Recovery Drinks
 

I recently bought some stuff to use during my run and other intense workouts, two of the things being clif shot blocks and Gu energy gel but what I really want is a recovery drink. I found two options one of them is Clif recovery and Gu recovery. I was wondering if anyone had any other recommendations ? What do you drink or eat to recover from long runs or intense workouts ?

I prefer a whole-foods based nutrition plan to support my exercise (and I don't eat sugar). After my morning workouts I have chocolate milk (made from 16 oz nonfat milk, 1.25 oz good cocoa, and 2 packets of Splenda blended), 2 scrambled eggs, and 2 Clementines. This gives me plenty of good carbs, plenty of protein, and keeps me full until lunchtime.

After evening workouts I generally just eat whatever we're having for dinner--last night that was tuna steaks and cabbage salad. Plus I had some dried cherries and some whole-wheat toast.

I use good old fashion chocolate milk. It has the 4:1 carb protein ratio that you need. The only difference between chocolate milk and recovery drinks (other than the price) is the recovery drinks have added vitamins and stuff to give you energy.

I use GU during a run, especially longer than about 7 or 8 miles. My tummy is a little angry during and after strenuous exercise, but it tolerates GU ok.

I have tried some recovery drinks but I don't really like them and don't find them satisfying. Since I already count calories, I just have a snack of 200-ish calories that includes protein and carbs, or I eat dinner or breakfast, which is either a huge salad or oatmeal.