muscle recovery. Tomatoes are also full of the antioxidant lycopene which helps to reduce cell damage after workouts and exercise. Plus they’re packed with the electrolyte potassium as well as with water, both helping to rehydrate your body

NOTE: Watch out–store bought tomato juice is extremely high in sodium (nearly 1/3 of your daily allotment in just 1 cup) and there is no need to go get that much sodium as most people will easily replace any sodium lost in sweat with normal eating. Try our delish juice recipe below or opt for low-sodium tomato juice.

Chocolate Milk: Who doesn’t love a glass of milk? Chocolate milk replenishes muscles thanks to it’s nutrients and protein and carbohydrates! The levels of sugar and sodium have been found to help boost insulin levels to help retain energy. It does have sugar and sodium, so again be careful to not over consume. If you are watching your weight, this should serve as your post-workout snack, not simply a beverage that you would eat with a snack.

Tart Cherry Juice: The antioxidants in cherries can help cut back inflammation and swelling post-workout. It was also found to aide in faster muscle recovery and decrease muscle soreness. So add tart cherry juice to a smoothie with a banana, ½ cup ice and nonfat yogurt. If you are watching your weight, this should serve as your post-workout snack/meal, not simply a beverage that you would eat with a snack.

Curious why there’s not an energy drink on this list? They contain a ton of sugar–the one thing you don’t want to do after exercising your butt off!

To go along with the new craze of tomato Juice for a post-workout boost – here’s a lightened up recipe from just straight tomato juice – many people don’t like the thickness.

Another bonus? Our Skinny Tomato Watermelon Juice is packed with antioxidants–and with potassium which flushes sodium and bloat, goodbye puffiness :).

Skinny Tomato Watermelon Juice

Serves: 1

Ingredients

½ cup fresh grape tomatoes
¾ cup watermelon, cut in ¼ inch pieces
¼ cup Ice

Directions

Place all ingredients into a blender and set on puree setting. Mix well until all chunks are gone and desired thickness is obtained. Add more ice if needed. Enjoy!

What are some post-workout drinks you’ve tried?

Nutrition Facts: Serving Size: 1 cup: 50 calories, 0 g fat, 0 g saturated fat, 12 g carbohydrate, 1 g protein, 9 g sugar, 2 g fiber, 6 mg sodium